Our Approach

Education in Canada is a success story. Study after study shows that our public schools are among the best in the world. But high overall quality masks deep inequality. Only 48 percent of First Nations youth living on reserve have a high school diploma. In the North, those numbers are even lower. And, too often, teachers arrive in northern First Nations without the preparation and support they need to succeed—and stay—in the classroom. The twin challenges of teacher supply and turnover compound historical injustice and systemic inequities to produce a statistical education gap between First Nations and non-First Nations communities.

Gakino'amaage: Teach For Canada is a non-profit organization that works with northern First Nations to recruit, prepare, and support committed teachers who will increase student outcomes in the North. This model has been defined by First Nations community partners, our Circle of Advisors, our Board of Directors, and experienced northern educators.

Our Culture

Gakino'amaage: Teach For Canada has a supportive work culture and offers a variety of benefits to its team members including access to physical and mental wellness supports, flexible hours, and professional development opportunities. In addition to these perks and benefits, Gakino'amaage: Teach For Canada also honours National Indigenous Peoples Day and the National Day of Truth and Reconciliation as statutory holidays; and the last week of every calendar year is paid time off, too!

On our team, we are fortunate to have a committed, experienced, talented, and humble group of leaders. Together, this team works hard to create a meaningful impact. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, innovative, energizing, and rewarding work environment, then we want to hear from you!

Your Responsibilities

The Community Engagement Manager will report to the Director of Community Engagement and will lead Gakino’amaage: Teach For Canada’s efforts in our community engagement and community-based programming. Specific responsibilities include:

• Plan and execute bi-annual Advisory Council meetings which serve to foster continued dialogue and advice from Community Partners to inform our programming.
• Support building relationships with peer organizations, tribal councils, PTOs, and other Indigenous organizations, particularly in those provinces where we work or are expanding into.
• Draft community partner communications and deliver them to maintain and engage with current partners.
• Co-develop opportunities for partners to increase education leaders’ effectiveness at teacher recruitment and retention.
• Provide internal support for community-based elements across Gakino’amaage: Teach For Canada’s departments.
• Support the department’s quarterly and annual planning to reach and improve on the department’s goals.
• Perform additional duties, responsibilities, and activities as assigned.

Your Fit

• You are respectful of Indigenous cultures and histories: You have a deep respect for the histories, cultures, and goals of Indigenous communities in what is now known as Canada. You care that goals are reached in the right way.
• You are a planner: You prioritize and plan to effectively meet competing deadlines.
• You are detail-oriented: You believe that if something is worth doing, it is worth doing right—every single time. You plan ahead and proactively solve challenges.
• You communicate clearly: You write well and speak eloquently. You appreciate nuanced language that is inspirational and honest.
• You are a team player: You recognize the strengths of others, collaborate well, and crave feedback.
• You are a relationship-builder: You build relationships with ease, you engage others around you, and you are a natural storyteller. You are comfortable working collaboratively with the entire Gakino’amaage: Teach For Canada team and beyond.
• You are resilient: You are comfortable adapting to new situations and flexible to this role's evolving nature. You are self-motivating and have developed sustainable self-care techniques.

Application Process

To begin your application, please submit your resume and cover letter. The interview process will start with a one-hour virtual introductory interview, which will be preceded by a pre-interview assignment for you to complete

Equity, Accessibility and Indigenous Integrity

Gakino'amaage: Teach For Canada is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. As an organization that works with First Nations, we value Indigenous perspectives in the workplace and strongly encourage Indigenous candidates to apply.

Gakino'amaage: Teach For Canada welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the hiring process.

Background Check Requirement

This position involves visiting schools and working with children and, as such, the successful candidate will be required to apply for and obtain a Police Records Check for the vulnerable sector.

Job term: Full-time, contract

Contract duration: July 2025 – July 2026

Requirements: Must have a valid driver’s license, 2+ years of experience working in an office environment

Desired Experience: Experience working with First Nations Communities, Project management experience, Community engagement experience, and Human Resources.

Location: Hybrid - Saskatoon, Edmonton, Winnipeg and First Nation Communities

Occasional travel and in-office work at our Toronto office for administrative and collaborative work. Travel, accommodation, and meal costs will be covered by Gakino’amaage: Teach For Canada.