FIRST NATION, METIS, INUIT STUDENT SUPPORT WORKER - STUDENT PROGRAMMING AND SUPPORT LIAISON

The Greater Essex County District School Board invites applications from interested, qualified individuals from members of its O.S.S.T.F. - P.S.S.P. Bargaining Unit for the position of First Nation, Metis, Inuit Student Support Worker - Student Programming and Support Liaison. This is a one (1) year contract position.
This is a permanent, 35 hour per week position that supports both elementary and secondary students. Applicants are encouraged to Self-Identify as the First Nations, Metis, Inuit Student Support Worker position is a designated position.

JOB SUMMARY:

TERM OF APPOINTMENT: One year contract position. Renewal of the position is contingent upon funding.
DUTIES COMMENCING: September 2025 - June 2026
REMUNERATION: $35.28- $40.80 hourly

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Demonstrated experience working directly with Indigenous children, youth, and families in a supportive, educational, or community-based setting.
• Experience in a liaison or advocacy role, connecting individuals to services and resources would be an asset.
• In-depth knowledge and understanding of diverse Indigenous cultures, histories, traditions, protocols, and contemporary issues in Canada.
• Familiarity with local Indigenous communities, their structures, and cultural practices.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills (oral and written), with the ability to build rapport and trust with diverse individuals and support student and family needs.
• Strong organizational, collaboration and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.
• Problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities.

• This position is responsible for the comprehensive coordination, planning, and delivery of cultural programming, with a particular emphasis on enriching land-based learning opportunities.
• The Liaison will serve as a vital link, ensuring that Indigenous students and their families in schools not directly assigned an First Nations, Metis, Inuit Student Support Worker receive seamless access to essential support services.
• Lead the coordination and planning of a diverse range of programs and events for K-12 Indigenous students and their families. This includes ensuring programming is consistently available each week, along with other special events throughout the year, ensuring all initiatives align with community needs and cultural protocols. (Programming will occur at times outside of regular school hours, requiring flexibility in work hours and evening availability.)
• Develop and implement land-based learning opportunities that connect students to traditional knowledge, and practices.
• Collaborate with Indigenous Knowledge Holders, community organizations, and families to design and deliver culturally relevant and authentic learning experiences.
• Manage logistical aspects of programming, including scheduling, venue booking, material procurement, transportation, and communication.
• Actively participate in and facilitate cultural activities, providing direct support and guidance to students and families.
• Ensure all programming is culturally safe, respectful, and reflective of Indigenous worldviews and pedagogies.
• Maintain accurate records of program participation, activities, and outcomes.
• Prepare comprehensive reports on programming impact, challenges, and successes for internal and external stakeholders, contributing to ongoing program development and evaluation.
• Work with Indigenous Lead to report budget expenditures related to programming with adherence to financial guidelines.
• Track budget expenditures related to programming with adherence to financial guidelines.
• Serve as the primary point of contact and advocate for Indigenous students and their families in schools that do not have a dedicated Indigenous Student Support Worker assigned to them.
• Serve as a bridge connecting connecting students and families with appropriate school-based resources and services (e.g., academic support, mental health services, special education).
• Facilitate communication and understanding between school staff, Indigenous students, and their families, ensuring that student needs are clearly understood and addressed in a culturally sensitive manner.
• Collaborate with school administration and staff to identify barriers to student success and work towards culturally appropriate solutions.
• Assist families in navigating educational systems and accessing community-based Indigenous support services (e.g., health clinics, cultural centres, family services).
• Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with Indigenous students, families, school staff, and community partners.
• Conduct outreach to foster engagement and ensure families feel supported and welcome within the school system