Teaching in the Yukon offers great financial compensation. Salaries start at $79,142. Teachers relocating from east of Manitoba receive $10,000 in relocation compensation. Teachers hired from west of Manitoba receive $8,000 for relocation. There is also a Yukon Bonus of $2,242 and various travel bonuses and Community Allowances. However, those who choose to teach as a career aren't in it for the money but for the ability to make a life-long difference in the lives of learners of all ages. That's why many educators are drawn to the Yukon and the unique opportunities provided by working with the First Nation School Board.
Sense of Purpose
Teaching in an FNSB school isn't just about imparting academic knowledge. It's also about supporting learners' emotions and feelings so they feel heard and seen. The First Nations School Board (FNSB) prioritizes creating a holistic, culturally appropriate learning environment. The schools provide a safe space for all learners. Learners are taught to appreciate and honour their culture and language. The curriculum is developed based on direction from Community Committees. Each school is provided with the resources needed to integrate land-based learning.
Educators who take on a teaching position in an FNSB school gain the satisfaction of helping learners reach their full potential in all areas of their lives. Class sizes are small, which means teachers have the opportunity to get to know and support learners on a higher level. Robust community involvement provides teachers with the support and insight needed to empower learners to overcome difficulties, embrace new learning opportunities, and impart the foundational skills learners need to succeed as adults. Teaching at an FNSB school is more than a nine-to-five job. It's an invitation to become part of a community that's building a better world for its children.
Professional Development
The FNSB is on the cutting edge of educational development. The board follows up-to-date research. It provides top-tier coaching and resources to help learners make fast progress. In fact, the FNSB's literacy plan boosted standardized test scores by 14 just one year after implementation. Teachers are expected to stay open to their own learning and are supported in professional development opportunities including conferences and workshops. Coaches are readily available to help support initiatives related to Land, Language, Numeracy, Literacy, High School, Early Learning, and Whole Child development. Our schools ensure an emphasis on Yukon First Nation values, coupled with the empowerment to design curricula to meet the unique needs of each student. This is part of what makes FNSB schools stand out from other public schools in the territory and country.
Health Benefits
The FNSB understands the value of each educator. There are strong leave supports in place for long-term disability, sick leave, and special leave. Teachers never have to worry that an unforeseen illness or health problem will derail their ability to work at an FNSB school. There are also generous, comprehensive health benefits so teachers can get the care they need before serious problems develop. Hospitals and health centres are strategically located across Yukon communities to provide top-tier medical care to patients of all ages and walks of life. As teachers don't have to worry about healthcare, they are free to focus on developing their skills and focusing on student needs.
An Outdoor Lifestyle
Yukon First Nations people lived traditionally nomadic lifestyles for millennia. They learned how to rely on each other and the water, mountains, and forests. Modern science is only now coming to understand the many health and educational benefits of spending time in nature. A growing body of research clearly shows that being out in nature has an outsized impact on human health and well-being, offering benefits such as improved sleep, reduced stress, improved ADD and ADHD symptoms, improved pro-social behaviour, and a boost in immune system functioning, among other benefits.
Teachers with FNSB are able to enjoy the beautiful scenery and great outdoor activities and also teach learners about the importance of understanding and caring for the world around them. As children learn to respect and care for the land, they learn how to benefit from spending time in nature and preserving it for future generations. As teachers spend time in nature, they gain the strength and inspiration they need to teach with passion and purpose.
Do you want to make a tangible difference in the lives of learners? Are you looking for a career opportunity that empowers you to reach your full potential? If so, you may want to consider the many benefits of becoming a teacher at a First Nations public school in the Yukon. Contact the First Nations School Board to learn more about our curriculum or to find out about job openings.
