Put on the National Park Service's ranger uniform (including the HAT) and work for the National Park Service this summer at the Mississippi National River and Recreation Area (MISS). Teachers will work side by side with National Park Service (NPS) staff for eight weeks this summer along the Mississippi River. In the fall, take your experience back to the classroom to share with your students.
MISS includes 72 miles of the Mississippi River within Minnesota from Dayton/Ramsey to Hastings. MISS works with partners along this stretch of the river to help preserve and protect cultural and natural resources.
The Teacher-Ranger-Teacher will have a broad range of experiences. They may work on a variety of interpretive programs, participate in festivals and events, present outdoor educational programs, review curriculum-based school activities, help with invasive plant removal and restoration activities, and work at the Mississippi River Visitor Center. Teacher-Rangers will learn to interpret core information about the Mississippi River and the National Park Service. Teachers will have opportunities to work with a wide range of visitors and in a variety of settings. The Teacher-Ranger will work independently and in collaboration with other staff. Teachers will develop NPS related materials for their students during the following school year. The Teacher-Ranger-Teacher program focuses on schools that include diverse student populations and provides a well-rounded experience for teachers in National Park settings.
Work schedules vary and include weekends and evening hours, about 32 hours/week. Applicants should be able to tolerate a range of outdoor conditions. A driver's license is required, and experience paddling and cycling are helpful. Teachers receive a $2,500 stipend (to be paid following the summer work period) and uniform allowance. During National Park Week (April 2013) teachers wear the NPS uniform to school and present programs about their summer experience and career opportunities with the NPS.
Application deadline is March 15, 2012.
More program information can be found at the National Park Service website.
