Gwich’in Language and Culture teacher

F.H. Collins Secondary School – Gwich’in Language and Culture Teacher (Grades 8‑12)

School: F.H. Collins Secondary

Location:

Whitehorse
Position:
Gwich’in Language and Culture teacher (8‑12)
FTE: 1.0

Start Date:

August 20, 2026
End Date:
June 11, 2027

The successful candidate will be a full member of the teaching staff and report directly to the Principal. The role is critical in the development and implementation of the Gwich’in Language & Culture program. Responsibilities include teaching, promoting, and supporting the Gwich’in language and culture across the school, building positive relationships with students and staff, and ensuring an engaging, culturally relevant program.

• Demonstrated language proficiency (read, write and speak) to deliver the Gwich’in language and culture program at the secondary school level
• Demonstrated and ongoing commitment to improving language proficiency
• Extensive knowledge and awareness of Yukon First Nations / Gwich’in First Nation culture, traditional practices, values, beliefs, and a good understanding of past and current issues in education, heritage and languages

• Strong interest and ability to teach Gwich’in
• Solid classroom management skills
• Ability to adapt and modify curriculum to address students’ needs and gifts to ensure success in the program
• Ability to connect and collaborate with teachers, school‑based staff, parents and/or caregivers
• Willingness to actively promote Gwich’in and culture within school programming and environment
• Team‑oriented, enthusiastic participation in staff meetings, school‑wide functions and initiatives, and Yukon First Nations Language Teacher professional development
• Develop collaborative relationships with language professionals at Kwanlin Dün First Nation, Ta’an Kwäch’än Council, (and other Yukon First Nations) and Yukon Native Language Centre

Preference will be given to Gwich’in language qualified citizens of the Vuntut Gwitchin First Nation.

• Criminal Record/RCMP Check with Vulnerable Sector, dated no more than 3 months prior to the start date
• Yukon Teacher Certification required
• Yukon First Nations 101 to be completed at the first opportunity