The Food and Nutrition Teacher is responsible for educating students on the principles of nutrition, healthy eating habits, and food science within a school setting. This role involves developing engaging lesson plans, conducting hands-on activities such as cooking demonstrations, and promoting wellness through evidence-based nutritional education. The teacher will work with students across various grade levels, fostering lifelong healthy eating habits and ensuring compliance with food safety and dietary guidelines.
Key Responsibilities
- Curriculum Development: Design and implement lesson plans that cover topics such as balanced diets, food science, meal planning, and the impact of nutrition on health, aligned with state and national educational standards.
- Instruction: Deliver engaging lectures and interactive activities, including cooking demonstrations, to teach students about nutrition, food preparation, and safe food handling practices.
- Student Engagement: Foster a positive classroom environment that encourages students to make informed food choices and develop practical skills in nutrition and culinary arts.
- Assessment: Evaluate student progress through assignments, projects, and assessments, providing feedback to support learning and skill development.
- Food Safety Compliance: Ensure all classroom activities adhere to food safety regulations, including Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) principles.
- Collaboration: Work with school staff, including administrators and cafeteria personnel, to integrate nutrition education into broader school wellness programs.
- Professional Development: Stay updated on current nutrition science, dietary guidelines, and teaching methodologies through professional conferences, literature, and training.
- Community Outreach: Collaborate with parents, community organizations, and local health professionals to promote nutrition education initiatives.
- Advisory Role: Advise student organizations or clubs related to health and nutrition, and support extracurricular activities such as cooking clubs or wellness fairs.
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, Family and Consumer Sciences, or a related field. A Master’s degree is preferred but not required.
- Experience: Prior teaching experience or experience in nutrition education is preferred. Familiarity with food service or culinary arts is a plus.
- Skills:
- Strong communication and presentation skills to engage diverse learners.
- Knowledge of nutrition assessment tools and dietary analysis software.
- Ability to design hands-on, practical learning experiences.
- Organizational skills to manage classroom activities and meet curriculum deadlines.
- Sensitivity to cultural diversity, adapting lessons to meet varied student needs.
Work Environment
- The Food and Nutrition Teacher will work primarily in a classroom setting, with access to a teaching kitchen or laboratory for practical demonstrations.
- The role may involve occasional evening or weekend activities, such as school events or community outreach programs.
- The teacher will interact with students, parents, school staff, and community members, requiring adaptability and teamwork.
Job Type: Full-time