Outdoor education programs do an exemplary job of training naturalists and teachers. Many of these professionals start as interns or substitutes and go on to long careers as naturalists, classroom teachers, college professors, rangers, and the like. Unfortunately, very few of these talented individuals go on to become Outdoor School Administrators. As such, we should focus more of our attention on training the next generation of Outdoor School Administrators.
Working naturalists are the best candidates for administrative positions since they are the ones most familiar with the day-to-day operations of outdoor school sites. They are also the people who, over time, have developed the best understanding of how to resolve many of the challenges unique to outdoor school settings. While it is true that some of this state's outstanding administrators did not get their first taste of outdoor education until they assumed their administrative duties, we are doing our profession a disservice if we do not develop the talents of the naturalists currently working throughout California. It's no accident that education professionals are required to do a minimum of two year's teaching before they are eligible to apply for an administrative position. Following this logic, it makes sense for future outdoor education administrators to have experience as naturalists.
At first glance this notion may not have appeal to many working naturalists, as the word "administration" conjures images of neckties, staff meetings, and less contact with students. While these things are true to some degree, administration, like any position is what you make of it (there are indeed ways to continue working directly with students while still being an administrator).
Administration is a viable path for those interested in a career in Outdoor Education. It provides a great variety of challenges and experiences, and offers an opportunity to continue your positive impact in the profession.
Given the commitment it takes to perform the day-to-day duties of a naturalist, it might be difficult to find time to go back to school and acquire the necessary credentials for an administrative position. With this in mind, I offer the following advice:
Start by talking to your own administrator. Chances are she/he has a story to tell of getting the necessary credentials while still employed as an outdoor educator. If not, she/he will certainly know someone who has done it.
Other possible options are outlined below:
Many teaching naturalists are already qualified to receive a "Vocational Credential." Such a credential may, depending on the District or County Office, qualify you to serve in a credentialed position at an outdoor school. Vocational Credentials require a combination of college credit (typically undergraduate work) and work experience in a particular field. As such, a working naturalist with about three year's experience and a science related degree, may be eligible for a Vocational Credential in the sciences (then all you have to worry about is the CBEST and any other necessary standardized tests - keep that number 2 pencil sharp!).
Those looking to get a "Multiple Subjects" or "Single Subject" Credential (these will open more doors than a Vocational Credential), should consider attending programs at Universities such as National University and Chapman College. Class schedules at these institutions tend to be more flexible than your typical State College or U.C. program (I understand that National University has recently begun to offer classes via the Internet). Keep in mind that these programs will also cost a bit more.
Where student teaching is concerned, you can complete some of this work during the summer, and, in some cases, get credit while teaching at an outdoor school (SCION, Tulare County's program, is among those schools that occasionally host student teachers).
If time, or other considerations, make it difficult to attend a private college (or attend any program) while continuing to work, you may want to explore taking a leave of absence from your current position. Many programs have provisions that allow staff to take time off for educational purposes and later return to work.
Once you receive your teaching credential, you will be eligible for a variety of outdoor education positions ranging from instructor, to lead teacher, and "principal." After two years of such duty you will be eligible to pursue your administrative credential. State, U.C., and private programs all offer flexible scheduling in their administrative programs. One program I recommend is Saint Mary's College in Moraga as they offer their classes on weekends and have a number of satellite programs throughout the state (again, it costs a bit more, but you might find the trade-off worthwhile).
While all of the above may seem overwhelming, the journey is well worth taking. Your commitment to outdoor education may be just what it takes to keep our programs focused and moving forward in the future.
