HORTICULTURAL THERAPIST
Every child deserves the chance to realize their fullest potential in life. While others may focus on the challenges of the children we serve, we see possibilities. Possibilities for confidence, happiness, achievement and self- reliance. For 70 years, The Centers for Exceptional Children (CFEC) has been providing a critical combination of support services, programs and facilities dedicated to one thing: helping children with special needs and their families thrive.
POSITION SUMMARY
The Horticultural Therapist is responsible for leading a nature-based program that provides hands-on activities to stimulate sensory, motor, and cognitive and communications skills for the students served at The Children’s Center and The Centers for Exceptional Children.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Develop and lead monthly hands-on nature-based programs for preschool and school age classrooms utilizing literature, plants, and materials found in nature. These programs will be designed to provide opportunities for the students to practice fine and gross motor skills, social interaction, and communication skills as well as to promote an awareness of and exposure to the natural environment. Programs will be adapted to meet the needs of each student based on age, abilities, and interest level.
- Provide school wide in-services, PTA Programs and Community workshops to increase awareness of the value of the horticultural therapy program
- Supervise and work with the Gardening Specialist to maintain outdoor gardens and classroom spaces.
- Design, maintain, and update garden areas to be used as an outdoor classroom. The design will focus on providing a safe environment that will encourage a variety of sensory and learning experiences.
- Collaborate with Director of Development and Marketing as requested to support funding requests for both the indoor and outdoor components of the program.
- Maintain financial records pertaining to the operation of the HT Program
- Partner closely with the teachers, staff, specialists, and families to support the needs and goals of the students.
- Provide recommendations regarding landscaping decisions, including design, material selection and maintenance of the school campus.
- Responsible for procuring any necessary plants, soil, amendments, and mulch needed to maintain the garden
QUALIFICATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS
A successful candidate will have:
- Personal qualities of integrity, credibility and dedication to the vision and mission of The Centers for Exceptional Children.
- Excellent communication and relationship building skills.
- Ability to collaborate with other health care allies, teachers, staff and parents
- Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment.
- Commitment to training programs that maximize individual and organizational goals.
- No restrictions with lifting or mobility
Preference for candidates with:
- An individual with the designation of Registered Horticultural Therapist (HTR) is preferred. Candidates currently working towards registration will be considered, as well as those who have completed an approved Therapeutic Horticulture certificate. Opportunities for a supervised internship are available.
Position is a part-time contract position.
To apply send a detailed letter of interest explaining your qualifications and your resume to [email protected]. Include “Horticultural Therapist” in the subject line of your email. No phone calls please.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis.
Job Types: Part-time, Contract
Schedule:
Work Location: In person
