Job Summary

The Thunder Bay High School Student Support Worker provides academic, emotional, and cultural support to Marten Falls First Nation students attending high school in Thunder Bay.

Generally, this role focuses on improving attendance, academic success, student well-being, and positive school transitions. Furthermore, the Student Support Worker works closely with students, families, school staff, and community services to ensure students receive appropriate support.

This is a casual/on-call position with hours based on student needs and operational requirements.

Reports To:

The Thunder Bay High School Student Support Worker reports to and is under the direct supervision of the Education Director for Marten Falls First Nation.

Job Duties

Direct Student Support

• Firstly, meet with students individually and in small groups to provide encouragement, guidance, and mentorship.
• Monitor attendance, academic progress, and student well-being.
• Assist students with goal setting, organization skills, and study habits.
• Support students experiencing social, emotional, or behavioural challenges.
• Refer students to appropriate services when concerns exceed the scope of the role.
• Assist students in transitioning into high school and preparing for graduation or post-secondary pathways.

Attendance Monitoring and Advocacy

• In addition, monitor student attendance and follow up on absences or lates.
• Subsequently, communicate with parents/guardians regarding attendance concerns.
• Also, advocate for students within the school system to ensure fair treatment and culturally respectful supports.
• Participate in school meetings and case conferences as required.

School-Home-Community Liaison

• Similarly, maintain open communication between students, families, school staff, and Marten Falls First Nation.
• Support parent involvement in meetings and school activities when needed.
• Liaise with external agencies (with proper consent) to coordinate services.
• Support students living in boarding homes or off-reserve settings.

Cultural and Wellness Support

• Likewise, promote a culturally safe and respectful environment for students.
• Encourage pride in First Nation identity, language, and traditions.
• Support or assist in coordinating cultural activities and events.
• Identify early signs of mental health or wellness concerns and connect students to appropriate supports.

Documentation and Reporting

• Maintain accurate and confidential student files and contact logs.
• Document meetings, follow-ups, and action plans.
• Provide regular updates to the Education Director.
• Finally, track student participation, attendance trends, and support activities as required.

Qualifications

Education

• Firstly, an Ontario Secondary School Diploma is required.
• Above all, a Diploma in Social Services, Child & Youth Care, Education Assistant, Indigenous Studies, or a related field is preferred.
• A combination of education and relevant experience may be considered.

Experience

• In addition, experience working with Indigenous youth in a school, community, or support setting.
• Experience supporting students with behavioural, emotional, or academic challenges.
• Understanding of the impact of intergenerational trauma and barriers faced by First Nation students attending school off-reserve.

Knowledge & Skills

• Additionally, strong communication and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to mentor, support, and guide youth in a positive and respectful manner.
• Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
• Equally important, the ability to maintain professional boundaries and confidentiality.
• Basic documentation and reporting skills.
• Moreover, knowledge of First Nation culture, values, and traditions is an asset.
• Proficiency in Anishnabemowin is an asset.

Requirements

• Valid Ontario Class “G” Driver’s License.
• Accordingly, access to reliable transportation.
• Satisfactory Criminal Record Check with Vulnerable Sector Check.
• Also, must comply with Marten Falls First Nation policies and privacy legislation.

Working Conditions

• Casual/on-call position based in Thunder Bay.
• Hours are based on student needs and operational requirements.
• Work may occur during school hours and occasionally outside regular school hours.
• Travel within Thunder Bay may be required for meetings, school visits, or student support activities.

Compensation

• Finally, based on experience and education.

Preference

Preference will be given to Marten Falls First Nation Band Members, provided the candidate meets the qualifications and requirements of the position.

How to Apply

Please submit your resume and cover letter to:

By Email:
Human Resources
Marten Falls First Nation
Email: hiringcommittee@martenfalls.com

By Mail or In-Person:
Marten Falls First Nation Band Office
General Delivery, Ogoki Post, ON P0T 2L0

Marten Falls First Nation – Thunder Bay Sub Office
577 11th Avenue, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 2R5

Confidential information provided by applicants will be used for the purpose of this competition only and will be protected in accordance with applicable privacy legislation.

Marten Falls First Nation encourages applications from qualified community members. We appreciate all applications. However, we will contact only those candidates whom we select for an interview. We provide accommodation upon request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process. Please note that we do not use AI in the screening, assessment, or selection of applicants for this position.