Common Threads connects kids to healthy food in the garden, in the kitchen, and at the table. We want kids to grow up making food choices that are good for their bodies, their communities, and the environment. Founded in 2006 and based in Bellingham, Washington, Common Threads is a grassroots, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that promotes a “seed to table” approach to food production, good nutrition, and environmental stewardship.  Most of our programs take place on public school grounds, during the school day.  Additionally, Common Threads runs after-school gardening and cooking programs and spring/summer camps in our school gardens and at our urban farm site.

The School Farmer AmeriCorps member will support school-based gardening and greenhouse management, serving in close collaboration with Common Threads’ Food Education team (staff and AmeriCorps service members) by taking a lead role in the development and maintenance of robust agricultural spaces at Common Threads’ growing number of partner schools (currently 21 school gardens and one large hoophouse).

Responsibilities

This AmeriCorps School Farmer position will:

  • Develop and maintain a crop plan for school gardens and greenhouses
  • Develop and implement  training for Food Educators on a variety of farming and gardening topics (soil health, crop rotation, etc.)
  • Lead garden lessons during Spring and Fall
  • Lead cooking lessons during Winter
  • Lead or support after school gardening and/or cooking clubs
  • Lead camp-style programs during Spring Break and Summer camps
  • Lead efforts to maintain/improve school gardens at assigned school(s)
  • Assist with the recruitment, supervision, and appreciation of program volunteers
  • Collect and track data (e.g. attendance, pre- and post-tests to track impact of programming, volunteer hours)
  • Support special events and other relevant food education opportunities for families as they arise

The service member will serve in a support and collaboration role with the AmeriCorps Food Educators – the distinction of this particular position being that the School Farmer will be selected based largely on his/her agricultural skills (as opposed to teaching and/or cooking skills which are also highly desired.)

Skills and Qualifications

The ideal candidate will

  • Be passionate, committed and creative
  • Have a solid background working with kids
  • Have strong agricultural skills and experience in growing food

Previous service members have asked that we please say up front that this is an intense and rewarding position. You must love long hours, being outside in all weather, and be ready for curve balls from kids and adults!

A car, though not necessary, is certainly helpful.  If not a car, then a bike – counting on public transportation is not a realistic option.

 

How To Apply

  • This position is contingent on funding and will also require an application via the AmeriCorps website.
  • Send resume and cover letter to Laura Plaut, Executive Director, 516 E. North Street, Bellingham, WA 98225 or laura@commonthreadsfarm.org
  • Applications accepted on a rolling basis until all positions are filled. Do not delay in submitting your application.