Student-Family Advocate (School Counsellor)

Gitksen West Secondary School Society

Located in Gitwangak First Nation, BC

Student Family Advocate ( School Counsellor) Job Posting

About Us
Gitksen West Secondary School is a brand-new, state-of-the-art high school serving the Gitwangak, Gitsegukla and Gitanyow First Nations. We provide a safe, inclusive, and culturally rich learning environment that blends academic excellence with Sim'algyax and Gitksen language, culture, and traditions. Our modern facilities include specialized classrooms for science, arts, and trades, a full commercial kitchen for nutrition programs and culinary studies, a gymnasium, and a track and sports field. Students have opportunities for dual credit, work experience, leadership and sports academies, while staff benefit from a collaborative and innovative professional environment. Join us and make a direct impact on the education, well-being, and cultural development of our students.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide individual, group, and class counselling, including intervention and prevention
• Support students' academic achievement through goal-setting, portfolios, and IEPs
• Collaborate with staff, families, and community agencies on student development
• Facilitate referrals to mental health, social services, and cultural programs, as necessary
• Mentor and advise students on career options and post-secondary planning
• Contribute to culturally responsive programming that integrates Sim'algyax and Gitksen culture
• Promote healthy living, wellness, and life skills that support student independence and well-being
• Support students' intellectual, social, and emotional development
• Collaborate with colleagues to integrate project-based learning, particularly when weaving Sim'algyax and Gitksen culture into their curriculum
• Participate in school activities, committees, professional development, extra-curricular activities.

• B.C. Teacher Certification and membership in the Teacher Regulation Branch (preferred)
• Master's degree in counselling, Social Work, Psychology, or Child & Youth Care
• Experience with First Nations children, youth, and families
• Training in trauma-informed care, motivational interviewing, conflict resolution
• Knowledge of IEPs, career guidance, and mental health support
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Strong knowledge of 21st-century, project-based learning and teaching strategies
• Excellent communication, organization, and classroom management skills
• Team player with creativity and innovation in lesson planning
• Participation in school events, extra-curricular activities, and occasional field trips
• Clear Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Screening.

Why Join Us?

If you are a bold educational leader/counsellor ready to make a lasting impact, we invite you to apply and help build a school that will inspire generations to come. For more information and to submit an application that includes Cover Letter, CV, Philosophy of Education, copy of credentials and references by Friday April 10 , 2026 (12pm) to:

Edith Loring- Kuhanga , B. Ed., M. Ed. Leadership & Governance Consultant;

Email: consultant@gwsss.ca