Job Description

Davis Forest School is a non-profit outdoor education and nature play organization located on Patwin and Nisenan land. We value building community through land-based programming, and creating and maintaining a supportive space that allows others to explore and grow.

Our drop-off child-led programming is geared towards 5-12 year olds, and nurtures a reciprocal relationship between children and the land (you can check out our website and our Instagram account for more information). We have classes in  Davis,   Sacramento ,  Orangevale/Folsom, and a new homeschool class in Placer County: Lincoln/Rocklin . Forest Mentors are generally hired for 1-5 shifts per week (from 3.5 to 5.5 hours per shift), depending on availability, although we prioritize those who can work more shifts. We currently have openings in our Homeschool classes in Placer County (Lincoln/ Rocklin - Fridays 9:45-3:15pm) and Folsom (Wednesdays 9:45am-3:15pm), and our After School class in Orangevale (Thursdays 1:45-5:15pm). We are also interested in meeting you if you would like to join our team as a substitute Forest Mentor!

The position of Forest Mentor supports child development, emotional wellbeing, relationships, and deep nature connection. Your job is to be warm, model curiosity and nature connection, be flexible, and support conflict and connection. You help children use the restroom outdoors and administer First Aid as needed. You implement a seasonal curriculum which allows for plenty of free play. You facilitate certain forms of risky play, while also enforcing specific safety guidelines. This position requires the ability to stand, walk on uneven ground, bend, and to carry up to 20 lbs. You must have the ability to communicate clearly and compassionately to children, parents, peers, and other members of our community. You must be comfortable working outdoors in a variety of weather conditions and temperatures. You have a strong sense of personal accountability and are growth-oriented. You have the desire/ability to create a safe and nurturing program experience for children and families, including those who identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC), LGBTQ+, and/or neurodivergent.

Prior experience working in a similar setting with children is preferred, but not required. First Aid/CPR knowledge is also preferred but not required (we can provide an opportunity to become certified). An understanding of, or willingness to learn, the ideas and philosophies behind Forest School programs is requested. Familiarity with books such as Coyote's Guide to Connecting with Nature, Sharing the Joy of Nature, and Last Child in the Woods (among others!) is a good place to start.

Research shows that BIPOC folks, trans and non-binary folks, and women are less likely to apply for jobs unless they believe that they meet every qualification listed in a job description. Your skills, experience, and education can come from personal interests, self-directed learning, community roles, and life experiences. We strongly encourage you to apply if you are interested in the position, even if you do not believe that you meet all of the qualifications.

Please follow this link to fill out our application:

We will be reviewing applications as we receive them. If you have any questions about this application, please email Alana at alana@davisforestschool.org.

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