Fiddleheads Forest School Substitute Teacher (Intermittent)

Job Description

University of Washington Botanic Gardens has an opportunity for several part-time intermittent hourly Fiddleheads Forest School Substitute Teachers.

University of Washington Botanic Gardens (UWBG) Education Program Mission: Provide meaningful educational experiences that enrich participants connections with plants and the natural world.

Program Overview: The University of Washington Botanic Gardens Youth and Family Education programs serve over 10000 youth ages 2-18 and their families each year through family classes school field trips summer camp and preschool programs. Tucked within the University of Washington Botanic Gardens and the Youth and Family Education Programs is the Fiddleheads Forest School an entirely outdoor preschool for students ages three to six. At the Fiddleheads Forest School we aim to foster a sense of wonder to guide rather than compel and to provide room for possibility rather than attempt to constrain childrens interests to fit within a certain curriculum. Unlike traditional programs at the Forest School our classroom grows and changes along with its students. This dynamic environment offers an unparalleled setting for the development of self-regulation and fundamental appreciation for the natural world. Our unique child-driven curriculum addresses the individual developmental needs of every student. Each day is approached with joy and wonder at the wide world around us.

General Duties/Description: Under general supervision this position will assist the teachers with all aspects of implementing a weekly part-day nature preschool program. During the school year this position will assist teaching classes of up to 14 students with variable shifts between the hours of 8:00AM and 4:30PM while spending the vast majority of that time outdoors exploring the natural world through age-appropriate lessons and activities. Hours and weekly schedule are variable up to 15 hours per week.

Essential Tasks:

• Fill in as a substitute assistant preschool teacher for teachers out on leave

• Co-lead prepared activities for3-6 year oldsthat fulfill the age-appropriate curriculumestablished

• Assist students with established activities using items found in nature that help 3-6 year olds discover and learn from the things that make up the natural world

• Model a healthy relationship with and curiosity for the natural world and acting in a professional and compassionate manner at all times as a representative of the University of Washington

• Ensuring the health safety and well-being of students through site surveys and daily check-ins with students.

• Maintaining clear communications with fellow staff interns students and their families to achieve common goals and avoid potential conflicts

• Preparing cleaning up and maintaining teaching supplies and supporting materials in a well-organized and efficient manner

• Opportunities to teach in other Youth and Family education programs or work in other UWBG visitor services functions

• Other related duties as assigned

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school graduation or equivalent and two years of teaching experience or equivalent education/experience.

Desirable Qualifications:

• At least one year of experience working with early learners in a formal setting.

• Bachelors Degree or formal training in early childhood education environmental education botany horticulture biology community engagement or related areas.

• Creativity flexibility and understanding necessary for working with children parents and staff members.

Conditions of Employment:

• Ability to stand stoop bend and sit for 15-20 minutes at a time.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 pounds.

• Ability to work outdoors in all types of weather.

• Must be able to meet requirements for staff working in a licensed childcare in Washington.

• Current pediatric First Aid and CPR certification required.

Location: University of Washington Botanic Gardens Washington Park Arboretum Seattle WA

Benefits: This position is not benefits eligible.

Compensation Benefits and Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

Pay Range Maximum:

Other Compensation:

Benefits:

Temporary or Regular

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

Union/Bargaining Unit:

About the UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives on our campuses in our state and around the world.

UW employees bring their boundless energy creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier return they enjoy outstanding benefits opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity intellectual excitement artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race color creed religion national origin citizenship sex pregnancy age marital status sexual orientation gender identity or expression genetic information disability or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process contact the Disability Services Office at or .

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.