Indigenous Early Childhood Educator Coordinator

Classification: Early Childhood Educator Senior, JJEP Grid Level 13
Hours of work: Full Time
Location: 200-11830 223 Street and outreach
Permanent Full time: 35 hrs. (Monday-Friday with occasional evenings or weekends) - This position requires union membership.
Date of Posting December 3, 2024
Closing Date: on going until filled
Under Section 41 of the BC Human Rights Code, preference may be given to applicants who self-identify as Indigenous (First Nation, Métis, or Inuit). It will greatly assist us with screening if you refer in your application to your Indigenous identity. Recognizing the impacts of colonization on Indigenous people, it is your choice whether to volunteer information. We will hold your application in the strictest confidence, sharing it only with the hiring panel.
We are committed to the principles and practices of an inclusive and equitable employment process. We encourage applicants from communities which are structurally marginalized based on race, colour, religion, nationality, social or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. Only applicants shortlisted for interview will be contacted.
Position Summary:
The Indigenous ECE Coordinator will support Indigenous children’s improved development and life outcomes by providing high-quality Indigenous early years programming to empower young children with a strong sense of identity. The Indigenous Early Years Coordinator is responsible for the development and facilitation of culturally safe early years’ drop-in program (Story Blanket). Delivery of services will focus on parent/caregiver participation and outreach for First Nations, Métis and Inuit families with children aged 0-6, while creating an inclusive environment. Through Indigenous Early Years programs, children and families may learn stories, poems, rhythms, dance, and songs that connect them to their culture and traditions. The drop-in program will run 3-4 mornings/afternoons per week providing a safe and nurturing environment where everyone feels welcomed and belongs. It provides educational opportunities, pre-school and kindergarten readiness. The program will have regular access to Elders and their teachings. This position requires an individual with a passion for the delivery of strengths based, trauma informed, culturally centred early years programs with the capacity for self-direction. Must possess the physical ability to consistently bend, lift, and carry a weight of up to 10kg.
Organizational Competencies:
Indigenous Centered Approach, Effective Communication, Continuous Learning, Flexibility, Organizational Awareness, Change Leadership, Foster Relationships, Emotional Intelligence,
Inclusive, Organizational skills, Service Orientation, Teamwork and Collaboration, Relationship Building, Values and Ethics, Accountability / Dependability, Stress Management QUALIFICATIONS:
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Diploma level ECE Certification, including Special Needs and Infant Toddler Certification, current ECE licence to practice
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2 years' experience within the past five years providing direct services to children and families in a community setting,
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Understanding and knowledge of Indigenous culture, trauma-informed practices, traditions, and socio-economic issues affecting urban Indigenous families
Knowledge and experience of group process and facilitation techniques including demonstrated experience facilitating group and circle time activities; Indigenous storytelling, drumming, and singing
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Demonstrated understanding of the development of children and their mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual needs and an understanding of inclusivity of children with support needs
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Demonstrated ability to work from a strength based, solution oriented, and family centered approach is required
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Direct program delivery experience in the community social service sector with a demonstrated working knowledge of family centered care, early intervention strategies, child development, and community-based programs
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Knowledge of Indigenous communities, organizations, and service providers within Ridge Meadows
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Physical ability to frequently bend, kneel, and lift and carry 10kgs
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Required Standard First Aid w/CPR/AED Level C
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Food Safe Certification
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Demonstrated ability to use a variety of software: Microsoft Office 365, data base, online graphic design tools
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Flexible work hours (evenings, and weekends) as well as flexible work location/environment within the region
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Ability to budget, manage and reconcile petty cash
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Valid Class 5 BC driver’s licence and own reliable transportation, clean driver’s abstract required
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Criminal record check working with children and vulnerable people is a requirement of all employees of FRIS.
Key Responsibilities:
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Development and facilitation of culturally safe early years’ drop-in parent/caregiver participation program and will ensure inclusivity in the program delivery (Story Blanket Drop-in)
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Enhances the capacity of First Nations, Métis and Inuit families to educate children aged 0-6,
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Develop curriculum using seven sacred teachings, medicine wheel, Many Voices, One Mind Indigenous teaching kits or other cultural models
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Lead and share cultural gifts: storytelling, drumming and singing
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Teach a range of topics including parent roles and responsibilities, child behaviours, attachment, coping skills and communication skills
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Responsible for creating and maintaining an environment of safety and wellness in the Early Years Drop in, including overall group dynamics and when supported visits are taking place
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Sourcing and booking locations for programming and securing appropriate insurance coverage. This involves close collaboration with the City of Maple Ridge and Pitt Meadows, School District 42, and others. practice, culturally appropriate Indigenous practice and strategies for children who require additional support and
their families
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Maintain appropriate record/stats, information system and provide monthly reports
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Assist with referral process, program evaluation and quality improvements
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Assist Early Years Program Manager with administration tasks as needed such as: data collection for reporting, back up for Early Years programs and consult with other FRIS Early Years and Family Development programs To apply send cover letter & resume to:
FRASER RIVER INDIGENOUS SOCIETY
11830 223rd Street (2nd floor)
Maple Ridge, BC.
V2X 5Y1 Email: EYmanager@frisociety.ca