The HEAL Project: Garden Educator
The HEAL Project is looking for a Garden Educator to work during the academic year, specifically for 28 instructional weeks, starting September 1, 2026. This role involves using an established, award-winning curriculum to engage students in hands-on lessons that cover science, gardening, nutrition, and environmental stewardship. In addition to teaching garden-based lessons and facilitating activities like planting, weeding, and cooking demonstrations, the educator will create a safe and inclusive environment for all learners. The position also includes program support tasks, such as material preparation, tracking attendance, maintaining documentation, and sharing program highlights for newsletters and social media, as well as participating in staff meetings and professional development opportunities.
Specific Locations:
The Garden Educator leads engaging, hands-on garden lessons at Hatch Elementary School in Half Moon Bay during a 14-week fall session and a 14-week spring session. Classes are held Tuesday through Friday for approximately four hours each day. During these instructional periods, educators can expect to work approximately 16 to 20 hours per week.
The Garden Educator leads engaging, hands-on garden lessons at Ortega Elementary School in Pacifica during a 14-week fall session and a 14-week spring session. Classes will be held on Wednesday and Thursday each week. During these instructional periods, educators can expect to work approximately 12 to 15 hours per week.
The Garden Educator leads engaging, hands-on garden lessons at Baywood Elementary School in San Mateo during a 14-week fall session and a 14-week spring session. Educators can anticipate working 16-20 hours per week, 2-3 days on-site at the school garden.
About The HEAL Project:
The HEAL Project (THP) is a unique organization providing hands-on programming that instills healthy lifestyle habits in elementary school children while inspiring environmental and agricultural awareness through a comprehensive, interactive curriculum. THP teaches kids where their food comes from and why it matters.
Responsibilities
Garden Education (80%)
Teach engaging, garden-based lessons for children at partner schools
Lead students in seasonal cooking demonstrations, tastings, and nutrition lessons
Facilitate garden and farm activities like planting, weeding, composting, and harvesting
Create a safe, inclusive, and joyful learning environment for all students
Program Support & Administration (20%)
Prepare materials and maintain teaching gardens in collaboration with the THP team
Track attendance, maintain documentation, and collect surveys and assessments
Share program updates, photos, and stories for newsletters and social media
Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and training
Job Requirements
All candidates must:
Have access to a personal vehicle and provide valid driver’s license and proof of insurance
Be able to walk up to two miles and lift/carry up to 40 lbs for 20 feet
Be comfortable using a computer for program administration tasks
Prior to commencing employment, candidates are required to:
Pass LiveScan fingerprint background check
Provide a negative TB test
Complete First Aid, CPR, and EpiPen training (costs will be covered by THP)
Obtain Emergency Teaching Credentials (costs will be covered by THP)
This role is perfect for someone who:
Enjoys working with children
Values time outdoors
Wants to be part of a supportive, mission-driven community
Is looking for a flexible schedule.
The ideal candidate will have:
A four-year bachelors degree in any field
Demonstrated comfort with kids and group management
Experience working independently with minimal supervision
Compensation
$32 per hour
Paid sick & safe leave
An individual annual professional development stipend
Ongoing training in trauma-informed and culturally-aware teaching
A weekly share of fresh produce from the THP Farm during harvest season
To Apply
Garden Educator, In-School Programs - Hatch Elementary