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Job Title


Director of Education


Company : Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation


Location : Tofino, British Columbia


Created : 2025-06-22


Job Type : Full Time


Job Description

Department/Group: Education Department #: 300Location: Tofino. BCRate of pay: 86,590-99,270Reports To: Tribal AdministratorThe Director of Education is responsible for the overall development, implementation, and management of educational programs, and cultural initiatives within the Tla-o-qui-aht Nation. This includes overseeing Early Childhood Education, preschool programs, public and homeschool education, language programs, and youth and support services. The Director will foster partnerships with educational and government entities to ensure the effective delivery of services that align with the Nations cultural values, vision, and community needs. This position will also lead staff, manage resources, and advocate for students to ensure access to educational opportunities and a culturally relevant learning environment.Cultural Commitment:The Director of Education is expected to promote and integrate the cultural teachings, language, and values of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation into all educational and social programs, ensuring that these are meaningful and relevant to students, families, and the community. The role requires the candidate to actively foster a learning environment that respects the heritage of the Nation while supporting the educational success of its members.Key Responsibilities:1. Program Oversight and Coordination: Implement and manage the delivery of educational programs, including early childhood, preschool, primary, secondary, and language programs, ensuring alignment with the Nations cultural values. Oversee, ensuring they meet community needs. Establish and maintain relationships with school districts, educational agencies, and other community organizations. Collaborate with government agencies to secure and manage funding for educational, cultural, daycare, youth, language and social programs. Organize and facilitate key cultural and educational events, including graduation ceremonies and post-secondary opportunities. Foster a culturally aware educational environment, bridging cultural gaps within schools and the community.2. Leadership and Staff Management: Supervise, mentor, and provide guidance to program managers and staff within educational department. Support recruitment, training, professional development, and performance management of staff. Create a positive, culturally sensitive, and collaborative work environment that upholds the values of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nation. Lead inter-departmental initiatives to ensure integrated service delivery across programs. Address conflicts and provide leadership to ensure programs meet community needs.3. Financial Management and Fundraising: Oversee and manage the department's budget, ensuring compliance with funding agreements and financial reporting standards. Identify alternative funding sources and collaborate with stakeholders to secure grants and financial support for educational and social programs. Monitor expenditures to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability of programs.4. Community Engagement and Advocacy: Advocate for students, families, and the broader community by ensuring they receive necessary resources and support to succeed in the educational system. Promote cultural awareness and educational inclusion in schools and across the community. Serve as a liaison and advocate between the Nation and external stakeholders, including schools, government agencies, and other organizations. Foster strong relationships with parents, students, and community members to encourage active participation in educational programs.5. Program Evaluation and Improvement: Lead evaluations of educational and social programs to ensure they meet the needs of students and the community. Collect and analyze data on program effectiveness, student outcomes, and feedback from stakeholders. Use data to recommend adjustments and improvements to educational and social development programs.6. Reporting and Compliance: Prepare regular reports for the, and funding agencies on program progress, financial performance, and outcomes. Ensure compliance with all relevant policies, standards, and funding conditions. Participate in community meetings and decision-making processes as required.Qualifications: Education and Experience: Post-secondary degree or diploma in education, or a related field. At least 5 years of experience in a leadership or managerial role within education or social services. Proven experience in program management, staff supervision, financial oversight, and community engagement.Preferred Assets: Masters degree in education, human services, or a related field. Experience working with Indigenous communities and understanding of Indigenous educational needs. Knowledge of grant writing and securing funding from diverse sources.Knowledge and Skills: In-depth knowledge of the Tla-o-qui-aht First Nations culture, language, and values, as well as provincial and federal education systems. Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills. Ability to build partnerships and collaborate effectively with government agencies, schools, and other community organizations. Experience with program evaluation and data analysis to inform decisions. Proven ability to manage budgets and financial records, ensuring compliance with funder requirements.Additional Requirements: Must pass a criminal record check (vulnerable sector). Valid drivers license and reliable transportation for travel to off-site locations. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, or extended hours as needed.Working Conditions: Primarily office-based with travel required to community meetings, off-site locations, and conferences. Occasional exposure to high-stress situations, including managing multiple priorities simultaneously. Physical requirements may include prolonged periods of sitting and working with data.Applications will be accepted until May 30, 2025. Submit your resume and cover letter demonstrating how you meet these qualifications to: Lis Kingsley, Human Resources Manager Email: or drop at the office in a sealed envelope at #1119-A Pacific Rim Highway, Tofino. Only applicants selected for an interview will be contactedCompanyTla-o-qui-aht First NationLocationTofinoContact InfoApplications will be accepted until May 30, 2025.Submit your resume and cover letter demonstrating how you meet these qualifications to: Lis Kingsley, Human Resources ManagerEmail: or drop at the office in a sealed envelope at #1119-A Pacific Rim Highway, Tofino.Only applicants selected for an interview will be contactedThe video Nature's Guardians displays the traditions behind Indigenous stewardship of the lands and waters #J-18808-Ljbffr