Instructor

Lead Instructors bring a depth of teaching experience and additionally support instructor mentorship, curriculum development, and program systems. Together, Field Instructors and Lead Instructors form a collaborative team that ensures high-quality programming, operational excellence, and exceptional student experiences.

Primary Responsibilities

• Facilitate Outdoor Learning: Lead groups of 10–13 participants, often with a co-educator, in inquiry-based, place-based field science and leadership experiences. Lessons are facilitated while traveling on cross-country skis and snowshoes in winter and through hiking, canoeing, and camping in summer. Programs typically span 4–7 days, include evening facilitation, and follow non-traditional schedules, working weekends, with varied days off.

• Promote Social-Emotional Growth: Build a positive group culture, facilitate teamwork and communication activities (including Challenge Course high and low elements), and support participants’ physical and emotional safety.

• Curriculum & Instruction: Develop and implement thematic, standards-aligned science curriculum that advances field science practices, connects participants to place, and supports learner-centered experiences. Deliver culturally relevant, inclusive content that connects to students’ backgrounds and perspectives. Adapt lessons to student interests, teacher requests, and environmental conditions.

• Risk Management: Maintain participant safety through effective risk management; drive 15-passenger vans and respond to emergencies in alignment with TSS policies.

• Outreach & Travel: Represent Teton Science Schools as an educational ambassador at local and regional outreach programs, school visits, and community events.

• Operational Support: Assist with mealtimes, cleaning, and maintenance of lodges, teaching spaces, and program equipment.

• Self & Team Development: Practice self-care, participate in professional development, give and receive feedback, and contribute to a collaborative team culture.

Lead Instructor Additional Responsibilities

• Mentorship & Educator Development: Co-teach with instructors and AmeriCorps members, provide field observations, facilitate weekly debriefs, and support lesson planning.

• Program Systems Support: Collaborate with Program Coordinators on hosting weeks, logistics, curriculum development, and administrative tasks.

• Focus Areas: Take leadership on defined areas such as camping systems, gear areas, or other identified departmental needs.