Position Overview
The Kitchenumaykoosib Inninuwug Education Authority seeks a dedicated Principal to lead the Aglace Chapman Education Centre, serving approximately 392 students from JK through Grade 12. This leadership role requires an educator who embraces the KEA's mission to provide holistic education that develops all parts of a child's being: mind, body, and spirit.
Key Responsibilities
Instructional Leadership: Ensure high-quality, culturally relevant instruction aligned with Ontario Ministry of Education standards and Indigenous pedagogical frameworks; support teachers in delivering engaging, differentiated lessons that honor traditional Oji-Cree knowledge and modern educational practices.
Community Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with students, families, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, and community leaders; collaborate regularly with the KEA Board and community stakeholders to ensure educational programming meets local needs and cultural values.
Student Success: Monitor and track student achievement, attendance, and engagement across all grade levels; implement early intervention strategies and promote mental health, wellness, and culturally safe learning environments that support students in "walking in both worlds" of traditional lifestyle and modern technology.
Operations Management: Oversee daily operations of the education centre, lead professional development initiatives, and support strategic planning, reporting, and budgeting in collaboration with the KEA leadership team and First Nation administration.
Cultural Leadership: Champion Indigenous language revitalization, land-based learning opportunities, and the integration of Oji-Cree culture, traditions, and values throughout the educational program.
Skills & Competencies:
- Exceptional communication, collaboration, and relationship-building abilities
- Proficiency in data analysis and evidence-based decision making
- Ability to foster culturally safe, professional learning environments
- Strong organizational, leadership, and problem-solving capabilities
Personal Attributes & Requirements:
The ideal candidate will demonstrate professionalism, trustworthiness, and adaptability, with excellent interpersonal and communication skills. They must be self-directed yet collaborative, able to manage stress effectively, maintain focus during extended periods, and adjust to the dynamic demands of leading a remote First Nations school.
Essential Personal Qualities:
- Cultural awareness and deep sensitivity to Indigenous communities and protocols
- Commitment to the KEA's mission, values, and educational philosophy
- Integrity, respect, and adherence to confidentiality standards
- Flexibility to work varied hours and participate in community events and traditional activities
Mandatory Requirements:
- (Preferred) Valid Class G driver's license
- Successful completion of a Vulnerable Sector Screening check
- Willingness to relocate to Big Trout Lake First Nation (fly-in community accessible year-round by air and by winter road during colder months)
- Ability to travel by small aircraft to other remote communities as required
Qualifications
Education & Certification:
- Bachelor of Education with Intermediate/Senior qualifications and valid Ontario College of Teachers (OCT) certification.
- Principal's Qualification Program Part 1 completed (commitment to complete Part 2 within the first year of employment)
Experience:
- Minimum 5 years of successful teaching experience, with preference for experience in Indigenous, remote, or First Nations communities
- Experience in school leadership, administration, and/or curriculum development is highly valued
- Knowledge of online/distance education delivery methods is an asset, given KEA's involvement with distance education programs
Professional Knowledge:
- Strong understanding of Ontario Ministry of Education curricula, special education requirements, and instructional best practices
- Comprehensive knowledge of Indigenous education frameworks, Truth and Reconciliation principles, and culturally responsive, Indigenous-centered educational approaches
- Deep respect for and understanding of First Nations cultures, traditions, languages (particularly Oji-Cree), and community contexts
This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in Indigenous education while experiencing the rich cultural heritage and traditional lifestyle of the Kitchenuhmaykoosib Inninuwug community. KEA seeks educators who understand that "the work is not always easy, yet the rewards and memories stay with our teachers forever".
Join us in making a difference in the lives of our students through effective leadership and a commitment to excellence in education!
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $119,443.00-$131,830.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company pension
- Dental care
- Extended health care
- Life insurance
Flexible language requirement:
Work Location: In person
