EJ Iacobucci, Substitute Teacher

EJ has grown up in and around nature their entire life! They are so excited about the opportunity to share their appreciation and curiosity for the natural world with the BOPN kids.

Growing up homeschooled, EJ attended various Nature Path programs and played in the woods as a significant part of their learning. They value curating a love for learning within children—encouraging youth to be curious and use their imaginations to question and discover the natural world.

EJ values play as a significant part of development, and its role in building imagination, confidence, and curating sacred spaces for self-expression.

Working with youth of all ages for 7 years, EJ has spent time from a mother's helper and library volunteer, all the way to a Children’s Library Associate and full-time nanny. In their time as a Children’s Librarian, EJ learned how to develop programs for children of various age groups and identities, interact and support families, and foster a love for reading within youth. They prioritize ensuring children feel included and seen, as there are so many types of learners.

EJ studied Criminal Justice, Women’s Studies, and Gender Studies in college. This gave EJ room to grow their knowledge in the accessibility of education, and the importance of unconventional learning opportunities. They also worked with professors to build a curriculum focused on Trauma-Informed Teaching and Collective Trauma. This helped prepare EJ for conversations surrounding identity, and the various lived experiences that guide us—always encouraging children to be curious not just about the world around them, but also within.

Outside of outdoor learning, EJ loves to rock climb, go swimming, cook new dishes for their loved ones, volunteer at book programs, and craft!

EJ is a new Assistant Teacher/Substitute at the Arnold Arboretum, and is encouraged by teaching and learning with children. They are excited to build connections with every child they meet.