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 to:

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

Email: consultant@gwsss.ca