Teacher-Ranger-Teachers

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore (Lakeshore) is recruiting a local, virtual Teacher-Ranger-Teachers (TRT) to spend the summer collaborating with rangers to develop education programs. Applications received by May 16th will receive first consideration.

What is a Teacher-Ranger?

The nationwide Teacher-Ranger-Teacher (TRT) program is a unique professional development opportunity for educators to gain experience during the summer working side by side with National Park Service Staff.

If selected, you will receive training, gain knowledge and experience, and work with Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore for eight weeks between June and August. Then, take your experiences back to the classroom to share with your students.

The intent of the Teacher-Ranger-Teacher program is to provide well-rounded experiences for teachers in national parks. During their experience, teachers will develop National Park Service materials to be shared with their students in the classroom and on the web. The program will focus on teachers from schools that have diverse student populations.

What are the benefits?

For Teacher-Ranger-Teachers:

• $3,000 stipend

• Three Graduate credits from the University of Colorado, Denver (CU Denver).

• Professional development providing a wide range of new knowledge and skills through working with park staff and partners

• Gain access to an extensive array of teaching resources and tools to enhance classroom curriculum in multiple content areas

• Begin or extend a personal and professional connection with national parks

For schoolchildren:

• Place-based learning

• Opportunities and resources to connect to their natural and cultural heritage in new way

• Awareness of the possibilities for volunteering and paid employment with the National Park Service

2021

This year’s TRT will have the opportunity to create activities and program materials to provide teachers across the nation with asynchronous and synchronous distance learning curriculum relevant to the Lakeshore. These programs will be designed to meet Next Generation Science Standards, Common Core, and Michigan Social Studies Standards. The TRT may also work with a variety of park experts and gain experience helping with other park programs or special events.

The position is expected to be mostly virtual, with the TRT conducting their work remotely on their own equipment. There will be opportunity for the TRT to make day trips to the Lakeshore to engage with staff and visitors. Housing will not be provided so the TRT must live and teach within the local commuting area.

How do I apply?

Contact us at e-mail us for an application! Applications received by May 16th will receive first consideration. The TRT can expect to begin work at the park sometime in June.

All applications must include the following:

• Resume
• Cover letter
• Two references
• Completed application

For more information
The National Parks Service | Teacher Ranger Teacher Program