Principal

Principal (K–12)

Sakastew School – Mathias Colomb Cree Nation
Full-Time | Permanent
Start Date: September 2026

Join Our Leadership Team

Sakastew School is seeking an experienced, compassionate, and visionary Principal to lead our K–12 school community. The successful candidate will be an educational leader who understands that the foundation of a successful school is built on relationships, trust, cultural responsiveness, and a deep commitment to student success.

The Principal will provide instructional leadership while supporting the academic, social, emotional, cultural, and spiritual well-being of our students. Working collaboratively with staff, families, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, Chief and Council, and community members, the Principal will help create a learning environment where every student feels valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Sakastew School is committed to strengthening student achievement while honouring Cree language, culture, land-based learning, and the unique strengths of our community. We are seeking a leader who recognizes that education is not only about academic outcomes but also about relationships, belonging, identity, and preparing youth for a successful future.

Key Responsibilities

Educational Leadership

• Provide visionary leadership that promotes academic excellence, student achievement, and lifelong learning.
• Support the implementation of Manitoba Education requirements, including the Appropriate Educational Programming (AEP) framework, inclusive education practices, and curriculum expectations.
• Lead school improvement planning, goal setting, data-informed decision-making, and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Support teachers in implementing effective instructional practices, differentiated learning, and culturally responsive pedagogy.
• Promote innovative approaches to learning, including land-based education and opportunities that connect students to Cree language, culture, and community.

Student-Centred Leadership

• Create a safe, welcoming, and inclusive school environment where students feel a strong sense of belonging.
• Recognize that student success is connected to relationships, emotional well-being, cultural identity, and personal growth.
• Support trauma-informed practices and ensure students' emotional and social needs are considered alongside academic goals.
• Develop systems that support student attendance, engagement, wellness, and positive behaviour.
• Build meaningful relationships with students and ensure student voices are heard in school decision-making.

Staff Leadership and Development

• Foster a positive school culture built on collaboration, respect, trust, and professional growth.
• Support staff morale by recognizing achievements, promoting teamwork, and creating an environment where staff feel valued and supported.
• Provide mentorship, coaching, and feedback to teachers, Educational Assistants, and support staff.
• Encourage professional learning opportunities that strengthen teaching practices and student supports.
• Promote strong communication and collaboration among all members of the school team.

Community and Cultural Leadership

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with families, Elders, Knowledge Keepers, caregivers, and community organizations.
• Honour and support Cree language, culture, traditions, and community priorities within the school environment.
• Work collaboratively with Chief and Council and the Mathias Colomb Cree Nation community to advance educational goals.
• Encourage meaningful family and community involvement in student learning.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Oversee daily school operations, including staffing, scheduling, budgeting, safety procedures, and school policies.
• Ensure compliance with Manitoba Education standards and First Nations education requirements.
• Support inclusive programming and effective use of student services and resources.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation related to student programming, staffing, and school operations.

Qualifications

The successful candidate will possess:

• A valid Manitoba Teaching Certificate (or eligibility for certification).
• A Master’s Degree in Education, Educational Leadership, Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Minimum of five years of successful teaching experience.
• Previous administrative or leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of Manitoba curriculum, assessment practices, and inclusive education.
• Experience developing and supporting Individual Education Plans (IEPs) and student-specific programming.
• Demonstrated ability to lead school improvement initiatives.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Commitment to culturally responsive education and Indigenous ways of knowing.
• Experience working with Indigenous students, families, and communities is considered a strong asset.

Personal Attributes

The ideal candidate will be:

• A relational leader who believes that strong relationships are the foundation of student success.
• Compassionate, approachable, and responsive to the needs and emotions of students, staff, and families.
• A strong communicator who listens before making decisions.
• A problem-solver who approaches challenges with creativity, patience, and understanding.
• A leader who values community voice and recognizes the importance of culture and identity in education.
• Committed to creating a school environment where students feel safe, supported, and inspired.

We Offer

• The opportunity to lead a dedicated and passionate school community.
• A supportive environment focused on student success and community growth.
• Opportunities to strengthen Indigenous education, Cree language, culture, and land-based learning.
• Professional growth opportunities.
• The opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of students and families.

Interested applicants are invited to submit a:

• Cover Letter
• Resume
• Manitoba Teaching Certificate
• Three professional references

Sakastew School thanks all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Sakastew School is committed to building a culturally responsive, inclusive, and student-centred learning environment. We encourage applications from individuals who share our commitment to supporting Indigenous youth, strengthening community relationships, and creating a brighter future for our students.