Education Internship Position Available at the Washington Youth Garden at the National Arboretum

Position Available: Education Intern, Winter/Spring 2010

Organization Description

Using the garden cycle as a tool, the mission of the Washington Youth Garden at the U.S. National Arboretum is to inspire children and families to engage in self-discovery, explore relationships with food and the natural world, and contribute to the health and well-being of their communities.

Program Description

The Washington Youth Garden, a project of the Friends of the National Arboretum (FONA), carries out four major programs: Garden Science, SPROUT (Science Program Reaching Out), Growing Food…Growing Together, and Seed to Supper. This position is primarily focused on Garden Science, a program carried out through a partnership with local DC elementary schools. During the winter months, third and fourth grade students receive weekly instruction through a highly interactive, hands-on curriculum that introduces plant and environmental sciences, food, and nutrition.  After the classroom component, each class visits the Youth Garden for two full days of environmental education programming. Additionally, each participating elementary school will install a school garden on their grounds with guidance and support from the WYG staff.

Responsibilities

The Education Intern is responsible for assisting with the development and facilitation of the Garden Science curriculum and activities in the classroom, school garden, and at the Washington Youth Garden. The Intern will work with administrators, teachers, parents, and community members to assist in the design, installation, and utilization of the school garden. The Intern will assist with basic gardening tasks like weeding, mulching, and seeding as needed.

Qualifications

Possessing or working towards a bachelor’s degree in related field (Education, Environmental Science, Horticulture) or comparable experience. General knowledge and interest in vegetable gardening and food, ability to work well with children, good communication skills, creativity, willingness and enthusiasm to learn about the youth gardening movement. First Aid/CPR certification is a plus.  Must be able to work outdoors in various weather conditions and lift 50 lbs.

Time Commitment

15-20 hours per week, Monday through Friday with a flexible schedule to accommodate varying classroom instruction time. January through May with flexible start and end dates.

Compensation

This position is unpaid, but WYG will work with Intern to fulfill university credits.

To Apply

Please send a resume, cover letter, and three references to Kacie Warner, Education Coordinator at Kwarner@washingtonyouthgarden.org by December 15, 2009. Email is preferred, mailing address is below. For more information about our programs, visit us at http://www.washingtonyouthgarden.org.