Job Title: Learning Center Instructor- 2022-2023 School Year

Department: Pilcher Park Nature Center

Immediate Supervisor: Little Sprouts Director

FLSA Status: Part Time / Non-Exempt

Prepared By: Katie Zaban - kzaban@jolietpark.org

Prepared Date: March 2022

Program Description: The Little Sprouts Early Learning Center program is dedicated to bringing children and nature together. The program offers experiences typically found in child-centered learning centers; however, Little Sprouts focuses on daily interactions with nature, animals, and plant life. Research has found that children who spend more time in nature pay attention better, think more clearly, and are able to cope more effectively with stress. The nature curriculum is based on seasonal changes. Topics reflect current events in the natural world and provide the basis for daily outdoor discovery plus: creative arts, large & small motor skill development, math & manipulative activities, natural science exploration, language experiences and construction play.

Little Sprouts is more appropriate for children whose families are looking for discovery-based learning rather than traditional lessons that are scheduled and confined by curriculum objectives. Natural themes and materials are incorporated throughout indoor and outdoor activities. Our program operates for nine months starting September and ending in early May. There are 2 instructors leading a maximum of 15 students aged 3-5 who must be potty-trained.

JOB SUMMARY

Under the direction and supervision of the Little Sprouts Director, the Instructor is responsible for all planning, implementation, and supervision of the day-to-day activities for pre-school aged students. Instructors are responsible for direct supervision of children and providing a safe and educational environment for them. Compensation starts at $12 per hour.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Work with pre-school aged children daily.
• Create and implement pre-school appropriate curriculum.
• Create and implement curriculum for Little Sprouts.
• Represent the Little Sprouts program and Nature Center in public relations.
• Design and install displays in the Little Sprouts classroom.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized environment for children to learn and grow.
• Provide a variety of activities and materials that are age appropriate and relevant to young children.
• Hike trails with students in all types of weather and terrain.
• Attend all Little Sprouts and Nature Center staff meetings.
• Must be comfortable handling and talking about a variety of reptiles, amphibians, insects, etc.
• Plan, organize, and participate in all Nature Center special events.
• Be willing to work some weekends.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice as the needs of the employer and requirements of the job change.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word and Excel.
• Able to multi-task and still maintain a professional demeanor.
• Must hold current CPR/First Aid Certifications or be willing to gain these Certifications.
• Must be at least 18 years of age and hold at least a High School diploma or GED equivalent.
• Must have experience with early-learning and an appreciation for the idea of children learning through nature.
• Must be prompt, responsible, friendly, and work well with other teachers, parents of students, etc. Customer service experience is key.
• Must be able to pass a background check.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to stand; walk; sit; bend; kneel; use hands and fingers to handle or feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; climb stairs; talk or hear; taste and smell; and carry materials. The employee may occasionally lift or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by the job include close vision, distance vision, color vision, peripheral vision, depth perception and the ability to adjust focus.

This job description does not constitute an employment agreement between the employer and employee.

The Joliet Park District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.