Horticulture Technical Classroom Assistant

The Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency (KRESA) is a critical part of Michigan's education system serving the Greater Kalamazoo region and provides specialized services to schools and communities and optimizes resources by centralizing innovative programs and services. We partner with school districts and the broader community to offer essential programs including early childhood education, special education, career learning, and educator development, ensuring that learners of all ages receive the support they need.

We are currently seeking an Horticulture Technical Classroom Assistant at the Career Connect Campus in Kalamazoo, Michigan. The essential responsibilities for this position include but are not limited to:

• Align services with KRESA Core Values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity) and Culture & Belonging principles to engage and serve all students
• Assist the CTE Horticulture instructor in the planning and implementation of educational activities
• Supplement instruction by assisting the CTE Instructor with additional student supports (i.e. individual and small group instruction, drill activities, student accommodations, etc.)
• Provide and document instructional accommodations provided to support student success in the program (i.e. additional testing time, modified tests/assignments, reading assessments aloud, etc.)
• Assist with student supervision in lab and adherence to safety procedures and protocols
• Meet with Student Success Coordinator monthly to report on student progress
• Assess agricultural and horticultural related skills including plant science/biology, field crop systems, etc
• Assist with work-based learning experiences
• Models skills for success and encourage their use by students
• Assist with leadership development and related activities
• Attend professional development and other meetings as appropriate and requested
• If needed, communicate with students, parents, CTE staff, and local school staff
• Maintain confidentiality
• Maintain instructional/classroom records as requested/required
• Maintain regular consistent attendance and punctuality
• Maintain a professional personal appearance
• Adhere to classroom health and safety procedures
• Other duties as assigned by teacher/administration

Qualified candidates will have a High school diploma or equivalent. Experience with working with high school students.

Preferred: Recent and relevant work experience in the Horticulture industry. Currently pursuing an education in Horticulture or working in the field. (Food Science, Vet Science, Animal/Crop Management, etc.)

Relevant industry certifications or credentials are beneficial.

Other skills and abilities include:

• Embraces and supports KRESA philosophies related to our core values (Collaboration, Innovation, Compassion, Respect, and Integrity), Culture & Belonging, and Continuous Improvement
• Embraces and supports KRESA's vision of a transformative, equitable and innovative education for all in the Greater Kalamazoo region
• Ability to interact effectively with individuals from a wide range of identities and lived experiences
• Ability to discuss differences with colleagues and clients in a manner that supports building positive working relationships
• Positive attitude toward high school students
• Safety mindset
• Excellent communication skills
• Basic computer skills

This is a 11 month calendar position in job grade 13 with an annual rate of pay between $32,703.75 and $47,047.50.

KRESA employees enjoy a comprehensive benefit offering that includes health insurance, paid time off, retirement benefits through Michigan's Office of Retirement Services, tuition reimbursement, student loan forgiveness and wellness incentives – all within a supportive and caring culture centered around our values of collaboration, innovation, compassion, integrity, and respect.

A Great Place to Live and Work

Kalamazoo was recently recognized as a great place to live in the Best Places to Live roundup by Kalamazoo was noted for its abundant family-friendly activities and appreciation for artisan-crafted goods, as well as the Kalamazoo Promise, a scholarship for each Kalamazoo Public School resident graduate that provides up to 100% tuition for post-secondary education.

Notice of Non-discrimination: It is the policy of Kalamazoo Regional Educational Service Agency that no discriminating practices based on race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation or sexual identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information, or any other legally protected category be allowed during any program, activity, service or in employment. The following position at Kalamazoo RESA has been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policy: Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources. Contact information: , 1819 E. Milham Ave, Portage, MI 49002.

Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities.