School Principal - Must live at Tsay Keh Dene Nation

School Principal – Must Live in Tsay Keh Dene Nation

Reports To: Director of Education

Department: Education

Job Type: Full-Time / Permanent

Hours of Work: 40 hours per week, Monday – Friday

Salary: $110,000 – $120,000

About Tsay Keh Dene Community School

Tsay Keh Dene Community School provides education for students from Kindergarten to Grade ___ in a small, community-centered learning environment. The school focuses on academic achievement, cultural learning, and supporting the well‑being of all students.

The school works closely with Tsay Keh Dene Nation leadership, families, and community members to ensure that education reflects both provincial learning outcomes and the cultural values of the Nation.

The principal plays a key leadership role in strengthening education, supporting teachers, and building strong relationships within the community.

Job Summary

The Principal is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the school and ensuring that school policies, regulations, and procedures are followed. The Principal ensures that all students are supervised in a safe, respectful, and welcoming learning environment.

The Principal works closely with all school staff to provide leadership in curriculum delivery, financial and administrative processes, scheduling, extracurricular activities, emergency operations, facilities management, and student conduct and discipline. The Principal serves as a role model and supports staff and students in achieving an optimal educational experience.

Other duties may be assigned as required.

Key Responsibilities

• Set performance objectives for students and teachers.
• Implement and monitor school policies and safety protocols.
• Oversee administrative functions and daily school operations.
• Develop programs to improve student achievement and teacher performance.
• Meet with parents to discuss student progress and concerns.
• Implement curriculum programs aligned with provincial and First Nation education guidelines.
• Establish goals and benchmarks to monitor academic progress.
• Coordinate staff schedules to ensure effective operations.

Academic Functions

• Monitor instructional and operational processes to ensure programs align with educational outcomes.
• Implement improvements where necessary to strengthen academic performance.
• Consult regularly with school committees regarding planning, supervision, and evaluation of the education program.
• Include students and community representatives where appropriate.
• Promote high academic standards and encourage student personal growth, responsibility, and character development.
• Oversee curriculum implementation, extracurricular activities, and student discipline.
• Ensure a safe and welcoming learning environment.

School Morale and Culture

• Provide instructional resources and support for teaching staff.
• Promote teamwork and collaboration among staff members.
• Encourage staff participation in decision‑making processes.
• Ensure effective communication between staff, students, parents, and the community.
• Promote high expectations for staff and student performance.
• Recognize excellence and achievements.
• Address and resolve conflicts promptly and fairly.
• Demonstrate ethical and professional leadership at all times.

School Improvement

• Develop a shared vision for school improvement with staff.
• Lead planning activities to support the school's mission and educational goals.
• Establish annual school performance objectives.
• Maintain systems and records to track progress.
• Promote a structured and positive learning environment that encourages accountability and high morale.

Personnel Management

• Interview, select, and orient new staff members.
• Establish expectations for staff performance and classroom management.
• Observe employee performance and conduct evaluation meetings.
• Provide recommendations to the Director of Education regarding disciplinary actions when required.
• Support staff professional development and improvement planning.

Student Management

• Develop and implement a student discipline system that promotes positive behavior.
• Ensure disciplinary practices are fair, consistent, and aligned with school policies.
• Notify appropriate authorities when concerns arise regarding child protection or student safety.
• Conduct meetings with parents, students, and teachers regarding student matters.
• Review and sign student report cards.
• Recognize student achievements in academic, athletic, and community activities.

Administrative and Facility Management

• Oversee the use and maintenance of school facilities.
• Ensure a clean, safe, and well‑maintained learning environment.
• Ensure compliance with Tsay Keh Dene Nation policies and applicable federal and provincial legislation.
• Manage school budgets and administrative systems.
• Maintain accurate school records, reports, and documentation.
• Supervise instructional programs and staff performance.
• Monitor attendance and discipline procedures.
• Address inquiries from parents, students, staff, and leadership.
• Develop and maintain emergency procedures and conduct safety drills.
• Ensure secure and compliant management of staff and student records.
• Oversee school events such as assemblies, ceremonies, graduations, and community activities.

Community Relations

• Promote a positive image of the school within the community.
• Communicate the school's mission and goals to the community.
• Encourage community and parental involvement in school activities.
• Identify community needs and support initiatives that benefit students and families.

Cultural Leadership

The Principal is expected to support and promote Indigenous culture, language, and traditions within the school environment. The successful candidate will work respectfully with Elders, leadership, families, and community members to ensure students receive an education that reflects both academic excellence and cultural identity.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Education.
• Master's Degree in Education or Educational Leadership preferred.
• Previous experience as a School Principal or in a senior school leadership role preferred.
• Knowledge of school administration and education regulations.
• Experience with Microsoft Office and education management systems.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.

Competencies

• Minimum of 3–5 years of related leadership experience preferred.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational, and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Strong planning and priority‑setting skills.
• Ability to work effectively with staff, parents, students, committees, and community members.
• Knowledge of applicable education policies and regulations.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time‑management skills.
• High attention to detail.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and professional integrity.

Requirements

• Valid BC Driver's Licence.
• Driver's Abstract clearance.
• Criminal Record Check clearance.

Position Details

This position is based in Tsay Keh Dene Nation, British Columbia. Professional accommodation will be provided. This is a community‑based leadership role requiring the successful candidate to reside in Tsay Keh Dene Nation and actively participate in community life.

Benefits

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Professional accommodation provided in Tsay Keh Dene Nation.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.
• Professional development opportunities.
• Paid vacation and statutory holidays.
• Participation in benefits and pension programs (if applicable).

Working Conditions

• Regular interaction with staff, students, visitors, and government agencies.
• Occasional travel may be required.
• Ability to attend meetings and deliver presentations.
• Manual dexterity required for computer use.
• Occasional overtime may be required.
• May occasionally lift or move items up to 10 lbs.