American Indian Cultural Liaison

South St. Paul Public Schools
Job Title: American Indian Cultural Liaison
Date: Immediate Opening
Reports To: Educational Services

Job Summary:

The American Indian Education Program at South St. Paul Public Schools aims to enhance the educational experience and outcomes for American Indian students. Our mission is to provide culturally relevant educational opportunities that foster academic success, cultural pride, and a sense of identity. The American Indian Cultural Liaison serves as a key support for students and families, ensuring that academic and cultural needs are met in alignment with the district’s goals.

The role encompasses five main program areas:

• Academic support

• Family/community resources and advocacy

• Cultural events and activities

• College visits & post-secondary preparation

• Indigenous resource library

This position plays a crucial part in improving the academic achievement, graduation rates, and school climate for American Indian students, while fostering a culturally responsive learning environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Relationship Building: Develop positive, meaningful relationships with American Indian students and their families through regular check-ins, individual support, and group/community activities.

• Cultural Support: Coordinate and facilitate cultural programs that strengthen students’ connection to their identity, including culturally relevant materials, tribal languages, and traditions.

• Program Coordination: Oversee programming in line with the American Indian Education Plan. This includes providing academic support, advocating for families, organizing cultural events, field trips, and hosting guest educators.

• Parent and Community Engagement: Lead and support the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (AIPAC). Provide guidance on relevant state and district policies, deadlines, and rights.

• Budget and Resource Management: Collaborate with the Office of Equity & Learning to manage the American Indian Education budget. Ensure timely and accurate submission of invoices, reimbursements, and financial documentation.

• Advocacy & Support: Serve as a liaison between families, school staff, and district leadership to ensure students have access to necessary resources. Assist families with completing 506 forms, enrollment paperwork, and other documentation.

• Academic Monitoring: Monitor the academic progress of American Indian students, ensuring academic support is provided where needed, particularly in reading, math, and college readiness.

• Culturally Responsive Practices: Advocate for the inclusion of American Indian culture and content standards in K-12 classrooms. Provide professional development and resources for staff to support this initiative.

• Family & Student Advocacy: Serve as a key point of contact for families, assisting with school enrollment, food service applications, transportation, and other services. Promote engagement in school activities and encourage positive academic and behavioral development.

• Collaboration: Work closely with school district staff, community partners, and local tribes to create a supportive educational environment for American Indian students.

• System Improvement: Identify and address barriers to student success. Advocate for educational equity and contribute to continuous improvement in district policies and practices.

Qualifications:

• Education: High school diploma required; Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree preferred.

• Experience: Minimum of two years working with or advocating for the American Indian community preferred.

• Cultural Knowledge: Knowledge of and experience with American Indian education programs, culture, and heritage.

• Communication: Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage culturally diverse families and serve as a liaison between schools and families.

• Advocacy: Passion for promoting success for American Indian students and families, and a desire to create more culturally responsive educational practices.

• Confidentiality: Ability to handle sensitive information with discretion and maintain confidentiality.

• Technology Skills: Proficiency in using technology for communication and program management.

• Flexibility: Willingness to work flexible hours, including evening meetings for Native American Parent Advisory Committee (NAPAC) and School Board meetings (1-3 times per month).

• Transportation: Valid driver’s license and dependable transportation preferred.

• Attendance: Demonstrated reliability in regular and prompt attendance.

Physical Requirements:

• Regularly required to sit, stand, walk, talk, and hear.

• Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment.

• Must occasionally lift or move up to 10 pounds.

• Vision abilities required include close vision.