Position Summary
Seabird Island is committed to revitalizing and preserving Halq’eméylem language and culture. We are dedicated to creating a culturally safe and inclusive environment that respects and values Indigenous knowledge, traditions, and ways of being. We are seeking a Halq’eméylem Teacher to join our team, working collaboratively to enhance the educational experience of students and support the revitalization of the Halq’eméylem language.
Under the direction of the School Principal, the Halq’eméylem Teacher provides culturally informed language instruction to students at the elementary and/or secondary level. This role involves planning, delivering, and assessing engaging lessons that foster language learning, cultural pride, and student success. The Halq’eméylem Teacher will also participate in school activities, maintain positive relationships with families, and contribute to ongoing language revitalization initiatives.
This position has a start date of August 25th, 2025, and an end date of June 30th, 2026.
What You'll Do
Curriculum Planning & Instruction
Prepare, develop, and implement Halq’eméylem language lessons and activities in alignment with BC curriculum and Seabird Island’s cultural goals.
Deliver instruction to elementary and/or high school students using engaging, age-appropriate methods.
Integrate traditional knowledge, oral history, and cultural teachings into classroom activities.
Develop and adapt teaching materials and resources in Halq’eméylem.
Support students' oral fluency, literacy, and cultural understanding.
Assessment & Reporting
Assess and evaluate student learning and language development.
Maintain accurate records of student progress.
Prepare report cards and participate in parent-teacher conferences.
Collaborate with school staff to support student learning needs.
School & Community Engagement
Maintain regular communication with parents, caregivers, and community members.
Promote Halq’eméylem language use outside the classroom and across the school.
Participate in school functions, staff meetings, cultural events, and field trips.
Collaborate with Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community language leaders.
Professional Responsibilities
Engage in ongoing professional development, including Halq’eméylem language learning if not fluent.
Follow all policies and procedures set by Seabird Island Community School and the BC Ministry of Education.
Maintain a professional, supportive, and respectful classroom environment.
Other Duties
Additional responsibilities as needed to support the community and uphold our shared values.
Working / Special Conditions
Initial and ongoing employment is subject to submission of a clear Criminal Record Review Program Check to ensure the safety and trust of the communities we serve. This check will be conducted every five years.
Initial and ongoing commitment to the values and guidelines of Sq'éwqel (Seabird Island Band), including our policies, procedures, standards of practice, and laws, is essential. This commitment supports our collective work, the community, and the responsibilities of this role.
What You Bring
Bachelor’s degree in Education or higher, and current practicing British Columbia (BC) Certified Teacher qualifications OR Eligible for B.C. Certification and seeking teacher training and practicum at an Elementary or High School.
Complete understanding and fluency in the Halq’emeylem Language and understanding of culture and traditions impacting the language.
Knowledge, respect and understanding of Stó:l? culture, traditions and language is considered a requirement.
Standard First Aid and CPR certification.
Demonstrated ability to implement age-appropriate literacy strategies.
Strong classroom management skills.
The ability and energy to work with multi-age groups and meet the needs of students with a range of learning styles and abilities using a variety of teaching strategies.
The ability and desire to work closely with colleagues in a team-oriented approach to teaching and learning.
Experience working within Indigenous communities and applying culturally safe practices.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
Preferred:
Indigenous candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Lived experience as a member of a First Nations community.
Knowledge and understanding of Seabird Island’s culture, traditions, teachings, community dynamics.
Ability to respond quickly and professionally to community or colleague needs and inquiries.
An interest in outdoor land-based education.
Strong interest in innovation and inquiry.
Cultural Competency:
Understanding of Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contemporary issues.
Understanding of intergenerational trauma and its impacts on Indigenous peoples and communities.
How to Apply
Have a question about this role before you apply? Email careers@seabirdisland.ca.
Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter sharing how your experience aligns with this role.
Pre-Employment Screening
Seabird Island is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. We are committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion. We recognize and value the unique perspectives, experiences, and contributions that Indigenous people bring to our team. We actively encourage applications from Indigenous people. Pursuant to S. 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants of First Nations, Métis, or Inuit heritage. We are interested in every qualified candidate who is eligible to work in Canada; however, we are not able to sponsor visas.
Employment is conditional upon completing pre-employment screening to ensure a safe and secure work environment in which students, staff, members, families, community, as well as resources, and assets are protected. All background checks, reference checks and criminal record checks are performed in accordance with Seabird Island Human Resources Policy Manual, protecting the integrity and confidentiality of information gathered during the evaluation.
We thank you for your interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.
