Principal, Netsilik School, Taloyoak, NU

Posting Number: 09-1343

Position: Principal

School: Netsilik School

Community: Taloyoak, NU

Grade Assignment: K-12

Status: Full-time (1.0 PY)

Start Date: 8/6/2026

End Date (if Term): 6/9/2030

Please note: Start and end dates may be subject to change based on approved school calendars.

Closing date for applications: Open until Filled

About this Opportunity

The Nunavut Department of Education, Kitikmeot School Operations, is seeking passionate and community-focused school leaders who are committed to creating vibrant learning environments for students in Nunavut. As the Principal, your primary responsibilities will include providing instructional guidance, fostering positive community relationships, and promoting culturally responsive educational settings that align with Inuit Societal Values. You will lead staff, advocate for student achievement, and work collaboratively with families and community members to enhance literacy, inclusiveness, and overall student well-being. Essential qualities for success in this role and in northern life include resilience, adaptability, and resourcefulness (Qanuqtuurniq).

About the School

Netsilik School is located in the picturesque hamlet of Taloyoak, NU, serving the local community. The institution supports approximately 385 students across grades K-12 and is backed by a dedicated staff of 43. The deep-rooted traditions of Inuit culture play a significant role in both the school and the surrounding community.

About Education in Nunavut

The initiatives of the Government of Nunavut are anchored in Inuit Societal Values. The Department of Education is focused on Pilimmaksarniq/Pijariuqsarniq by offering well-structured professional development opportunities for staff. Schools in Nunavut unite for a shared purpose (Piliriqatigiinniq/Ikajuqtigiinniq), with a current emphasis on boosting literacy outcomes for all learners while ensuring culturally relevant and respectful learning experiences. School operations across all regions are dedicated to:

• Promoting the Inuktitut Language and Inuit Qaujimajatuqangiit (Inuit Societal Values)
• Community-Led Education
• Enhancing Student Literacy
• Inclusive Education

Required Qualifications

Education & Certification

• Bachelor of Education degree
• Valid teaching certificate recognized by, or eligibility for certification in Nunavut (Internationally educated teachers lacking a Canadian teaching certificate must have their credentials evaluated through Pathways to Teach Canada)

Experience

• At least 3 years of experience in school leadership
• A minimum of 5 years of experience as a classroom teacher

Core Leadership Competencies

• A commitment to fostering an inclusive, equitable, and safe school environment through culturally responsive practices and a proactive approach to the mental health and well-being of students and staff.
• Proven instructional leadership in literacy, including Balanced Literacy or similar approaches.
• Experience leading instructional improvements through evidence-based coaching, professional learning communities (PLCs), and the strategic analysis of student achievement data to address learning gaps.
• Demonstrated success in northern and cross-cultural settings, with a strong ability to build positive and respectful relationships with students, educators, colleagues, parents, and community members.

Assets and Preferred Experience

Language and Cultural Assets

• Proficiency in Inuktitut (both spoken and written).
• Experience with Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit-based education.
• Background in supporting bilingual and ESL programming.

Instructional Leadership

• Graduate-level training in education.
• Strong classroom management capabilities and experience in fostering positive learning environments (e.g., Restitution, Tribes, Positive Effective Behaviour Supports).

School Operations & Systems

• Proven ability to implement directives and operational requirements.

Apply via the WhatSchool platform.