Overview

This position requires that you become enrolled in AmeriCorps.  If you are selected for this program please be sure to accept AmeriCorps during the SCA offer process.  No travel allowance will be offered for this position even if it is stated on your confirmation of acceptance.

Due to Covid-19, events and trainings are subject to change in response to an increase in the number of cases in the Hudson Valley region. Specific duties aligned with this position may also be subject to change. Such changes include, but are not limited to: trainings being eliminated or held remotely, elimination of large-scale gatherings, reduction of education programs, and a transition to teleworking.

Purpose of the Program:

The mission of The Environmental Cooperative is to expand and coordinate conservation efforts and to strengthen place-based environmental awareness throughout the Hudson Valley by inspiring engagement, supporting current efforts, and developing new opportunities for conservation education, outreach, and research.

The Environmental Cooperative is an outreach and education initiative through Vassar College focusing on conservation efforts locally.  The Cooperative works towards engaging the local and campus community in structured conservation program including volunteer opportunities, environmental education field trips, guided walks, conservation based workshops and other outreach and education events

Community Needs that the Program Serves:

The Environmental Cooperative works closely with the City of Poughkeepsie, surrounding communities and Vassar College to address needs in regards to conservation and environmental education and public engagement. We connect Vassar students with conservation-based volunteer and educational opportunities in the wider community and on campus.

AmeriCorps Member Duties and Responsibilities:

The Education and Outreach Assistant will report to and work closely with the Director of the Environmental Cooperative. They will be responsible for the development and implementation of “Exploring Science” an elementary level field trip based program.  Exploring Science consists of in-school and after school programming.  Exploring Science trains Vassar students to teach K-3rd graders environmental science curriculum both in the classroom and on field trips to the Vassar Farm and Ecological Preserve. The Education and Outreach Assistant will:

  1. Assist with the development of a classroom/schoolyard based curriculum
  2. Assist with the development of after-school programming
  3. Assist with the development of age-appropriate field trips
  4. Teach elementary students participating in the Exploring Science Program
  5. Train Vassar students to teach the Exploring Science curriculum
  6. Develop on-line programming to meet the needs of the Community during the COVID 19 pandemic.

Performance Goals for the AmeriCorps Member:

Goal 1: Work with the Environmental Cooperative Director to develop an environmental science curriculum (“Exploring Science”) that includes classroom visits field trips, after-school and summer programs for local elementary school children

Goal 2: Teach Exploring Science in the Spring and Fall semesters to at least one class at two different Poughkeepsie Schools. Successfully help to train Vassar student to teach the Exploring Science program. Teach summer environmental education programs.

Goal 3: Design and implement environmental workshops, volunteer opportunities and programs for Vassar college and the community

Candidate Qualifications:

  • Valid driver’s license of at least 3 years with a clean driving record.
  • Ability to pass a federal background check.
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills, must have plant and animal identification skills, must be able to work independently,  be organized, creative, must enjoy working with children and the general public.  Experience working with children is highly desirable.
  • Knowledge: Course work or experience in environmental interpretation or education.  Experience or strong interest in educating children and young adults necessary.  Knowledge of classroom behavior management techniques, public school state standards, and lesson plan development desirable.  GIS training a plus.
  • Training: BA/BS in Ecology, Botany, Wildlife Biology, Education, Environmental Science or related field; knowledge of Microsoft and Google suite of applications; valid driver’s license

Benefits:

  • All Hudson Valley Corps members receive a taxable $200/week living allowance
  • Upon successful completion of the term, members receive a taxable Full-time Segal Education Award through AmeriCorps.
  • Student loan forbearance and interest repayments for federal student loan through AmeriCorps.
  • Eligible for free health insurance
  • Eligible for childcare assistance through AmeriCorps