Position: Education Support Worker
Positions Available: One – Grade 5/6 Classroom
Reports To: Principal
Job Type: Full Time Temporary Position ending June 25, 2027, Potential for ongoing employment
Hourly Rate: $34.39/hour
About Chief Matthews School
At Chief Matthews School, we are committed to a student-centred approach including personalized learning, Xaad Kil and traditional teachings, while strengthening relationships with the community. By inspiring and nurturing respect for self, others, and the environment, we strive to empower students with a sense of belonging through celebrating students’ personal, cultural, and academic growth, while continuing the journey of language and cultural revitalization.
We balance high expectations academically through the BC Curriculum with our Traditional Haida teachings. Our school is a K/4 to Grade 6 First Nations Band School in Old Massett. We serve both Old Massett and neighbouring Massett communities.
As a strong group of 25-30 staff members consisting of teachers, Education Support Workers, 1:1 Support Workers, Administration, and other support staff, we collaborate to create a thriving school community and ensure our students’ success.
We Offer
- We are pleased to provide:
- 30 hours per week in a workplace that is engaging, dynamic and fun (limited additional hours may be required based on school needs)
- Competitive salary
- Vacation during December and Spring Break holidays (4 weeks total)
- Professional development opportunities offered locally and with First Nations Education Steering Committee
About the Opportunity
The Grade 5/6 Classroom Education Support Worker is responsible for providing assistance to the Classroom Teacher inside and outside the classroom. Adopting a team approach to working within a collaborative environment, this position supports students towards the achievement of academic, behavioural, cultural, and social goals in an inclusive learning environment.
Select Duties & Responsibilities
- Works at the direction of the teacher to provide active involvement and support to students during class as well as during small group and independent learning times, to reinforce Teacher instruction.
- Provides support inside and outside the classroom in the following areas:
- Behaviour management
- Resource preparation
- Curriculum implementation
- Social skills development
- Works in a dynamic team environment to collectively meet the needs of the students
- Exercises judgment in modifying student behaviour by re-directing and providing positive reinforcement within pre-established guidelines
- Collaborates with the Classroom Teacher to work with students to ensure they are achieving their academic, social and cultural learning goals
- Assists with the organization of the classroom as directed by the Classroom Teacher
- Accompanies the class on field trips
- Maintains strict confidentiality and security of our students’ information and records
- Notifies school administration of personal absence or leave requests immediately to ensure suitable coverage can be arranged
- To their best ability incorporates Haida content and understandings into interactions with students and school community
- Participates in extra curricular and community functions, ongoing professional growth and learning. CMS recognizes the value of continuous learning and expects an active demonstration and proactive attitude towards self-improvement and skill enhancement that might include, workshops, webinars, or obtaining certifications relevant to the role.
- Other duties as required to help support our vision, fulfill our mission and abide to our values
You Will Bring
- Grade 12 level education or equivalent
- Preference given to applicants that hold an Education Assistant and/or Community Support Certificate -OR- an equivalent combination of Training and Work Experience.
- Training and experience in assisting in a classroom environment; including applying behaviour management strategies
- Experience in working with First Nations students at the Elementary School level
- Knowledge of Haida culture an asset
- Training in Level 1 First Aid or better, or the willingness to obtain certification
- Positive attitude and willingness to learn and adapt to the job
Our Desired Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities For the Role
- Proven ability to successfully work and interact with children, youth, parents/guardians, staff, and visitors in a professional manner
- Effectively treats students in a respectful, responsible, and fair manner with consideration to the students’ social and psychological development
- Knowledge of sound intervention skills for behaviour and cognitive diversity
- Awareness of First Peoples Principles of Learning
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Strong verbal and written communication, and excellent interpersonal skills
- Dependable, self-motivated, high energy
- Good problem solving and decision-making abilities
- Ability to maintain a high level of ethical behaviour and confidentiality when dealing with students, peers and community
- Dedicated life-long learner and eagerness to have active participation in professional development opportunities
- Willingness to work on a variety of school projects that contribute to the professional and cultural goals of the school
- Must successfully pass a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check
Working Conditions/Physical Demands
- Fast-paced learning environment with regular interruptions
- Work environment is typically high-energy, loud and busy
- Regularly required to stand, walk and sit
- May be required to lift and move classroom supplies or other equipment
How to Apply
Are you interested in bringing your skills and experience to support a dynamic learning environment?
Please submit your resume with cover letter and 3 references to Mike Hart, Principal by email to admin@chiefmatthews.com
Position will remain open until filled.
Pursuant to Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to qualified applicants of Aboriginal ancestry.
We sincerely thank all applicants for their interest in a role with Chief Matthews School. Only applicants who are selected for an interview will be contacted.
