Where Culture Meets Education: Teach at Wagalus School
Located 15 minutes from Port Hardy on the northeast tip of Vancouver Island, Wagalus School is a certified school operated by the Kwakiutl Band, with students ranging from preschool to Grade 7.
The beautiful school building, constructed in 2016, comprises four classrooms, a gym, and a preschool and is primarily made of locally sourced wood. There is also a large multi-purpose room, a modern interpretation of Kwakiutl's traditional "Big House".
Blending its deep connection to the local Indigenous community with academic excellence, teaching at Wagalus is an excellent fit for anyone looking to start their career in the BC K-12 system or for an experienced educator looking to try something new.
COMMUNITY CULTURE
The educational philosophy of Wagalus is rooted in the core values of Kwakiutl culture.
Kwakiutl teachings guide staff and students at the school: Maya'xala (Respect for all), Hutłilala (Listen), Wa'la (Stop), Salt'idas (Calm yourself) and Dałaxa ik noke (Carry a good heart).
"We are very well integrated with the community, there are lots of opportunities to connect," principal Sheila McGrath says. "Everyone knows everyone, but we also have a highly active parents' club."
The proximity to nature means outdoor learning is a major part of the curriculum, with garden and herb beds onsite planted each year so students can learn about natural life in the world around them.
The school is also walking distance from the ocean and frequently takes its students on fun field trips, including whale watching and clam digging.
DRAW FOR EMPLOYEES
Teachers at Wagalus enjoy an excellent student-to-teacher ratio – no class has more than 16 students – allowing you to integrate more personalized lesson planning and work more closely with your students.
There is also language instruction and culturally related programming for students in addition to the standard BC K-12 curriculum.
"We have amazing, experienced teachers here," McGrath says. "New teachers will receive a lot of support and mentorship."
Each class also has its own Education Assistant and intervention support for students who need it. Funds are also made available for teachers to optimize their classrooms.
SALARY AND BENEFITS
Salaries at Wagalus are on par with the public school system, with full benefits available for teachers after three months. You can also spread your salary across the full 12-month calendar.
Like the public system, you get two weeks for both spring and winter break and professional development days. Teachers at Wagalus also occasionally join other SD85 schools for PD seminars.
Additionally, preparation for the new school year starts a week early at Wagalus, so you'll get paid for an extra week to set up your classroom. There are also hot lunches for teachers from Tuesday to Friday each week. Connect with us today to learn more about teaching at Wagalus and living on Northern Vancouver Island.