Indigenous Support Worker

About New Westminster Schools

As one of the fastest growing districts in Metro-Vancouver, we are working hard to support a diverse and very connected community of students, staff and families throughout our schools. We currently have eight elementary schools, three middle schools, one high school, three alternate programs, two Provincial Online Learning options (a teacher-guided Home Learners Program for K-8 and Online Learning options for 9-12), and continuing education options. For the younger learners we also offer a combination of StrongStart programs, childcare options and a pilot pre-school. We are passionate about innovation, as we strive to create learning opportunities and environments that support and inspire all students, staff and families in our community.

Through collaboration we are transforming learning experiences, to ensure that New Westminster Schools is a place where everyone loves to learn. Our district is deeply committed to building meaningful relationships, as we work to address the barriers that some people in our school communities face. This includes actively working to address issues around diversity, inclusion, equity, anti-racism, mental health and wellbeing, and food security for students and families.

Typical functions of this position include but are not limited to:

• Reports directly to the Principal at assigned schools
• Responsible to the District Vice-Principal of Indigenous Education
• Provides support to the District Indigenous Education Program to successfully meet the needs of students in the classroom and specifically to the programs at assigned schools
• Provide academic, social and cultural support to Aboriginal children
• Assist and direct in the delivery of educational support services to Indigenous children
• Organize and facilitate parent meetings
• Educate students regarding Indigenous culture, history and traditions
• Organize and facilitate culturally relevant experiences for students both in the school and in the community
• Promote and/or facilitate involvement of Indigenous students in school and community based recreational and sports activities; may involve transporting students to District and/or out of District events
• Facilitate parental involvement in school and community functions
• Provide documentation of parent consultations and maintain student records related to student progress including academic, attendance and tracking forms
• Advocate for Indigenous students and their families
• Provide outreach services including home visits and other needs as required
• Participate in School Based Team meetings, planning meetings and Indigenous Education Advisory meetings as required
• Liaise among parents, teachers, administrators and community agencies (e.g. Ministry of Children & Family Development, Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada, and Band Contacts)
• Willingness to participate in related in-service and assist in presenting in-service to other staff
• Other related duties as assigned

Qualifications & Experience:

• Completion of Grade 12
• Completion of a two-year diploma program in Indigenous studies, a Child & Youth Care program, or equivalent, from a post secondary institution recognized by the District
• Minimum of 23 years of recent related experience and/or training in working within the K-12 public school system with Indigenous students and their parents
• Understanding of Indigenous cultural traditions, protocols, history and contemporary issues
• Demonstrated ability to work effectively with students, parents and community resources as an integral part of a school based team
• Proven ability to express ideas effectively both orally and in writing
• Demonstrated expertise to facilitate class presentations on Indigenous history and culture, with the ability to explain information and instructions to others
• Ability to use a computer and standard classroom and office equipment
• Intermediate level skill with computer programs, including Microsoft Office
• Indigenous ancestry would be an asset

Additional Information:

• Temporary assignment working 35 hours per week, Monday - Friday, while school is in session, ending June 30, 2025
• $34.54 per hour

Application Process:

To apply for this position, click on the APPLY button on this page. Please include your resume, including copies of certificates or diplomas and references. Only those applicants selected for an interview will be contacted. School District No. 40 (New Westminster) is an equal opportunity employer. Satisfactory completion of a Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check is a legislated requirement for the successful candidate.

Acknowledgements: The New Westminster School District recognizes and acknowledges the Qayqayt First Nation, as well as all Coast Salish peoples, on whose traditional and unceded territories we live, we learn, we play and we do our work. New Westminster Schools welcomes and encourages applications from women, visible minorities, indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation, any gender identity or gender expression. If you require an accommodation through our hiring process, please include your request in an email to [email protected]. Learn more about New Westminster Schools at www.makeafuture.ca/new-westminster or newwestschools.ca.