Department Information

Join the dedicated team at SSDEC, responsible for delivering exceptional K-12 education to five vibrant communities in the South Slave region of the Northwest Territories. Our eight schools are the heart of communities rich in northern traditions and boast a combined student population of 1,300.

Job Information

JBT School is a Junior Kindergarten to grade 6 school with 270 students. Students and staff focus on four simple expectations: Pride, Respect. Ownership and Safety (PROS). Literacy is a primary focus as all students are active in Rufus Reading Club. We also pride ourselves on our open-door policy and our school benefits from parent/community support. At JBT, the school helps to create futures through a number of diverse programs, and activities, including culture camps, primary/STEM activity days, literacy activities, student achievement awards and celebrating our weekly bucket fillers. About the Role The Cree Teacher will lead and support Cree language instruction across grade levels, working collaboratively with classroom teachers to integrate language and culture into daily learning. This role is ideal for someone deeply connected to the community, with strong cultural knowledge and a commitment to passing on language and traditions to younger generations.

Key Responsibilities

- Plan and deliver Cree language instruction for students across multiple grades
- Integrate cultural teachings, traditions, and land-based knowledge into language learning
- Support classroom teachers in embedding language and culture across the curriculum
- Create engaging, hands-on, and culturally relevant learning experiences
- Serve as a cultural resource and mentor for students and staff
- Participate in and lead land-based education activities
- Collaborate with Elders, families, and community members to support programming
- Assist in the development of culturally appropriate learning materials and resources

Qualifications and Experience





- Strong understanding and proficiency in Cree language
- Deep knowledge of local Dene culture, traditions, and land-based practices
- Experience working with children and/or in an educational setting is an asset
- Ability to communicate effectively and build positive relationships with students and staff
- Willingness to work collaboratively and contribute to a team environment

Preferred Attributes

- Experience or interest in curriculum development for Indigenous language learning
- Comfort working in a classroom setting alongside teachers
- Flexibility and creativity in delivering language instruction

What We Offer:

- Market-competitive salary: approximately $95,232 - $153,748 annually
- Additional benefits including a Northern Allowance ($7,100 year) and relocation expenses, as well as an administrative stipend.
- Opportunity to be part of a community with rich cultural heritage

Learn More:

- NWT Teachers' Association Collective Agreement:

https://my.hr.gov.nt.ca/resources/terms-employment/nwtta-collective-agre...

- About the SSDEC: www.ssdec.net
- Application Process: Submit your cover letter, resume, educational philosophy (1-page

max.), and references (including current supervisor) to Renee Closs, SSDEC Superintendent, [email protected] or/and Cora America, Assistant Superintendent, at [email protected]

Requirements:

- Eligibility for NWT teacher certification
- Satisfactory criminal records and vulnerable sector checks (post-interview stage)

Note:
- Please indicate your eligibility for priority consideration under the GNWT's Indigenous Employment Policy
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- This posting may be used to fill future vacancies

GNWT Inquiries

Inquiries Only: Fort Smith HR Client Service Centre

Department of Finance

Government of the Northwest Territories

195 MCDOUGAL ROAD

BOX 876

FORT SMITH, NT X0E 0P0

Tel (867) 872-8242

Fax (867) 872-3298

[email protected]

Note: If you do not receive electronic notification confirming receipt of your application, please follow up via telephone.

📌 Language Cultural Specialist - Cree (Fort Smith)
🏢 Government of the Northwest Territories
📍 Fort Smith