Summer Camp Garden Educator

Since 1902, Surprise Lake Camp has provided a haven for children in the beautiful mountains of Cold Spring, NY. What makes SLC the best is the beauty of the site, the richness of the people and the program, the sense of history and tradition, and the magic we create when the whole thing comes together. We are particularly proud of our open, inclusive community that is sensitive to the needs of interfaith and diverse families.
Positions are residential and are hired for the duration of our summer program, although qualified local applicants/commuters may be considered. The time commitment is early June to late August.

The Garden/Farm Educator is directly supervised by the Specialist Supervisor.

Job Requirements

1. Minimum of 21 years of age.
2. Previous experience working with children, ideally in an informal setting.
3. Knowlege of and enthusiasm for organic gardening practices, plant identification, and sustainability practices.
4. Ability to lead group activities and provide clear instructions.
5. Strong organizational, communication and teamwork skills.
6. Commitment to fostering a community that celebrates inclusivity and camp values.
7. Be flexible with the changing needs of the program.
8. Physical ability to work outdoors in various weather conditions.

Responsibilities

1. Engage in pre-arrival discussions with year-round staff members to coordinate garden set up before arrival.
2. Plant, water, prune, and harvest fruits, vegetables, and herbs as needed.
3. Maintain a presentable appearance for the garden, including weeding and pest-maintenance, using only natural/organic practices.
4. Plan and lead hands-on gardening activities for campers (ages 7-15), staff, and guests that include planting, tending, harvesting, tasting, and/or cooking.
5. Plan programs and activities that teach campers, staff, and guests about where food comes from, plant identification, life cycles, sustainable
6. practices, healthy nutrition, food justice, and Jewish values relating to food.
7. Properly store and maintain garden tools and supplies.
8. When possible, coordinate with Jewish program specialists and Teva (nature) specialists to create synergies between the three programs.
9. Oversee a camp composting program and utilize compost whenever possible.
10. Ensure camp chickens have food and water and are let out of the chicken run daily.
11. Participate in all-camp special events as needed.
12. Write final report describing outlining how the farm ran, the program that was run, and suggestions for things to repeat and to change for next year.
13. Serve as a role model and provide support to campers when needed.
14. Fully participate in general staff orientation and specialist meetings.
15. Be willing to request help, advice, and feedback from peers and/or supervisors.
16. Be responsible for knowing and adhering to camp policies, procedures, safety, and emergency policies.
17. Report all suspicions of child abuse, bullying, or rule-breaking to proper authorities.
18. Report injuries or behavioral issues to the supervisor.
19. Serve in shmira (night watch) rotation as scheduled (residential staff, only)
20. Help prepare camp for opening at beginning of summer and final clean up at end of summer.
21. Be consistent. Remember that you, too, are worthy of rest and renewal. Take care of yourself.