Family Support Worker - Indigenous Education (Term)

Ottawa Catholic School Board; Ottawa; On-site; CAD 68,000 - 74,000; Full time

Job summary

An educational organization in Ottawa seeks a Family Support Worker for Indigenous Education. This temporary full-time role supports K-12 schools, focusing on student engagement and success through personalized mentoring and collaboration. Ideal candidates have relevant degrees, experience working with Indigenous communities, and strong communication skills. Salary ranges from $68,594 to $73,846, with the position anticipated to last until July 2026.

Qualifications

• Five years of related experience working with Indigenous students and families.
• Traditional knowledge of local Indigenous communities.
• Knowledge of Jordan’s Principle and restorative practices.

Responsibilities

• Identify and support Indigenous students to increase engagement.
• Develop intervention strategies and transition support.
• Collaborate with school staff to address barriers to student success.

Skills

Mentoring and advocacy

Excellent communication

Organizational skills

Collaboration

Education

Degree in a relevant field

Job description

Overview

Family Support Worker – Indigenous Education (Term) at Ottawa Catholic School Board (OCSB). This is a temporary, full-time (1.0 FTE) term position with start as soon as possible and end date anticipated July 10, 2026, with possible extension. Salary range: $68,594.00 – $73,846.00 (prorated to duration).

Work Location and Reporting

Location: Supporting K-12 schools in the Ottawa Catholic School Board. Reports to the Indigenous Cultural Advisor and collaborates with the Indigenous Education Coordinator.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with school board staff (administrators, guidance counsellors, and others) to identify and provide support to Indigenous students to increase engagement and achievement, considering academic records, behaviour, attendance and family status.
• Develop needs assessments and intervention strategies for students, including plans for transition support, graduation and career attainment.
• When needed, assemble a graduation team for select students, including teachers, family and other resources from inside and outside of the schools.
• Work with administrators, teachers and parents / guardians to address barriers affecting engagement, wellbeing and learning of students.
• Conduct in-person and virtual meetings with students and families to provide support.
• Act as a mentor, advisor and advocate for students with teachers, school staff, parents / guardians and community members.
• Explore career possibilities with students and support pursuit of career interests.
• Support academic progress by arranging tutoring, assisting course planning, facilitating peer mentoring and providing role modelling.
• Create opportunities for students to participate in cultural activities and community events (including times outside regular school activities).
• Establish relationships with Indigenous service agencies.
• Prepare reports and statistics on program progression and outcomes.

Qualifications

• Degree, diploma or post-secondary education in a relevant field and / or equivalent (equivalents are encouraged to be provided).
• Five years of related experience working with Indigenous students and families; lived or life experience deeply rooted in local Indigenous communities is welcomed.
• Traditional knowledge and understanding of local Indigenous communities; awareness of local community resources and ability to support access and navigation.
• Knowledge / awareness of Jordan’s Principle / Child First Initiative and understanding of restorative practices.
• Proven ability to mentor, advise and advocate for students; ability to deliver presentations and engage staff and students; able to plan events for large groups.
• Excellent organizational, collaboration and communication skills; ability to work occasional evenings and weekends to meet program needs.
• Valid driver’s license and access to a vehicle (schools are across Ottawa).
• The equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered.
• Assets: Ability to speak French, Anishinaabemowin, Inuktitut or other Indigenous languages; preference given to Algonquin descent; prior experience in a school board or education setting.

Employment Details

• Status: Temporary, full-time (1.0 FTE) term position.
• Duration: Start as soon as possible; end date anticipated July 10, 2026; extension potential.
• Work location: Supporting K-12 schools in the Ottawa area.

Application Process

• How to Apply: Applications must be submitted through Apply to Education by 5:00 pm on October 14, 2025. If you are a current OCSB employee, use your OCSB ATE account. Incomplete submissions may affect eligibility.
• Note: A police record check for the Vulnerable Sector may be required upon completion of a successful interview.
• Interviews: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Privacy: References will be contacted only if you are selected to move forward in the hiring process.

Equity and Accessibility

OCSB is committed to equitable hiring and an inclusive workforce that reflects the diversity of our students and communities. Preference will be given to Indigenous persons and to applicants who contribute to the diversification of ideas and perspectives. We acknowledge the land as the traditional unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishnabek Peoples and extend respect to all First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.

Additional Information

AI may be utilized throughout the selection and recruitment process. For accommodations under the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA), contact the Human Resources Department via email before the posting closing date.

Data Privacy : Personal information collected for employment purposes will be used in accordance with applicable privacy laws.