Science Educator

The Science Educator is responsible for helping to deliver VINS School Programs, with a focus on Prekindergarten – Grade 1 in the Small Wonders and ELF Science programs.

KEY ELEMENTS INCLUDE: Delivering high quality inquiry science lessons to students and their teachers; continuing open dialogue with area schools to support ongoing partnerships throughout the school year; participating with the ongoing evaluation and improvement of programs with the Director and Lead management team.

REPORTS TO: Director, School Programs and Teacher Professional Development

JOB LOCATION: VINS Nature Center, 149 Natures Way, Quechee, Vermont

Science Educator Duties

• Teach high quality inquiry science units to students and teachers in local schools, preschools, and daycare centers through VINS School Programs
• Serve as an educator for PreK in the Small Wonders Program
• Serves as an educator for Grades K-1 in the ELF Science Program
• Reach out to area schools to support ongoing partnerships, promote VINS School Programs and recruit new schools for upcoming school year
• Support the Director of School Programs and Teacher Professional Development in ongoing evaluation and improvement of VINS School Programs

Organizational Responsibilities Include

• Attend VINS staff meetings and participate in organization functions as required
• Work with other departments at VINS to both bring added content to public programs and facilitate opportunities for cross-promotion of programs

Qualifications

• Vermont teaching license (or a license in a reciprocating state) preferred
• Vermont Early Childhood license (or a license in a reciprocating state) preferred
• Masters Degree in education or related field preferred
• Demonstrated excellence in developing and teaching inquiry science lessons
• Experience teaching students in early childhood
• Experience in environmental education preferred
• Excellent classroom management skills, both in an indoor and outdoor setting
• Experience with curriculum development and aligning curriculum to meet standards including the Next Generation Science Standards and the Vermont Early Learning Standards
• Demonstrated ability to develop strong rapport with teachers, administrators and students
• Excellent public speaking, writing and communication skills
• Comfortability singing in front of students
• Ability to play the ukulele or willingness to learn preferred
• Flexibility, creativity and ability to think quickly in response to change
• Strong organizational skills and work ethic
• Commitment to excellence
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Must possess a valid driver’s license
• Able to lift up to 50 pounds
• Current first aid and CPR certification