FBES Naturalists develop and lead ecosystem-based lessons to areas such as coastal forests, ocean sand beaches & dunes, rocky tide pools, salt marshes, and bogs, as well as lessons on astronomy, climate & geology, weather, humans and the environment, and a night hike. Each naturalist is responsible for a teaching group of approximately 10 students (grades 3-8) for three lessons every day, with shared supervision of students between and after lessons. Naturalists are also responsible for one or two cleaning or supervisory duties each day. FBES emphasizes dynamic teaching methods, such as the use of theater, ecological skits (see photo!), effective props and quality hands-on activities. We've found that these innovative methods of teaching not only improve the students' learning experience, but also keep naturalists energized, creative, and excited about their work.

All FBES naturalists are given a week of training prior to teaching children, which includes general knowledge of coastal ecosystems, basic ecology, and the methodology of teaching children experientially in the out-of-doors. All naturalists also receive a copy of our Teaching Guide for their use while they're here. The teaching guide includes background information, sample lesson plans, and activity descriptions for each lesson taught at FBES. Although sample lesson plans are provided, naturalists are encouraged to be creative, and to develop their own lesson plans and activities.

Qualifications
1. Positive attitude, love of nature, good sense of humor, and a willingness to learn.
2. BS or BA degree or, at the least, several terms of undergraduate courses.
3. Experience working with children and/or science background is a plus, but not necessary.
4. Ability to work long hours managing groups of children.
5. Ability to develop good rapport and positive relations with students, teachers and other naturalists.

Compensation
College grads receive a starting salary of $275/week, undergrads $225/week. Each FBES naturalist is provided with onsite room and board, including weekends. Naturalist receive a $25/week raise for each term they return. (For instance, a college graduate would make $300/week their second term and $325/week their third term.) The starting salary for naturalists with a Masters Degree is $300/week.