Learning Assistance Teacher, One Position

OLD MASSETT VILLAGE COUNCIL

Chief Matthews School

POSITION: Learning Assistance Teacher, One Position

NUMBER OF POSITIONS AVAILABLE: 1 position

REPORTS TO: Principal

JOB TYPE: Full Time, Year to Year

HOURLY RATE: $41.92-66.05/ hour, as per the SD 50 Teachers Salary Grid

ABOUT CHIEF MATTHEWS SCHOOL

At Chief Matthews School, we are committed to a student-centered approach including personalized learning, Xaad Kil and traditional teachings, while strengthening relationships with the community. To inspire and nurture respect for self, others, and the environment. 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 located in Old Massett. We serve both Old Massett and neighbouring Massett communities.

As a strong group of approximately 30 staff members consisting of teachers, Education Assistants, 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:

• 35-hour per week workplace that is engaging, dynamic and fun

• Competitive salary based upon the experience you bring and as per the SD 50 Teachers Salary grid

• Vacation during December and Spring Break holidays (4 weeks total)

• Enrolment in our health and dental benefits

• Eligibility to participate in our pension plan

• Professional development opportunities offered locally, and with First Nations Education Steering Committee

• Potential of relocation allowance and interim housing accommodations at the discretion of the hiring committee

ABOUT THE OPPORTUNITY

This position reports to the Principal. The Learning Assistance Teacher takes a student-first approach to promote a learning environment that supports our students’ sense of well-being. In collaboration with the school community, the Learning Assistance Teacher will implement structures, strategies and an encouraging and calm learning environment for students with varying needs and abilities to succeed academically, socially and emotionally. Haida language and principles are incorporated into the work of the Learning Assistance Teacher, who will adopt a teamwork approach with Education Assistants,Classroom Teachers and 1:1 Support Workers to ensure the diverse needs of students with challenges and exceptionalities are met in culturally relevant ways that support their growth and development

SELECT DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Taking the lead role in the development of IEPs (Individual Education Plans) for students

• Ensuring implementation of IEPs in collaboration with classroom teachers, support staff and parents/caregivers, including reviewing reports 3 times per year

• Playing a key role in managing funding from the FNESC (First Nations Education Steering Committee) SSEP (Support for Students with Exceptionalities Program) funding through data collection, reporting, record keeping and expense tracking to ensure continuity of funding by demonstrating deliverables and assisting in managing program outcomes

• Coordination of contracted professional services, such as Occupational Therapists, Speech and Language Pathologists, and Educational Psychologists to provide relevant assessments for students experiencing difficulties and receive advice on best practice strategies for student instruction

• Collaborating with colleagues and with student caregivers to ensure students are receiving services and support as recommended through assessment

• Delivering interventions for students who need additional assistance to meet expectations with foundational literacy and numeracy skills

• Preparing relevant educational objectives and outlines for courses of study, following proper curriculum guidelines and incorporating First Peoples Principles of Learning and a trauma-informed individualized creative approach

• Accessing related resources to support classroom inclusive, pull-out, and traditional methods of instruction

• Some individual and small group instruction for academic and social emotional learning support, as needed

• Evaluating student progress, recording results and issues, and informing teachers and parents of progress

• Connecting with community resources and accessing additional funding to ensure additional supports for students such as counseling, after-school programs, and other relevant supports

• Scheduling and leading classroom team meetings regarding students with IEPs or requiring adapted/modified learning strategies and resources

• Supporting school-based Haida Language and cultural activities, events and opportunities

• Participating in staff and professional meetings, educational conferences, and teacher training workshops

• Advocating for special education in our school and community when necessary

• Completing other duties as assigned within the same scope and job level

YOU WILL BRING

• Bachelor’s degree in education

• Current BC Teaching certificate

• Training and experience in primary and/or intermediate instruction

• Experience in teaching First Nations students at the primary level, particularly Haida culture, an asset

• Experience working with children and youth with exceptionalities

• Special Education Qualifications or willingness to pursue qualifications.

OUR DESIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES FOR THE ROLE INCLUDE

• Positive, enthusiastic, energetic and team-spirited teacher

• Proven ability to successfully work and interact with children, youth, parents/guardians, staff, and visitors in a professional manner

• Demonstrated ability to design, adapt, and modify curriculum to suit diverse needs

• Commitment to individualized and group instruction utilizing a variety of effective strategies and techniques

• 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

• Familiarity with Read Well, Corrective Reading, and Reading Mastery Literacy programs and JUMP Math programs would be an asset

• Awareness of First Peoples Principles of Learning; knowledge and understanding communities, cultural values and practices is an asset

• Strong organizational and time management skills and a good knowledge of teaching methods

• Strong verbal and written communication, and excellent interpersonal skills

• Dependable, self-motivated, high energy and able to work under little or no supervision

• Ability to work independently and in a remote educational environment

• Good problem solving and decision making

• Ability to maintain a high level of ethical behaviour and confidentiality when dealing with students, peers and community

• Dedicated lifelong learner

• Willingness to work on a variety of school projects that contribute to the professional and cultural goals of the school

WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Fast-paced school environment with regular interruptions

• Work environment is typically high-energy, loud and busy

• Regularly required to stand, walk and sit*

• Frequently lift and move school supplies and equipment*

*Note: Old Massett Village Council and Chief Matthews School are committed to a diverse and inclusive workforce- Qualified applicants who may have trouble with the physical requirements marked with an asterisk are still encouraged to apply, as we will do our best to accommodate persons with disabilities.

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 professional references to Mike Hart at m.hart@chiefmatthews.com . The position will remain open until filled.

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.