Job Announcement: MERITO Bilingual Education Specialist for MERITO

MBNMS STATEMENT OF WORK
Bilingual Education Specialist for
Multicultural Education Program

I INTRODUCTION

a. Background
The Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary (MBNMS), the nation’s largest marine protected area, encompasses more than 5,300 square miles of central California coastal waters that contain a rich array of habitats and marine life. The Sanctuary program provides protection of these natural resources through research and education to foster public understanding and stewardship of this nationally significant marine area. The MBNMS needs to implement an education and outreach program to reach communities that are not part of mainstream conservation initiatives. Central California has numerous communities for which Spanish (and its associated dialects) is the dominant language.

b. Objectives
The contractor will be responsible for assisting with the implementation of the site-based component of “Multicultural Education for Resource Issues Threatening Oceans” (MERITO). For more information on MERITO, visit the website: http://www.mbnms.nos.noaa.gov/Educate/merito/meritoplan/index.html
The contracted individual will work closely with the MBNMS, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, and California State Parks. The level of expertise needed equates to a GS-9.

II STATEMENT OF WORK

• In coordination with Sanctuary education staff, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve (ESNERR) and California State Parks, assist with development and delivery of bilingual outreach targeting Hispanic families and students. The goal will be to update 3 existing programs and develop 3 new outreach strategies to engage the Hispanic communities.
• Provide outreach programming at ESNERR and selected school sites in Watsonville. Existing program examples include on-going teacher workshops, and restoration programs. New programs may include providing staff support for SEA Lab Monterey Bay, developing outreach programs for local schools, and coordinating activities with local afterschool programs.
• Provide interpretive programs at State Park sites in Monterey County during daytime, evening and/or weekend events. Examples include dune restoration programs, school programs, campfire programs, beach walks, clean ups, and special events.
• Demonstrate bilingual marine conservation activities at 6 community events. (Slough; State Park sites, schools and communities)
• Assist the MBNMS Education and Outreach staff in the development, delivery and evaluation of 6 outreach events targeting the Hispanic communities. (Exact dates TBD) Diá de los Niños; Cinco de Mayo, and MBNMS anniversary events.
• Provide reports and weekly updates to the Education & Outreach staff.
• Assist with updating and expanding the MBNMS website to include information in Spanish and about the MERITO program.

III REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE

• Academic background in the fields of marine conservation education, marine and estuarine resource management or coastal management.
• Experience with aspects of developing, implementing and evaluating marine science outreach programs to culturally diverse audiences, including programs, publications, print materials, events, curricula, exhibits and displays.
• Knowledge of and familiarity with a broad range of marine conservation issues and their application to the Central California Coast and National Marine Sanctuaries.
• Outstanding verbal and written communication skills specifically in writing and public speaking for diverse audiences in English and Spanish.

IV. PERSONNEL REQUIREMENTS

The contractor will periodically bill the Sanctuary for services rendered on an hourly rate basis. Contractor will need a valid California driver’s license and a car for transport. The ability to lift 50lbs to chest level and work in wet, muddy and uneven field environments is required. Benefits and insurance are not included and are the responsibility of the contractor. Ability to use computer, overhead projector, slide projector, and other commonly used teaching equipment.

V TRAVEL AND OTHER DIRECT COSTS

Travel will be billed on a cost reimbursable basis for a total of $1,000. Use of contractor’s car is required for transport between MBNMS, Elkhorn Slough National Estuarine Research Reserve, and selected State Park sites in Monterey County.

VI GOVERNMENT FURNISHED EQUIPMENT

The contractor will have access to a copier, printer, fax and phone for mailings or other communication needs, but will not have a permanent space provided. A laptop computer may be available for check out for short periods; government will not furnish a computer for exclusive use.

VII PERIOD OF PERFORMANCE AND SCHEDULE FOR DELIVERABLES

Period of performance is 12 months from the date contract is awarded.

VIII APPLICATION DEADLINE: MAY 31, 2002

Interested applicants please submit a cover letter and resume to the location listed below:

MBNMS
299 Foam Street
Monterey, CA 93940
Attn: Education & Outreach Coordinator