School Garden Coordinator

Job Position Description
The Garden Coordinator leads curriculum-focused outdoor classes and garden-based nutrition workshops. The Garden Coordinator works with teachers as they plan their lessons utilizing the outdoor classroom and models skills that teachers need to feel comfortable using the garden to teach science, history, social studies, cultural studies, math, literacy and other standards in practical real-life applications.

Details:

We are currently hiring for school garden coordinator position(s) on Maui. Positions may be Grow Some Good staff, Department of Education positions, or private school positions depending on school placement.

• 10-24 hours per week depending on position
• HOURS: Varies based on school hours, but typically 7 hours/day between 7:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. up to 5 days/week + prep time
• LOCATION: various schools across island of Maui
• RATE: Varies based on education/experience and placement

Responsibilities

• Work with teachers to develop lessons that support classroom teaching in a range of curriculum areas (science, social studies, mathematics, language arts, etc.).
• Lead garden classes, incorporating both environmental science and nutrition education as they relate to the garden.
• Oversee and coordinate students’ hands-on experiences in the garden (planting, tending, harvesting and cooking).
• Create video lessons as needed for distance learning opportunities.
• Lead safe and efficient maintenance of the garden, coordinate volunteers, support school outreach functions and work with PTA and PCNC (Parent Child Networking Coordinator) and Grow Some
• Good to secure needed supplies.
• Collaborate with Grow Some Good on garden scheduling / maintenance, plan and prepare for garden work activities, co-manage planting schedule, and ensure availability of tools and other necessary materials.
• Establish garden time schedule with curriculum coordinators and teachers.
• Participate in community garden events that bring students, families, teachers and community members together.
• Maintain necessary records of garden use and volunteer activity.

Required Qualifications

• Current Maui Resident
• 4 year college degree with work in agriculture, science, ecology, environmental science, education or related field. Relevant work experience may be substituted for college background.
• 1+ years of facilitation or teaching experience with youth aged 5 – 14.
• Knowledge and experience in growing a variety of edible plants, preferably in tropical climates. Knowledge of topics including urban gardening, botany, biodynamics, aquaponics, indigenous farming techniques. Knowledge in environmental science, health and nutrition, food systems and food access are a plus.
• Ability and willingness to create video lessons as needed for students participating in distance learning. Experience with video editing a plus.
• Ability to establish positive rapport with diverse groups of students and volunteers through written and verbal communications.
• Demonstrated ability to work with diverse populations including youth and adults.
• Ability to organize work plans and work independently.
• In good physical condition with willingness to participate in occasional physical labor in garden setting. Much of day is spent on your feet in outdoor setting. Must be able to lift and carry 25 lbs.
• Should have access to transportation for occasional supplies procurement and delivery, and be able to show proof of insurance for vehicle used.
• May be required to meet Department of Education minimum qualifications for employment and/or complete background check.
• Must be able to access a personal computer and have a cell phone.