Native Language Teacher

Location: Northwestern Ontario (Red Lake)

Enjoy these benefits and more!

1 week paid March Break

2 weeks paid Christmas Break

Comprehensive Benefits Package

Ontario Teachers' Pension Plan

Generous Sick Leave

The Native Language Teacher is responsible for delivering high-quality, culturally immersive Indigenous language programming (Oji-Cree, Ojibwe, or Cree, depending on the community).

The successful candidate will breathe life into the language by integrating traditional knowledge, land-based learning, and First Nations ways of knowing, seeing, doing, and being. This role is crucial in revitalizing youth identity, enhancing student self-esteem, and building a supportive learning environment rooted in the community’s values.

Location
Northwestern Ontario (Community-based / Northern First Nation Classrooms)

Salary
up to $120,369 per annum (Commensurate with QECO rating, certification, and experience; subsidized housing and northern allowances may apply depending on the specific community placement)

Instruction & Curriculum Development
Plan, prepare, and deliver engaging Native Language lessons across assigned grade levels (K–8 or High School/KiHS settings).

Develop culturally relevant curriculum materials, visual aids, and interactive resources that reflect local dialects and traditions.

Infuse traditional teachings, stories, and history into Ministry of Education-approved language curriculum outcomes.

Accommodate and modify lesson plans for students with diverse academic abilities, learning difficulties, or special needs, collaborating closely with the Special Education team.

Cultural & Land-Based Integration
Collaborate with local Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and Cultural Coordinators to bring authentic community teachings into the classroom.

Organize and participate in land-based education activities (such as seasonal harvesting, cooking, traditional crafts, and outdoor language learning).

Model and promote core Indigenous values: respect for the Creator, self-reliance, truth, honesty, generosity, and sharing.

Assessment & Student Support
Maintain accurate classroom records, track language acquisition progress, and prepare report cards/progress updates.

Keep regular, meaningful contact with parents, guardians, and local Education Authorities regarding student achievements and well-being.

Maintain a safe, respectful, and organized classroom atmosphere that emphasizes holistic student wellness (Mental, Spiritual, Physical, and Emotional).

Professional & Team Responsibilities
Participate actively in school-wide activities and professional development opportunities recommended by KOBE, when requested by Community Schools.

Maintain strict professional ethics and confidentiality regarding all student and community matters.

Qualifications and Requirements

Language Fluency :
Must be fully fluent in speaking, reading, and writing the local target language (Oji-Cree / Anishininiimowin, Ojibwe / Anishinaabemowin, or Cree / Ininiwmowin).

Education & Certification :
Possession of (or eligibility for) a valid Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) Certificate. Alternative:
Successful completion of an accredited Indigenous Language Teacher’s Diploma program (e.g., Lakehead University’s KITEP/Anishinaabemowik program) or equivalent certified elder/knowledge keeper status recognized by the Board.

Cultural Knowledge :
Deep lived experience and a profound understanding of Northwestern Ontario First Nations heritage, values, and community dynamics.

Technical Skills :
Comfortable using educational software and classroom technology (vital for KOBE’s blended and synchronized digital learning platforms like KiHS).

Background Check :
Must provide a clean and satisfactory Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check.

Preferred Attributes

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills in both English and the native language.

Ability to work independently with minimal supervision while maintaining strong collaborative links to the KOBE network.

Resilience, flexibility, and a passion for community-driven Indigenous youth education.

Hiring preference is given to members of the KO First Nations, and secondly to indigenous individuals from outside the KO First Nations. Qualified members of First Nations are encouraged to apply.

Covid 19 immunization is a requirement for employment at KOBE.

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