Junior Docents

Group of teenagers in a rocky desert landscape, holding their hands up so as to appear to be supporting a large rock above (and behind) them

What is a Junior Docent?

Junior Docents (JDs) are teen volunteers who engage with Museum guests and community members by sharing stories about the animals, plants, and ecosystems of the Sonoran Desert Region. Additionally, JDs engage in meaningful projects throughout the year to help better the world in which we live.

Previous JDs have enjoyed learning about the interconnectedness of the natural world, discovering possible career paths, and developing their own conservation habits. Junior Docents show tremendous growth in confidence and skills in public speaking and teaching as well as expanded knowledge and understanding of Life and Earth Sciences.

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What are Junior Docent Responsibilities?

Learning about the flora, fauna and geology of the Sonoran Desert Region
Interpreting natural history with Museum guests
Working side-by-side with community members to take action to fight against the effects of climate change and environmental injustice
Engaging the public during on-site and off-site programs

How often do Junior Docents Meet?

Junior Docents meet approximately twice a month. This is a year round, two-year program.

Junior Docents make a two year commitment. They meet approximately two Saturdays a month for a full day. Additional field trips, campouts and other activities may occur throughout the year. Junior Docents are asked to attend each scheduled shift and no more than four absences per year are permitted.

How can you get involved?

Youth ages 12-16 are eligible to apply. This program is for middle school and high school students and is a two-year program; therefore, applications must be entering 7th-11th grade. This position is best suited for youth who have a desire to develop public speaking skills and are interested in learning about nature and conservation, and sharing what they learn with others. Volunteers in this position must be able to get to and from the Museum and other community events, as the Museum is unable to provide transportation.

Applicants should be aware that standing for long periods of time is generally part of the position (please let us know if any accommodations need to be made). Preference is shown to applicants who exhibit a willingness to develop the following skills: sociability, inquisitiveness, coachability, leadership, and maturity.

A $45 fee (per year) for the program includes an Individual Membership to the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, a Junior Docent polo shirt, and the cost of most activities. Payment plans and need-based discounts are available.

Unfortunately, the Museum had to postpone accepting new Junior Docents for 2022, but will open the program up to new students once again in 2023. We apologize for any inconvenience or disappointment this may cause, and hope that prospective Junior Docents will consider applying for the program in 2023!

Questions?
Please contact the Education Department at education@desertmuseum.org