Cultural Connections Lead

Reports To: Aboriginal Head Start Program Coordinator

Based at: 10105-97 Ave Grande Prairie, Alberta T8V 0N5

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Job Purpose: The Cultural Advisor is responsible for promoting cultural understanding and inclusion within the Aboriginal Head Start program. This includes introducing children to diverse Indigenous cultures and traditions, working closely with families to incorporate cultural values, supporting staff through training and mentorship, and building connections with community partners to enrich the program's cultural foundation.

Hours and Work Structure: This is a term position, averaging approximately 10–15 hours per week, with a flexible schedule to support cultural and community events, classroom activities, and family engagement. Some evening and weekend hours may be required to accommodate events, celebrations and workshops. This contract will run from September to June.
 

Qualifications:

• Knowledge and lived experience of Indigenous culture, language, and traditions

• Knowledge of and sensitivity to cultural protocols, with a willingness to seek guidance when needed

• Experience working with young children in a culturally diverse or Indigenous-focused environment

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work respectfully with Elders, Knowledge Holders, staff, children, families and community members

• Ability to lead cultural activities such as storytelling, drumming, and traditional games and activities

• Understanding of inclusive practices, equity, and cultural safety in early learning

• Cleared Criminal Record Check and Child Intervention Check

• Ability to work independently (including from home) and in a team environment

• Open to building relationships with local Elders, Knowledge Holders, and cultural mentors; existing connections are an asset

• Willingness to learn and share in cultural teachings relevant to the families served by the program

 

Duties and Responsibilities:

1. Cultural Education & Programming

• Support children’s learning of the Indigenous culture, language, and traditions through age-appropriate stories, songs, and age-appropriate activities

• Design and implement culturally relevant activities in collaboration with classroom staff

• Support children in exploring their cultural identities in a safe and respectful environment

 

 

2. Family & Community Engagement

• Build trusting relationships with families and invite their participation in sharing cultural knowledge

• Encourage family involvement in cultural activities, field trips, and events through the Aboriginal Head Start Program and the Grande Prairie Friendship Centre events

• Act as a liaison between the program and Elders, Knowledge Holders, and community partners

 

3. Staff Support & Training

• Provide guidance to staff on integrating cultural teachings into daily routines and lesson plans, including the Seven Sacred Teachings and the Medicine Wheel

• Offer informal coaching and/or workshops on cultural safety, inclusivity, and language use

• Collaborate with the Program Coordinator to identify professional development opportunities for staff

• Provide Cultural Awareness & Protocol training to staff and include as part of new staff orientation

 

4. Event Planning & Coordination

• Plan and facilitate cultural events, workshops, seasonal celebrations, and special guests

• Support logistics for Elder visits, cultural focused field trips, and other opportunities to connect culture to the program for children and families

• Ensure events reflect respectful and accurate cultural practices

 

5. Advocacy & Representation

• Advocate for cultural inclusion and awareness within the program

• Contribute cultural insight to planning processes, policy updates, and program decisions

• Attend relevant meetings or community gatherings as requested

 

6. Administrative Duties & Program Support

• Document cultural activities, events, and contributions for internal records or reporting

• Maintain a resource library of cultural books, materials, and activity plans

• Assist with grant applications or reporting related to cultural programming when applicable

• Perform other duties as assigned by the Program Coordinator to support the overall success of the Aboriginal Head Start program

Please Submit a Cover Letter & Resume to admin@gpfriendship.com