General Teacher
About This Role
Piyesiw Awasis (Thunderchild) School
Thunderchild First Nation, Saskatchewan
Piyesiw Awasis School serves over 270 students from Nursery to Grade 12 within the Thunderchild First Nation, located near Turtleford, Saskatchewan. The community is recognized for its pioneering role in First Nations education, guided by Elders and the Chief to build a schooling system rooted in Nêhiyaw principles, perspectives, and cultural heritage. The school has transitioned to a year-round academic calendar to incorporate ceremonial and land-based learning during the summer months. While instructional days and holidays align with those of other Saskatchewan schools, their distribution is unique. The curriculum is deeply embedded in Thunderchild teachings, spiritual ties to Mother Earth (Askiy Pimatsiwin), and the Cree language. Summer programs focus on spiritual growth through ceremonies and meaningful connections to the land. At Piyesiw Awasis School, our aim is to create a safe, healthy, and structured environment where awāsisak (children) can develop Good Minds, Kind Hearts, and Strong Spirits.
Our Guiding Framework: PISIM
PISIM forms the foundation of our school culture, integrating Nêhiyaw values, principles, and teachings into daily learning and living. It embodies the Thunderchild Nêhiyaw identity, the revitalization of language, and the spiritual relationship with the land.
- Pimatisowin – Celebrating life with a positive perspective
- Ispihteyitamowin – Recognizing the value of oneself and others; acknowledging inner strength
- Sahkitowin – Caring for oneself, others, and all living beings
- Instotamowin – Understanding, practicing, and valuing all forms of learning and teachings
- Manacihtowin – Demonstrating respect for oneself, others, and all of Creation
To fulfill PISIM, building wahkôtowin (relationships) is essential.
Our Commitment to Students
Piyesiw Awasis School is committed to delivering a Thunderchild-centered curriculum that honors Thunderchild content, perspectives, history, and language while conforming to the standards set by the Saskatchewan Ministry of Education. We take pride in being a student-centered institution that:
- Provides ongoing professional development for teachers to improve learning outcomes
- Emphasizes the enhancement of student literacy, numeracy, and communication skills
- Offers comprehensive support that nurtures the development of the whole child
We Welcome Applications From Educators Who:
- Are passionate about culturally relevant, land-based, and community-focused education
- Prioritize the holistic growth of students
- Are committed to innovation and collaboration
- Aim to make a significant impact on a forward-thinking educational system
Employee Experience
- Salary determined by the Saskatchewan salary grid
- Health and Wellness benefits through BlueCross
- Canada Life Pension plan
- Community features a modern Wellness Centre
- Availability of a Hockey Academy
- Unique opportunity to engage with the community’s traditional ceremonies, teachings, and worldview
- Teacher housing may be available, subject to current availability
Qualifications
- Bachelor of Education from an accredited institution
- Saskatchewan Professional “A” Teaching Certificate (or an equivalent from another province)
- Valid Class 5 Driver’s License (or provincial equivalent) and access to a personal vehicle