After School Programs Internship

~ Thorne Nature Experience, formerly the Thorne Ecological Institute, is a non-profit organization that is committed to building Earth stewardship by connecting youth to nature through joyful, hands-on, place-based environmental education experiences. ~

Thorne believes in discovery, exploration, and connection to the natural world. Founded in 1954, Thorne has a rich history and has reached more than 200,000 children and adults through its three programs: In-School Programs, Summer Camp Programs, and the BVSD 4th Grade Field Trip Program. 

Expectation for All Interns

Support the Thorne mission and exhibit a commitment to: 

• Working collaboratively, with integrity and respect for fellow employees, associates, and our communities.
• Embracing personal responsibility and accountability for your role at Thorne. 

Position Overview 

Internship Purpose: 

The After-School Programs Intern provides program support for Thorne's After-School Programs in at least one elementary school, contributing to our mission of connecting youth to nature through joyful, hands-on, place-based environmental education experiences.

The After-School Program Interns will have the opportunity to shadow, support, and help facilitate programs under the full guidance of an experienced educator and may support Thorne's In-School Programs, as well, by constructing student-written picture books (eBooks) for each student that participates in an In-School Program. 

After-School Program Description: 

In the spring of 2012, Thorne launched a new after-school nature program with the goal of connecting students to the natural areas in their own backyards and schoolyards. The program has now expanded to include 6 schools in two districts.

The curriculum focuses on helping students to develop the skills of a naturalist and then use those skills to answer questions about the living things in their schoolyard, their neighborhood, and community around their school. Through exploration, mapping, sketching, plant and animal identification, and the use of nature journals students will investigate and answer questions about their local ecosystem.

These programs currently serve Ryan and Sanchez Elementary Schools in Lafayette, Rocky Mountain Elementary and Timberline K-8 in Longmont, Columbine Elementary in Boulder, and Emerald Elementary in Broomfield. 

Principal Responsibilities 

• Attend all scheduled program dates;
• Support Thorne Instructors by assisting in leading and facilitating After-School Programs with the guidance of Thorne staff;
• Assist with program logistics: taking photos/video, managing students and materials;
• Act as a role model for students and teachers, illustrating appropriate behavior and environmental ethics;
• Encourage joyful, safe, meaningful, nature-based experiences for students; and
• Complete all required forms and submit all required information needed by Thorne Nature Experience and/or the Boulder Valley School District. 

Desired Outcomes:

Contribute towards successful delivery of Thorne's After-School Programs and the achievement of Thorne's mission. 

Job Interrelationships: 

• Thorne Staff 
• BVSD Students and Elementary teachers
• Other Thorne Volunteers and Interns
• General Public
• Community Partners 

Qualifications  

Desired Skills and Abilities: 

• Strong communication skills with adults and children;
• Good organizational skills and ability to handle multiple tasks and roles, patiently and professionally; and
• Strong computer skills (specifically experience with MS Office software). 

Desired Behavioral Traits and Attitudes: 

• Team player, fun, outgoing, passionate, organized, creative, resourceful, critical thinker, results-oriented, and self-motivated;
• Strong interest in and/or some experience in environmental education in informal settings; and
• Passionate about Thorne's mission and environmentally concerned and aware. 

Minimum Qualifications: 

• Must be 16 or older;
• Preference for those with experience or a strong desire to work with school-age children;
• Preference for those with or working on a High School Diploma, Bachelor's degree in Environmental Education, Environmental Studies, Biology, Geology, Education, or related field; and
• Background check and submitted and cleared by the Colorado Department of Human Services (Thorne pays for this). 

Note: People of Color encouraged to apply! 

Dates & Times of Internship:

This intersnship runs from February 2 - April 30, 2015. There are no programs during Spring Break Week, March 23-26. 

Mondays 

• Rocky Mountain Elementary, Longmont - 3:00-5:30  

Tuesdays 

• Emerald Elementary, Broomfield - 2:00-5:00 
• Ryan Elementary, Lafayette - 2:00-5:00 

Wednesdays 

• Rocky Mountain Elementary, Longmont - 3:00-5:30
• Timberline K-8, Longmont - 3:00-5:30 

Thursdays 

• Columbine Elementary, Boulder - 2:30-5:30
• Emerald Elementary, Broomfield - 2:00-5:00
• Sanchez Elementary, Lafayette - 2:30-5:00

Special Requirements: 

• Must commit to working at least 3 hours per week for entire internship; and
• Additional time may be required as necessary. 

Compensation 

• This is an unpaid Internship, however you will complete 36 or more documented hours of professional environmental education experience through this internship; and
• Thorne Staff is willing to fill out required forms for school credit, act as a reference for Intern, and/or write a letter of recommendation if desired. 

To Apply 

• First, click here to download an application and access additional information.
• Then, use the email address below to to submit this application together with a resume. 
• Application deadline is rolling, until filled. Apply ASAP.
• Interviews will be held on a first-come, first-served basis. Questions regarding the position can be directed to Katie Renga (and will be responded to within 3 business days).