Museum of Northern AZ recruiting for docents

<i>MNA courtesy photo</i><br> Museum docents can learn how to conduct activities such as puppet shows to teach children and adults about the land and people of the region.

Originally Published: December 21, 2010 4:49 p.m.

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. - The Museum of Northern Arizona is recruiting for its 2011 Docent Training Program, seeking enthusiastic individuals who would like to learn and teach about the human and natural history of the Colorado Plateau.

Docents are volunteer educators who lead group tours and workshops throughout the year for school-age children, adults, and seniors.

The 2011 Docent training class will meet on Thursdays from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., Jan. 6 through June 30. The class consists of expert speakers on ecology, history, geology, paleontology, anthropology, archaeology, and fine arts. Training on effective interpretative techniques and educational content gives docents confidence in working with the public and leading gallery tours.

The Docent Training Program is a rewarding way to give back to your community through teaching, while learning about the land and people of our region. Docent tours range from puppet shows for preschoolers to adult gallery tours on multiple topics. Docents also have opportunities to go out into the community for school outreach programs or slide show presentations for adult groups. Throughout the year there are many opportunities for docents to interact with the public and work toward their commitment of 60 hours of service per year.

MNA's Docent Program includes many social activities with the opportunity to meet people with similar interests. You will partake in an in-depth course on the history, cultures, and geology of the Colorado Plateau. In return, you share your knowledge and enthusiasm with museum visitors.

If you are interested in interviewing to become a Museum of Northern Arizona docent, please contact Education Program Manager Kathy Farretta at kfarretta@mna.mus.az.us or (928) 774-5213, ext. 206.