FTE Elementary Ojibwe Language Teacher

Elementary Ojibwe Language Teacher

The successful candidate will be an individual who firmly believes in creating spaces where student success is achieved through culturally responsive instruction, meaningful relationships, and the preservation and revitalization of Anishinaabe language, culture and traditions. This two-year grant funded position represents an exciting opportunity to help expand and strengthen Ojibwe language and culture programming at Cloquet schools, creating a lasting foundation that will positively impact students and the district's Ojibwe language offerings for years to come.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Develops and delivers an elementary Ojibwe language and culture curriculum aligned with district goals, Minnesota academic standards, and Indigenous education best practice.
• Promotes a learning environment that is safe, welcoming, culturally responsive, and conductive to student learning and positive relationships.
• Develops engaging lesson plans and instructional materials that integrate Ojibwe language, traditions, stories, songs, seasonal teachings, and cultural values into meaningful learning experiences.
• Incorporates culturally relevant teaching strategies, hands-on learning, storytelling, music, art, and land-based learning experiences, when appropriate, to support student engagement and language acquisition.
• Conducts ongoing assessment of student learning and language development and adjust instructional methods to meet the diverse needs of all learners.
• Collaborates with classroom teachers to integrate Ojibwe language and cultural perspectives across the elementary curriculum when appropriate.
• Builds positive relationships with students, families, colleagues, elders, community members, and Tribal partners to support authentic learning experiences and strengthen school/community connections.
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge by participating in professional learning related to Ojibwe language revitalization, culturally responsive teaching, American Indian Education, and best practices.
• Organizes and maintains accurate records of student progress, attendance, and assessment data in accordance with district procedures.
• Encourages family engagement and maintains effective communication with parents and caregivers regarding student progress and learning opportunities.
• Selects and maintains appropriate instructional materials, technology, and culturally relevant resources to support Ojibwe language instruction.
• Participates in school events, cultural activities, staff meetings, professional learning communities, and district committees as assigned.

Preferences:

• Fluency or advanced proficiency in the Ojibwe (Anishinaabemowin) language.
• Knowledge of Anishinaabe history, traditions, values lifeways, and cultural teachings.
• Experience teaching Ojibwe language and culture at the elementary level.
• Understanding of language revitalization strategies and best practices for Indigenous language instruction.
• Ability to develop engaging, age-appropriate, culturally responsive lessons that promote language acquisition and cultural identity.
• Strong classroom management and relationship-building skills that create a safe, inclusive, and supportive learning environment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Experience using instructional technology and creative teaching strategies to enhance student engagement.
• Willingness to contribute to the continued growth and sustainability of Ojibwe language programming within Cloquet Schools.

Qualifications/Licensing Requirements:

• Have a B.A. degree and current Minnesota teaching license issued by PELSB in Ojibwe or American Indian Language and culture, or the ability to obtain appropriate licensure prior to the start of employment.
• Have a current Minnesota teaching license issued by PELSB in Elementary Education with sufficient experience teaching Ojibwe Language.
• Knowledge of effective instructional practices, classroom management, and culturally responsive teaching strategies.

Salary & Benefits:

The starting pay for this position (at a 1.0 FTE) is between $47,172 - $71,798 and is based on FTE and the current Ed MN Contract. Your initial placement is dependent on your qualifications (education and years of relevant experience). We are proud to offer a wide array of benefits to our employees, including medical, dental, life, long-term disability, long-term care, an employee assistance program, and retirement contributions.

How to Apply:

Final date to receive applications is July 31, 2026. Individuals who wish to be considered for this position must apply online at  Only qualified and appropriately licensed individuals will be considered for an interview. For any inquiries or questions regarding the position, please contact Teresa Angell, Director of American Indian Education at tangell or .

FLSA Status:
Exempt