STU_CES_Avian_K-12_Curriculum_Internship

The Center for Environment and Society (CES) centers on training the next generation of scientists and environmentalists. CES also has a strong community engagement strategy working with K-12 students, young professionals, and the wider community. Washington College faculty, staff, and students will engage with local schools by developing appropriate grade-level lessons that align with current national and state educational standards. This project will increase Foreman’s Branch Bird Observatory’s (FBBO) capacity to influence youth and community members by providing environmental education opportunities in the classroom and in the field. Content and materials developed will also be adapted for use in interpretative community education at FBBO’s new banding station (construction to be completed 2025). The Digital Scholarship Museums Partnership (DSMP) will also work with FBBO to develop materials and virtual tours and resources for the new banding station.  

This intern will support the research and development of lesson plans for classroom and field-based learning working with Washington College’s faculty in the Education Department. The student will also provide support for meetings with partners and teachers when gathering insights and feedback on lesson plans. The intern will work with faculty, staff, and interns to coordinate activities between FBBO and the work of DSMP. 

Activities: 

• Research and document avian-centered K-12 curriculum and education resources at banding stations and interpretative centers. 
• Support development of original lesson plans for avian education.  
• Utilize Canva or other design software to create user-friendly teacher lesson plans and student resources. 
• Provide logistical support for partner and teacher feedback meetings. 
• Review and update the virtual home of visual, auditory, and text-based information about FBBO and its banding operations for any useful updates.  
• Provide DSMP program with subject-matter support, such as bird identification, biology, and ecology.  

Please submit a cover letter and resume that describes your strengths, interests, and experiences. The same letter can be used for all internships housed within the Center for Environment and Society as long as it includes each internship that you are interested in and how it aligns with your academic interests and goals.

• Experience with K-12 education, environmental education, or bird biology and ecology.  
• Graphic design, particular Canva preferred, but not required. 
• Work independently and meet deadlines. 
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multi-task. 
• Effective communication skills. 
• Driver’s license and ability to become an approved Washington College driver is preferred, but not required.  

Additional Info

• Intern will be paid $15/hour for approximately 10 hours/week.
• This internship is hosted by the Center for Environment and Society and will work in closer partnership with WC Department of Education.
• This internship will be hybrid. Work will be conducted virtually, and/or in-person at Semans-Griswold Environmental Hall, Main Campus, and River and Field Campus.