Bench Elementary Principal

Nicola-Similkameen School District No. 58 recognizes that we learn teach and work on the ancestral traditional and unceded territories of the NleeKepmx and Syilx people and we acknowledge our Metis communities and their contributions to the Aboriginal ways of being knowing and doing. Together we are proud to deliver public education for approximately 2100 students approximately 48% of whom are Indigenous. The work of the district is guided by our Strategic Plan the LEA and the Aboriginal Education Enhancement Agreement / Equity Scan supported by a dedicated staff engaged rightsholders and partners who share a genuine commitment to the district schools students and

families.

The Nicola-Similkameen School District serves Princeton and Merritt as well as surrounding areas and 6 First Nations communities. The mountains rivers lakes and valleys that hold the district make it a natural setting for many year-round outdoor activities. We offer a warm small-town atmosphere where relationships are fundamental to our shared successes. Merritt is located at the hub of the Coquihalla Highway system in easy reach of Vancouver Kamloops and the Okanagan.

Bench Elementary is a Grade K-7 elementary school in Merritt British Columbia. The schools population is approximately 150 students. Bench Elementary School is an inclusive community that puts student well-being and learning at the forefront. Bench Elementary School seeks to build upon a strong foundation of literacy and numeracy skills in supporting engaged and empowered learners.

The ideal candidate will be a dynamic educator who possesses the following qualities:

• Master of Education Degree in Leadership Administration Inclusive Education Counselling Psychology Curriculum or related degree.
• A minimum of ten years of successful teaching experience is preferred.
• Leadership experience with elementary school programs and curriculum.
• Successful leadership of vibrant and innovative student achievement initiatives that are based on current research in the areas of pedagogy instruction and assessment.
• Experience and expertise in supporting the social-emotional wellness of intermediate and young adolescent students through innovative educational and classroom-based supports.
• Demonstrated experience establishing a welcoming learning environment that creates a sense of belonging and agency for all students families/caregivers and staff.
• Experience and commitment to creating vibrant and engaged school communities with a focus on holistic wellness diversity and inclusion; demonstrated expertise in creating wrap-around supports for students and

• Skilled in all aspects of supervision for and of learning; a demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional learning and collaboration.
• Proven commitment to and knowledge of inclusive practices and the use of data to guide instruction and intervention strategies.
• Excellent communication conflict resolution and interpersonal skills.

• Knowledge and understanding of the Truth and Reconciliation Commissions Calls to Action the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples the BC Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act and Action Plan the BC Tripartite Education Agreement MMIWG2S and First Peoples Principles of Learning.
• A proven commitment to improving school success for Indigenous students.
• Demonstrable successful experience working with Indigenous families/caregivers and communities.
• BC Professional Teaching Certificate.

The Nicola-Similkameen School District is committed to developing a leadership team that is reflective of the mosaic of cultures in the communities we serve and ensuring an equitable and inclusive work environment. We especially welcome applications from individuals who would contribute to the further diversification of our staff including but not limited to those who identify as Indigenous Metis persons of colour persons representing the LGBTQ community and persons with disabilities. You are invited to voluntarily indicate in your cover letter if you identify as one or more of these communities. This information will be kept confidential upon request.

The Nicola-Similkameen School District recognizes that consistent with the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) the BC Human Rights Code and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms employment practices and procedures at all levels should reflect and demonstrate an understanding of and response to a diverse population.

Moving allowance support is available to successful applicant.

The salary range for this position is per the BCPSE Regional Salary Model for Principals - $148816 - $157240 per year. The closing date for applications is Friday July 25 2025 by 12 Noon.

Applications will be accepted at Barb Mclean Director of Human Resources: ..ca

or Kassey Buckland Executive Assistant to HR: