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Under The Canopy, a nature explorers program, is seeking part-time Teacher/Mentors to facilitate outdoor classes for PreK– 5th graders in schools across Tulsa. Our team members are reliable, resilient, playful, creative and, above all, patient. They work well independently and are comfortable working outdoors every day, in safe weather. They have a deep respect for children’s autonomy and individuality.
Teacher Mentors:
Dates September-May with a paid training in late August
Locations: Mayo School Campus and Zarrow School Campus
Hours: Each class is 1.5 hours with 1 hour of prep per week
Mission
Under The Canopy is a place-based eco-education program that connects people of all ages to each other through active engagement with their natural environment. With an integrated anti-bias curriculum, our program immerses students in their own nature-connection journey. We facilitate cultural mentoring to awaken individual’s unique gifts and empower them to enrich the health of their communities, transforming the lives of all people.
Our teachers bring their passion, creativity and warm, adventurous spirits to every class. They serve as a trusted adult for each student, a key source of information for parents and are hands-on in developing the curriculum and procedures for our evolving program. Applicants should have leadership experience with groups of children, such as in forest school, summer camp or early childhood classrooms.
Responsibilities:
● Be willing to train in the philosophy of nature awareness and demonstrate professionalism and best practices, including:
○ Responding to challenging behavior with compassion, respect and reasonable choices
○ Offering support if asked, but allowing play without interference
○ Not assisting children to go beyond their comfort zone or skill level
● Ensure the safety of all participants through risk-benefit assessments, an understanding of the weather and positive conflict resolution
● Maintain equipment and prepare class materials, including lifting or carrying up to 50 pounds
● Conduct written reflection on activities, write lesson plans, take photos and attend monthly staff meetings
● Help students with their gear and snack, following all COVID safety guidelines
● Be an advocate for free play and nature connection with parents and neighbors
● Be willing to accept and act upon feedback, work through challenges as a team, and keep the children’s best interests at heart.
Necessary qualifications:
● At least one year of experience working as a teacher of elementary aged children, 4-11 years old.
● Ability to communicate and collaborate with a team, and be open to growing through reflection and professional development
● Familiarity with the benefits of nature education
● Flexibility, adaptability and patience
● Punctuality and reliability, excellent time management and the ability to problem-solve independently
● CPR and First Aid certification, or the ability to acquire these certifications during employment
● Must pass a background and reference check and be at least 18 years old
Highly desirable, but not required:
● Knowledge of local Oklahoma flora, fauna, history and waterways
● Photography and video editing skills
● Outdoor skills such as knot-tying, building shelters or carpentry
● A knowledge and interest in outdoor experiences such as camping, hiking and exploring
● Fluency in Spanish or another language besides English
Benefits and schedule:
● Employment begins when hired
● Pay is $16 - $18/hour, depending on experience
● We follow the public school calendar and are closed for holidays
● Hours run in two-hour shifts. This includes prep and teaching time.
● One hour of team meetings per semester and on an as needed basis, scheduled outside of class hours, based on mutual availability.