Yakama Language Cultural Specialist

Tribal School

Department of Human Services

Hourly Wage: $30.56/Regular/Full-Time

Yakama Language Cultural Specialist is responsible for the facilitation, implementation and support in promoting the development and utilization of the Ichishkin Language through class learning and extra-curricular activities. Duties consist of providing support to the instructional process by serving as a Teacher with specific responsibility in developing student success in academics (i.e.: reading, writing, etc.). Will provide instruction to increase student's ability to understand, speak and use written form of the Ichishkin Language, supervising students within the classroom, develop lesson plans within established curriculum guidelines and collaborate with other Teachers, Consultants and Administrators in addressing instructional and/or classroom needs and concerns.

Examples of Work Performed:

• Adapts classroom work (i.e.: Yakama Language, culturally relevant activities, etc.) for the purpose of providing students with instructional material that addresses individualized learning plans within established plans to enhance oral and written communication of the Ichishkin language.
• Develop, structure and implement effective classroom and web based vocabulary and grammar/syntax study tools and activities to maximize students' language acquisition of the Ichishkin Language and Cultural curriculum for the purpose of teaching Tribal School students the language and cultural importance of the Yakama Nation, which is a requirement needed to meet graduation.
• Administer subject specific assessments and test for assessing the level of students' competencies of vocabulary, pronunciation syntax, practical usage and spelling of the Ichishkin Language.
• Conduct on-going assessments of student progress towards development, acquisition, objectives, expectations and/or goals for providing feedback to students, parents/legal guardians and administration for communicating expectations, student's achievements, developing methods of improvement and/or reinforcing classroom goals in the home environment.
• Plan, supervise and participate in various school events and cultural activities for maintaining knowledge of the Yakama Nation history and culture.
• Coordinate with Tribal School Administration and Special Education Coordinator and/or Teachers for the purpose of identifying and offering effective support to special needs students.
• Enhance the development of student language learning by incorporating culturally relevant instructional strategies for students with little to no Ichishkin language exposure.
• Select age and ability appropriate methods of instruction to enhance Ichishkin language acquisition and design structured learning activities that promote active student participation and manages student behavior for providing a safe and optimal learning environment.
• Actively participate in appropriate cultural activities, meetings and trainings (on and off-site) to ensure the conveyance and/or gathering of current cultural relevance while developing lessons and materials.
• Perform other related duties as assigned for ensuring the efficient and effective functioning of the language program.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of Indigenous education and has used pedagogy techniques, as well as differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of Ichishkin language grammar, word usage, word denotations and connotations, spelling, literature and other content areas taught.
• Knowledge in all aspects of curriculum design and development including governance, program development processes, learning outcomes, and assessment and teaching strategies.
• Knowledge in Project Management, particularly as it relates to program review and renewal, new program development, and course curriculum development and the ability to complete projects on time and within scope.
• Knowledge of cultural traditions, religions and customs of the Yakama Nation.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis, assessment instruments and the formulation of lesson plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed, such as Zoom and Google Classroom.
• Ability to organize, coordinate work, maintain accurate records, and analyze data.
• Ability to communicate and interact with all levels of administration, parents, students and staff with strong interpersonal skills, written and orally.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth as well as demonstrate commitment to continuous improvement.
  

• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.
• Ability to demonstrate innovative, inclusive and collaborative practices with integrity, energy and a culturally

respectful research approach.

• Ability to analyze and resolve complex issues, both logical and interpersonal.
• Ability to manage multiple processes and activities simultaneously.
• Ability to work collaboratively and independently in consultations, projects, and organization events.
• Ability to build and maintain strong, positive relationships with multiple, diverse communities.
• Ability to commit to an inclusive, accessible environment that celebrates and promotes understanding and respect of the diversity of Indigenous Peoples.
• Job requires lifting, carrying, pushing and/or pulling of various items and significant finger dexterity.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in Education, Indigenous Studies or related field.
• Three years of experience instructing or developing curriculum and one year of experience in teaching the Yakama Language orally. An equivalent combination of education and experience will substitute to meet qualifications.
• Must have a Washington State Teacher's Certificate, preferably endorsed in First People's Language, Culture and Oral Tribal Traditions or a related field, or Washington State Substitute Teacher Certificate.
• Experience with long-term, standards-based lesson planning and curriculum preparation as part of a teacher credentialing program or professional teaching experience.
• Must be fluent in one of the Yakama surviving dialects and possess the ability to relate distinguished differences and similarities.
• Must possess a valid Washington State Driver's License with the ability to obtain a Tribal Driver's Permit.
• Must possess a First Aid/CPR and Blood Borne Pathogen or ability to obtain one within six months of hire.
• Required to pass pre-employment drug test.
• This extensive background check requires fingerprinting for state and federal criminal background records. The background search will include, but not limited to; arrests, criminal charges, criminal convictions, DUI's and any information regarding contact with a criminal justice agency.
• Must not have any history of drug and alcohol abuse.
• Must not have any history of child abuse and neglect.
• Enrolled Yakama Preference, but all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.
  

Preferred Requirements:

• Master's Degree in Education or related field.
  

NOTICE TO APPLICANTS: The Yakama Nation is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

PRE-EMPLOYMENT DRUG TEST: Is required for Pre-Employment with the Yakama Nation. During employment, tribal employees are also subject to random testing (YN Personnel Policy Manual, Chapter 2.9.6, Section (a), (g), Alcohol and Drug-Free Workplace Policy).

TRAINEE: The Yakama Nation reserves the right to practice Indian Preference by selecting an Indian applicant as a trainee at a reduced pay rate than announced. A training plan is developed to assist employee to reach required qualification requirements and performance level. After completing training plan, work performance will be evaluated. Upon satisfying qualification requirements, employee will obtain entry level pay.

INDIAN PREFERENCE: In efforts to practice Self-Determination, the Yakama Nation grants Indian Preference for employment, promotions, and transfers to its employees and qualified applicants as appropriate. This may limit career opportunities for non-Indian applicants and candidates.

Preference for employment will be granted to qualified individuals meeting minimal qualification criteria in the following order pursuant to the YN Personnel Policy Manual Section 2.1.3:

• 10-points= Enrolled member of Yakama Nation.
• 8-points= Indian (enrolled) spouse of an enrolled Yakama member.
• 6-points= Other Indian (member of a federally recognized tribe).
• 8-points= Indian (enrolled) descendant of enrolled Yakama member.
• 2-points= Non-Indian spouse of an enrolled Yakama member.
• 0-points= Non-Indian.

Personnel Policy Manual Section 2.1.4:

• Positions funded under non-638 federal funding: 8-points= Indian (member of a federally recognized tribe).

VETERAN PREFERENCE: Is pursuant to Section 402 of the Vietnam Era Veteran's Readjustment Assistance Act of 1974. For verification, must provide a copy of honorable DD-214.

Application points using the weighted point factor system: Disabled Veterans receive 10 points; All other Veteran's receive 5 points.

IMMIGRATION: If selected for employment with the Yakama Nation, you will be required to provide documentation stating you are authorized to work in the United States.

SELECTIVE SERVICE: All males born after December 31, 1959 must be registered with the Selective Service. To our knowledge, you may sign up at the U.S. Postal Service in your local area.

TO APPLY: https://yakama.isolvedhire.com/ Yakama Nation Human Resources, P. O. BOX 151, Toppenish WA 98948.

Phone: (509) 865-5121, X4387, X4833. Fax: (509) 865-8777 email: ynapplications@yakama.com

If you are mailing or faxing application, please state Job Announcement No. on your cover sheet.

Questions, please call the YN Human Resource Office.