The Ministry of Education provides leadership and direction to an education, early years, library and literacy system that foundationally places Indigenous knowledge systems, cultures and languages within the structures, policies and curricula to ensure an equitable and inclusive system that benefits all learners. The Ministry of Education is advancing reconciliation with early years, PreK‑12, library, and First Nations, Métis and Inuit partners by acknowledging our shared history to build a brighter future together. The Ministry of Education is committed to the success and well-being of all Saskatchewan learners and the enhancement of literacy for all Saskatchewan people.

The Priority Action Team operates under the direction of the Ministry of Education and the Following the Voices Leadership Team. One of its tasks is to develop, organize and implement the Following Their Voices initiative in provincial and First Nations schools in Saskatchewan.

The Priority Action Team is looking for a dynamic individual who is focused on improving educational outcomes for Indigenous students to join our team as a Program Consultant. Our team is committed to building culture that supports respect, integrity, citizen-centered services, excellence, innovation and teamwork.

The Opportunity

Reporting to the Executive Director, this position will provide a variety of advisory, consultative, monitoring and liaison functions as a conduit of information between the ministry, provincial school divisions and First Nations education organizations.

A primary focus of the position will be to:

• lead and facilitate strategic initiatives that focus on partnerships between education stakeholders;
• collaborate with sector partners on various initiatives, primarily Following Their Voices; and,
• provide initiative implementation, analysis and research that supports program design, implementation, review and decision making.

The Candidate of Choice

To be successful in this position you will be a strong communicator and:

• have knowledge of the Saskatchewan education system and First Nations education systems;
• plan, coordinate and facilitate meetings and projects;
• reconcile divergent views and interests and work towards mutually acceptable solutions;
• liaise with education leaders from Saskatchewan First Nations education authorities and Métis education organizations and work with senior provincial school division representatives.

Typically, the knowledge, skills, and abilities required would be acquired through:

• demonstrated teaching experience in the PreK-12 education environment;
• completion of a Bachelor of Education degree and a supporting secondary degree; and
• experience in supporting program implementation, large scale change initiatives and performance management.

A valid driver’s license is required as travel (50%) will be required.

Demonstrated knowledge of working in government is an asset.

Ability to speak and write in the French language or an Indigenous language would be an asset.

Competencies

You will have knowledge of:

• the Saskatchewan education system and First Nations education systems
• First Nations and Metis culture, histories, and values and the learning needs of First Nation, Metis and Inuit students;
• Research techniques, methodologies and ethics that respect Indigenous Knowledge and ways of knowing;
• computer technology using various software packages and applications

You will have the proven ability to:

• plan, coordinate and facilitate meetings and projects, engaging participants to achieve desired outcomes (Leadership)
• liaise and/or collaborate with the public, organizations, agencies, other ministries, branches, and ministry staff to obtain, exchange and confirm information and/or to make informed decisions that reflect educational goals and perspectives (Interpersonal)
• write a range of internal and public documents clearly and concisely for a variety of audiences (Communication)
• research, identify, evaluate and select resources from a variety of sources to develop and support curriculum documents, instructional materials and a variety of other documents and/or presentations (Analytical)
• organize and manage multiple projects taking into consideration conflicting and changing priorities in order to meet deadlines (Organizational)

You will be:

• consistent and self-directed in presenting information
• diplomatic and assertive
• reliable and committed