Youth in these classes gain awareness and appreciation of wildlife, habitat, and ecological systems while seeking solutions to environmental issues.
Our classes connect youth to nature as they explore and investigate their natural habitat and surroundings. Youth learn the science about the many natural habitats through physical activities such as: learning about the weather, wildlife habits, outdoor survival skills, and insect entomology. Once students have obtained outdoor skills they will put them into practice at our end of the year camping and fishing trip.
For the past several years, 4-H CAPITAL has been awarded the TPWD COOP Grant that supports the introduction of environmental education to underserved populations. A majority of our Natural Resource programs are spread throughout our DVISD schools. Due to this partnership our youth learn from the TPWD staff and other special guests that support and raise the awareness of earth resources and sustainability practices.
“What will I be doing as an AmeriCorps Member on the Natural Resource team?”
Our Natural Resource AmeriCorps Members work together with our Natural Resource Curriculum Specialist to assure the smooth roll out of the Natural Resource program from M-F. AmeriCorps Members are expected to have motivation to educate youth on best sustainability practices and how to care for the environment locally and globally. Our members will hike, fish, camp, and learn many different curriculums that support various Natural Resource topics. This position also plans and works together with their partner schools to go on weekend field trips (fishing, hiking, GPS navigation etc.) to local state parks and overnight weekend camping trips.
Essential Functions: Science Instructor Natural Resource Team
- Inspire youth to develop into inquiring scientists, citizens of character, partners in service and engaged community members
- Be a positive role model and influence for elementary and middle school aged students
- Members will be working specifically with vulnerable populations.
- Plan, lead, and assist 4-H CAPITAL’s science curriculum in the after school space
- Develop proficiency in teaching and leading groups of youth of up to 16 students
- Lead/chaperone day and overnight trips with students: fishing/hiking/camping
- Implement proactive behavior management systems to ensure a safe and impactful teaching environment
- Members will work a 9AM-6PM weekly schedule (40-45 hours per week) *some weekend hrs. expected due to NR Field Trips*
- Assist in gathering and reporting data for evaluation purposes including daily attendance
- Willingness to work in an office environment that houses animals
- Working outdoors in various weather conditions with exposure to stinging insects, poison ivy, and other hazards