Relief First Nations Support Worker

About the role

School District No. 58 (Nicola-Similkameen) is hiring a First Nations Support Worker in Merritt on a temporary basis, 7 hours per day for 10 months per year. The district serves the communities of Merritt and Princeton, six First Nations Bands, the Métis and the Conayt Friendship Society, and offers programming to just over 2,075 students, 48% of whom are Indigenous. The successful applicant must be of Aboriginal ancestry in accordance with an approved special program under Section 42(3) of the British Columbia Human Rights Code.

Key responsibilities

• Assist with all aspects of student activities, including direct work with individuals or small groups of Aboriginal students under the Aboriginal Enhancement Agreement and the Local Education Agreement.
• Create a schedule for working with Aboriginal students with the school principals and the District Principal.
• Support programs that develop the educational, emotional, social and cultural abilities of Aboriginal students.
• Work with teachers, counselors and administrators to plan, organize and promote cultural pride and awareness.
• Help students identify their Aboriginal ancestry and collect data for the school and district.
• Monitor and track progress, attendance and concerns of vulnerable students and report to teachers, principals and counselors.
• Act as a liaison for community and cultural resources and as a role model and advocate for Aboriginal students, including career and life planning.
• Use conflict resolution methods with students and families, and may join team meetings and field trips.

Required profile

• Grade 12 plus 6 months of recent post-secondary study in human or social services, or equivalent.
• One year of recent experience with Aboriginal students and families in an educational or recreational setting.
• Cultural awareness of First Nations and Aboriginal communities.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students, families, teachers, principals and district staff.
• Ability to act as a cultural resource person in First Nations heritage and history with cultural sensitivity.

Applicants apply online with a cover letter, resume and three references; equivalent experience is considered. Only interviewees will be contacted.