We'koqma'q Mi'kmaw School is seeking a dedicated and culturally grounded Vice-Principal to help lead our vibrant learning community, where Mi’kmaw language, values, and land-based education are at the heart of student success.
The Vice-Principal at We'koqma'q Mi’kmaw School plays a vital role in supporting the Principal and contributing to the educational and cultural leadership of the school. This position is rooted in the promotion of Mi’kmaw language, values, and traditions while ensuring alignment with provincial academic standards. The Vice-Principal works under the direction of the Principal and the Director of Education, and in accordance with We'koqma'q Education policy and MK strategies.
The Vice-Principal is expected to lead specific initiatives, mentor staff, and foster a culturally safe and inclusive learning environment. In the absence of the Principal, the Vice-Principal assumes full leadership responsibility.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
Leadership and School Climate
Support the Principal in championing Mi’kmaw language, culture, and community engagement.
Promote a respectful and inclusive school climate grounded in Mi’kmaw worldview.
Assist in integrating Mi’kmaw language into daily routines, ceremonies, and instruction.
Maintain open communication with families, Elders, and community members.
Lead school-wide initiatives that reflect community values and priorities.
Programming
Collaborate with the Principal and educators to implement culturally responsive curriculum.
Take leadership in coordinating cultural and land-based learning activities.
Support L’nui’suti (Mi’kmaw language) programming and traditional teachings.
Ensure inclusive practices for students with diverse learning needs.
Ensure interaction with students is from a trauma informed lens and meet challenging behaviour with action not punishment.
School Organization and Staffing
Assist in staff recruitment and onboarding, emphasizing cultural responsiveness.
Lead scheduling efforts for cultural programming and Elder visits.
Organize and facilitate staff meetings focused on reflection and best practices.
Support student registration and data management using MKSIS.
Professional Development
Mentor staff in culturally responsive pedagogy and trauma-informed practices.
Coordinate professional development opportunities in collaboration with the Principal and Director of Education.
Encourage staff participation in community events and land-based learning.
Staff Supervision and Evaluation
Provide mentorship and guidance to staff, especially new teachers.
Conduct staff evaluations in collaboration with the Principal.
Manage substitute coverage and staff leave requests.
Monitor staff attendance and provide support where needed.
Ensure MKSIS planning and attendance records are maintained accurately.
Student Well-being, Culture, and Supervision
Promote student leadership and identity through cultural teachings.
Supervise students with attention to Mi’kmaw values and restorative practices.
Coordinate cultural events and celebrations with community involvement.
Liaise with external agencies in culturally appropriate ways.
Student Evaluation and Reporting
Support holistic student assessment practices.
Facilitate student-led conferences and parent engagement.
Review report card comments for cultural alignment and clarity.
Student Evaluation and Reporting
Maintain respectful and transparent communication with families and community.
Share school updates through bilingual newsletters and social media.
Celebrate student achievements through culturally grounded events.
Budgeting and Resource Management
Assist in budget planning to support cultural and language programming.
Ensure resources are used responsibly and reflect community priorities.
Health, Safety, and Facility Supervision
Support the creation of a safe and welcoming school environment.
Conduct safety drills and health protocols with cultural sensitivity.
Monitor facilities to ensure they support both academic and cultural learning.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Bachelor’s Degree in Education is required.
A Master’s Degree in Education, preferably with a focus on educational leadership or administration, is preferred.
A minimum or 5+ years of teaching experience.
Demonstrated leadership in curriculum, staff mentorship, or school initiatives.
A valid Nova Scotia teaching certificate is required.
REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS
This position reports to:
Director, Education
CONTACTS
Internal Contacts
Principal – Collaborates daily on school operations, planning, and leadership.
Director of Education – Reports on school progress, staffing, and cultural initiatives.
Teaching and Support Staff – Provides mentorship, supervision, and professional development support.
Students – Engages in supervision, leadership development, and cultural programming.
Administrative Staff – Coordinates scheduling, attendance, and school communications.
Custodial and Maintenance Staff – Ensures facilities support cultural and academic learning.
External Contacts
Parents and Guardians – Maintains open communication and supports student success through engagement.
Elders and Knowledge Keepers – Collaborates on cultural programming and language integration.
Community Leaders and Organizations – Partners on events, land-based learning, and student support.
Mi’kmaw Kina’matnewey (MK) – Aligns school practices with MK strategies and reporting requirements.
Health and Social Services – Coordinates student well-being and support services.
RCMP and Emergency Services – Engages in safety planning and culturally appropriate crisis response.
Post-secondary Institutions and Professional Networks – Supports staff development and student transitions.
WORKING CONDITIONS
The Vice-Principal works primarily on-site at We'koqma'q Mi’kmaw School, with occasional travel for professional development, community engagement, or cultural events.
Standard work hours align with the school schedule, typically Monday to Friday, with flexibility required for early mornings, evenings, or weekends to support school functions, student supervision, or community programming.
The Vice-Principal is expected to return to work one week before classes begin in late summer to support staff preparation, scheduling, and cultural programming.
The Vice-Principal also works one week after school closes in June to complete administrative tasks, finalize reports, and prepare for the upcoming school year.
The role involves frequent interaction with students, staff, families, and community members in a dynamic and culturally rich environment.
The Vice-Principal may be required to work outdoors during land-based learning activities and cultural events, in varying weather conditions.
The position requires the ability to manage multiple priorities, respond to urgent situations, and maintain a calm and respectful demeanor under pressure.
Physical demands may include walking across campus, participating in cultural activities, and occasional lifting or setup for events.
The Vice-Principal must maintain confidentiality, cultural sensitivity, and professionalism at all times.
Deadline for applications is August 27, 2025
