TEAM DNR Volunteer Description

A highly-trained volunteer who enters schools (both public & private) and teaches students about specific Bay-related issues or topics. The efforts of the volunteer will further DNR's commitment to educating children about environmental issues important to the restoration and maintenance of the Chesapeake Bay. Volunteers provide an important link between DNR and schools around the state. The volunteer may also participate in DNR-sponsored activities or events outside the classroom.

Role & Responsibilities:

• Enter schools requesting programs and give Bay-related presentations
• Represent DNR at schools and other public events in a professional manner
• Participate in various training events/field trips sponsored by DNR
• Take good care of all presentation equipment
• Help DNR evaluate what teachers think of the program

Volunteer Experience/Skills:

• Desire to work with children
• Ability to work independently
• Friendly and outgoing attitude
• Open to new ideas and concepts
• Desire to protect the Bay watershed
• High school graduate or higher education
• A valid drivers license and car for driving to schools

Working environment:

Volunteers work in pairs to educate students in a classroom environment. DNR staff will support but not supervise volunteers in a school. On occasion, a volunteer might be asked to lead outdoor presentations. These presentations would preferably occur at a State Park or facility.

Training/Support:

Volunteers receive three full days of training about the programs, including an outdoors steams component. Training is also provided on both presentation skills and classroom management. After training is completed, kits are available for use by volunteers to conduct presentations. DNR staff also assist volunteers in improving their presentations.

DNR Expectations:

Volunteers represent DNR. They should be friendly, open, and professional in the classroom. They're going to educate students about specific Bay-related issues or topics identified by Maryland DNR. Volunteers give scripted presentations in schools that request our help. Presentations are in self contained kits with scripted lesson plans. In addition, volunteers need to make a commitment of at least one year to the program after the initial training period.

Benefits to Volunteers:

• Detailed training in specific environmental topics

• Interaction with other persons having similar ideals
• DNR special events (e.g., volunteer awards dinner)
• Special training at field sites around the State
• Educating children about the Chesapeake Bay
• Joy of opportunity to make new friends
• Free Passes to State events (i.e., State Fair)

Contact Information:

Chris Hintz
Conservation Education Specialist/TEAM Program Coordinator
Maryland Dept. of Natural Resources
580 Taylor Ave, E-2
Annapolis, MD 21401
(410) 260-8809

The State of Maryland is an Equal Opportunity Employer

If you have further questions call Chris Hintz, TEAM program coordinator, at 410-260-8809 or email her at chintz@dnr.state.md.us

For Educators

• TEAM DNR Home
• Classroom Programs
• Teacher Request Form
• Program Materials
• Correlation to Maryland State Curriculum and Environmental Literacy Standards