At A Glance
- Number of Students70
- Number of Employees15
Gitanyow Independent School
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School Overview
Gitanyow Independent School offers K4-7 education to children living in (and occasionally around) Gitanyow. We strive to support the academic achievement and cultural connections of our students and community. We believe in promoting strong community connections; celebrating Gitxsan and other Indigenous ways of knowing; meeting our students where they are at and working with a growth mindset; and building positive staff/student relationships that create a safe learning space for all.
School Community
Our staff works well together and collaborates on school-wide events and initiatives. Our small size means that you can be a staff leader if you choose – we’re looking for positive-minded, energetic educators who are interested in trying new things in their classrooms and the school in general. Our kids are awesome: kindness and restorative justice are the foundations of our classroom management and as a result we have very few major behaviour or bullying issues.
Our Programs
Our school day runs from 8:45 am to 3:00 pm with staff (generally) working from 8:30 am-3:30 pm. Thirty-minute prep blocks are provided to classroom teachers each day while students attend our language and culture program. Class sizes are 20 students or less. We use Saxon Math, ReadWell and Reading Mastery programs that allow students to do numeracy and literacy learning at their own ability level.
Community Culture
Our community
Gitanyow is a small Gitxsan community, located 20 kilometres off Highway 16, with a local population of about 360 and a total population (including band members who live off-reserve) of just under 500. The community has a school, health centre, band office and gas bar, and other services can be accessed in Kitwanga (18 kilometres south) or Terrace (120 kilometres west). There is no cell service in Gitanyow, so locals rely on landline phones or wifi calling.
English is the primary spoken language, but language keepers in the community are working hard to strengthen and encourage use of Gitxsanimx. We have an elected Chief and Council and also recognize the authority and wisdom of hereditary Chiefs.
Why You’ll Love It Here
We’re surrounded on all sides by some of the best sites and scenery the Creator has to offer – amazing lakes, rivers and mountains, lots of wildlife, beautiful provincial parks, and so much more. We are right next to some of the most amazing wilderness and opportunities for outdoor adventure in Canada.
We support our teachers
Professional development days are held monthly, and many paid professional development opportunities are available through the First Nations Education Steering Committee and other local agencies.
Salary and Benefits
We offer salaries of $70,000 to $80,000 per year, as well as incentives. Housing is provided to teachers (and their families) by the Gitanyow Band, which will cut your living costs substantially. Other benefits include a moving allowance, a Christmas bonus, a pension plan and extended health.
How to Apply
You must possess or be eligible to apply for a BC teaching certificate and you must pass a criminal record check with a vulnerable sector search. It would be an asset to have your own vehicle and a valid Class 5 license.