Program Coordinator, Academy of Natural Sciences

Posted by on June 3, 2005

[posted to College Prep Round Table 5/10/2005]

Position: Program Coordinator for Academy/School District of Philadelphia Partnership

Term: Twelve months, beginning July 1, 2005

Status: Full-time with benefits

Reports To: Manager, SENSES Program

Summary:
The Academy of Natural Sciences has developed close partnerships with several Philadelphia public elementary/middle (K-8) schools. We are seeking a full-time educator/liaison who will:
? serve as primary Academy contact for partner schools;
? present and develop science-based, interactive lessons and programs for students and teachers, both in the museum and off-site at the partner schools; and
? contribute to the development and maintenance of unique and valuable relationships with partner schools.

Responsibilities:
Facilitate/schedule the schools? uses of Academy facilities and resources. Act as a liaison between schools and Academy education/ public programs staff. Teach inquiry-based lessons to school groups, both in the museum and at their sites. Assist in creating new lessons, modifying and updating existing lessons for partner schools. Train partner-school teachers in science content and inquiry techniques and develop supplemental materials for teachers? use. Help to plan formal and informal presentations and special, member school-only events. Perform other duties as assigned. Position involves training with all species residing in Live Animal Center. Must be flexible to work occasional weekends and evenings.

Qualifications:
? Strong background in natural sciences and education. Bachelor?s degree required in science or education (ecology, biology, environmental education, or related field preferred).
? Minimum two years teaching in an informal education setting, or equivalent experience.
? Experience in formal education desirable. The ability to anticipate schools? needs and to troubleshoot sustained relationships will be critical.
? Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
? Experience developing programs, and understanding of inquiry-based education.
? Strong public speaking skills and experience working with children.
? A team-oriented approach and versatile, self-motivated personality.
? Valid driver?s license.
? Must be able and willing to work with Academy?s live animal collection.

Note:
Applicant must pass live animal certification and preview shows, then present program to museum audience with staff member(s) observing. Subsequent training requires applicant to observe outreach programs, then be previewed and approved by Outreach Manager. Applicant must also undergo a criminal history background check and a child abuse history clearance. Job certification is contingent upon satisfactory completion of the above.

To Apply:
Send cover letter and r?sum? to Carie Szalay, Manager, SENSES Program, The Academy of Natural Sciences, 1900 Benjamin Franklin Parkway, Philadelphia, PA 19103, szalay@acnatsci.org or fax to her attention at (215) 299-1165.