- Reach out to [email protected] if interested in learning more after Feb 29.
- June 10, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Attend Mandatory Training
- Learn more about the steps!
$100 fee: This fee is for approved candidates only who have successfully applied and been accepted into the Counselor-In-Training program. Fee covers mandatory orientation on Monday, June 10, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m., leadership development training, t-shirt, certificate, celebration, and all project supplies (Financial assistance is available to those who are eligible for free or reduced school lunch. Inquire by email [email protected].)
Do you have a passion for nature, gardening, and creative play? Enjoy being a role model for younger children and like to get your hands in the dirt? The Arboretum's Counselor-In-Training program may be the perfect fit for you! Share your skills and bring your imagination and creativity to the Arboretum--join the fun as we play, garden, create, explore and learn together!
The Counselor-in-Training (CIT) program is designed to provide opportunities for responsible, positive youth mentors to increase leadership skills by sharing a passion, knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world with younger campers and gardeners. CITs will assist Youth Education program staff in providing a safe, supportive, and exciting experience for all participants, as well as helping out with other projects.
Top 10 Benefits of being a Counselor-in-Training (CIT)
- Have FUN!!
- Meet new friends
- Work with caring adult mentors
- Log volunteer hours and give back to the community
- Be a valuable part of a fun, supportive, and creative team
- Develop useful life skills in leadership and time-management
- Receive training that can be applied to future job/volunteer opportunities
- Gain valuable experience while doing something meaningful this summer
- Share your passion for science, gardening, and the outdoors, with younger kids
- Take advantage of resume-building opportunities while serving as a role model, mentor, and teaching assistant
Step One
If you are interested, please email the Education Office [email protected].
Step Two
Fill out an application and sign up for an interview date/time.
(Applications and interview information will be provided at the info session and/or available online after February 29.)
Step Three
Successful applicants will be notified, pay one-time registration fee,* and then be able to select desired summer programs to assist. (There are many volunteer opportunities and a lot of flexibility in creating a schedule that works for you and your family. Come half days or full days, for a couple weeks, or for many!)
*$100 fee covers orientation, leadership development training, t-shirt, certificate, all project supplies, and end of season celebration (Financial assistance is available to those who are eligible for free or reduced school lunch. Inquire by email [email protected].)
Step Four
Attend a mandatory one-day CIT orientation on Monday, June 10, 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
For more information:
Call the education office 612-301-1210 or email [email protected].
Helpful information - Education
Cancellations & Exchanges for educational programs
Review the cancellation policies prior to purchasing a class.
Waitlist
The best chance of being enrolled in a sold out class is to add your name to the waitlist. Click the "waitlist" button or link next to the class and complete the form. There is no obligation to register if a spot opens. If the waitlist shows enough demand, additional sessions may be added.
Member purchasing policy
Can Members register accompanying Non-member participants for Educational programs at the discounted member rate?
Yes. Arboretum Education policy is that Members may purchase a class or camp on behalf of an accompanying Non-member at the discounted Member price as long as they are registering and paying for at least one spot for themselves. Members must Sign in, enter the total number of Member-price tickets for all participants they are purchasing for, and then complete each participant’s name and prompted information at the checkout screen. The transaction must be completed at the same time as the Member's registration(s). This policy applies only to Arboretum Education programs and classes, and is not applicable to other Arboretum purchases like Events or Admission Tickets.
Email Subscriptions
Join Arboretum mailing lists that interest you, and be among the first to know about what's happening at the Arb!
About Arboretum Education
Meet the team behind the programs that inspire scientific curiosity and a love of nature.
Education department statistics
View the annual Fiscal Year statistics of the Education Department.