Effective immediately, the Human Resources Department is accepting online applications for the position of American Indian Cultural Liaison for the 2023-24 school year. This is a 9-month school year position; 5.25 hours per day. The hourly rate of pay is $29.29.
Job Summary
The South St. Paul Public Schools American Indian Education program works to strengthen and promote positive experiences and educational outcomes for American Indian students. Our goal is to provide meaningful, intentional, and targeted educational opportunities to every American Indian student, while at the same time fostering cultural identity and pride. The purpose of this program is to increase academic achievement, increase the graduation rate, and to improve the school climate of American Indian students in a culturally appropriate manner. This role is guided by the American Indian Education Plan and serves as a liaison for American Indian students and families through five key program areas:Academic support
Family/community resources and advocacy
Cultural events and activities
College visits and post-secondary preparations
Resource library featuring Indigenous authors
The District and the Indian Education Program look to strengthen and support the diverse families by providing a culturally appropriate educational environment for American Indian students.
Job Functions
Build positive and meaningful relationships with American Indian students and their families through regular connection, individual support, and group/community activities.
Coordinate activities that support/strengthen American Indian students’ cultural identity using culturally-relevant materials and curriculum when appropriate, and students’ knowledge of tribal languages and culture in elementary, middle, and high schools.
Coordinate programming adhering to yearly budget, documentation, applications and report submissionsFollow the American Indian Education Plan, including providing academic support, advocacy and resources for families, leading cultural events and activities, organizing field trips and hosting guest educators or speakers, and maintaining the American Indian Resource Room supplies and materials.
Organize, support, and/or co-lead the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (AIPAC). Provide the AIPAC with access to state and district guidance and deadlines in order to fulfill the rights and responsibilities of the group.
In collaboration with the Office of Equity & Learning, manage use of the American Indian Education budget, ensuring proper and timely use of funding and resources. Submit invoices and reimbursements, following monthly deadlines and requirements from the Finance Department.
Attend regular meetings with the Office of Equity & Learning regarding implementation of the American Indian Education Plan and Budget.
Provide families with guidance and support in completing 506 forms and other relevant documentation or applications. Ensure accurate documentation, organization, and storage of 506 forms.
Serve as a point of contact between school district(s) and Minnesota Department of Education – Office of Indian Education and U.S. Department of Education – Office of Indian Education.
Explore and identify system issues that can inhibit or support American Indian educational student successMonitor students’ academic progress, including K-12 performance in reading and math.
Increase the number of elementary students who read at grade level by 3rd grade.
Increase the number of secondary students who participate and successfully complete rigorous courses and programs, such as PSEO.
Increase the number of secondary students who participate in extracurricular and co-curricular activities and are preparing for college prior to graduation.
Provide dropout prevention support, monitor and increase graduation rate.
Act as a resource for incorporating inclusive practices and American Indian content standards in K-12 classrooms, including coordinating culturally appropriate training(s) and identifying resources and content materials.
Attend meetings between school and student/family as needed to serve as a American Indian cultural liaison. Facilitate communication between students, parents, and school staff to develop healthy, positive family attitudes toward academic success, attendance at school, and student academic development.
Provide assistance to families and students as they enroll and participate in school including enrollment paperwork and checklists, food service applications, transportation, on-line support, and health concerns, as well as other services/activities as needed and appropriate.
Encourage parents to attend and be active in both American Indian Education and school/district meetings and events.
Develop relationships and work cooperatively as a team member with all school/district staff to support students’ academic performance, achievement, attendance and/or behavior.
Seek solutions to attendance and academic performance roadblocks in conjunction with the Office of Equity & Learning and Student Services.
Advocate for educational equity for American Indian students and families. Provide feedback for systems improvements.
Engage in timely and courageous conversations with American Indian students and families, school and district staff, and community partners and stakeholders.
Work in collaboration with the Office of Equity & Learning to provide guidance and education about the American Indian Education Program to our school and local community.
Partner with local tribes and American Indian Education programs.
Other duties as relevant to the American Indian Education Plan.