Company description

Hi! We are LACER Afterschool Programs, a non-profit that provides free after-school programs to Middle and High School youth. We are currently at five middle schools and three high schools in Los Angeles: Bancroft Middle, Le Conte Middle, King Middle, Irving Middle, Soto Mayor Middle, Fairfax High, Hollywood High, and Marshall High. 

We are looking for a part-time staff member who is enthusiastic about sharing their love for gardening with Middle School youth and teaching them about the wonders of gardening and environmental stewardship. Their primary goal is to care for the school garden, teach students how to cultivate fruits and vegetables and understand the importance of sustainable practices. position is Gardening Instructor & Coordinator- the instructor would teach at Bancroft Middle School. 15-20 hours a week at $24p/hr.

Job description

Position Summary:

The Middle School Gardening instructor is responsible for leading gardening skills and activities with youth and building/maintaining high environmental principles and values. They are responsible for helping youth beautify and maintain the garden while developing gardening techniques and knowledge. The instructor will provide hands-on opportunities for youth to participate in gardening lessons and will also work on developing inclusive and creative lessons to connect students with nature. A gardening instructor's job is to instill a passion for gardening and environmental conservation in the next generation.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Curriculum Development:
· Design engaging and age-appropriate gardening lessons and activities for middle school students (ages 11-14).
· Integrate science, math, and environmental concepts into gardening lessons to enhance the educational experience when possible.
2. Instruction and Demonstration:
· Lead interactive gardening sessions, providing step-by-step instructions and demonstrations.
· Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment that encourages curiosity and creativity.
3. Garden Maintenance:
· Oversee the care and maintenance of the afterschool program's garden.
· Instruct students in proper gardening techniques, including planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting.
4. Supervision and Safety:
· Ensure the safety and well-being of students during gardening activities.
· Supervise students to maintain a positive and respectful environment.
5. Communication:
· Communicate effectively with students, parents, and Program Director regarding gardening activities and events.
· Provide regular updates on students' progress and accomplishments.
6. Collaboration:
· Collaborate with other afterschool program staff to integrate gardening activities with other educational components. For example, inviting the cooking class to harvest fresh herbs from the garden.
· Coordinate special projects or events related to gardening
Other:
• Be punctual.
• Implement company culture, values, and policies.
• Strong organizational skills. Maintain an organized schedule for students/parents.
• Excellent verbal communication skills. Ability to build rapport with all employees, parents, and students.
• Instructor will work individually and in group settings to develop skills, respect, and sportsmanship among all student participants.
• Instructor will be responsible for the recruitment of new student participants.
• Instructor will be required to uphold all program rules and conduct.
• Handle and prepare incident reports when needed.
• Report all issues to the appropriate staff.
• Have fun and always keep a positive attitude.
• Always maintain a professional attitude.
• Request and pick up supplies when needed.

Organizational Relationships

Under the supervision and direction of the Program Director.

Qualifications:

• Education/Knowledge: Preferred A.A. degree in Agriculture or a related field or currently enrolled in community college. Previous experience in gardening instruction or environmental education. Knowledge of basic gardening principles, plant biology, and/or environmental science. Strong interest in youth development.
• Experience: At least one to two years experience in a non-profit youth organization providing gardening instruction and activities. One to two years’ experience working with youth in a non-profit educational agency or school. (Ages 10-14).
• Skills and Abilities: Must be able to discipline, teach, and encourage youth utilizing positive reinforcement. Lead large groups of students. Be active with youth supervision. Patience, enthusiasm, and a passion for inspiring a love of nature in young learners. MS Word, MS Excel, internet, e-mail.
• Able to maintain professional standards under pressure and time-bound projects. Awareness of team-building activities to nurture a fun/safe learning environment is a plus.

• Required prerequisites before working: Must have current TB test results (every 4 years), CPR/First Aid certification (every 2 years), and Live Scan federal and state fingerprinting (1 time only).

• Physical Requirements: Dexterity of hands and fingers to operate a computer and office equipment; sitting or standing for extended periods; walking to various sites at the assigned location; kneeling and bending, pushing and pulling and reaching to retrieve items; lifting and carrying objects weighing up to 15 pounds; and hearing and speaking to exchange information in person and on the phone.

Compensation

this position is: hourly, $20/hr +

Application instructions

Deadline

March 18, 2024