Job Description

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

Job Title: Speech and Language Pathologist

Department: Bkejwanong Kinomaagewgamig Elementary School

Pay Rate: Dependent on Qualifications

Status: Full-time, Contract

Closing Date: October 28th, 2025

Position:

The Speech and Language Pathologist (SLP) will play a key role in providing speech and language support to students at Bkejwanong Kinomaagewgamig Elementary School. The SLP will assess, diagnose, and provide therapy for children with speech, language, and communication disorders, ensuring culturally sensitive practices that reflect the values, traditions, and community needs of Walpole Island First Nation.

The SLP will collaborate with teachers, educational assistants, and other staff members to create an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students, particularly in fostering strong communication skills rooted in the rich cultural heritage of the community.

Requirements:

EDUCATION:

Master's degree in Speech-Language Pathology from an accredited program. Licensed or eligible for licensure as a Speech-Language Pathologist in Ontario.

EXPERIENCE:

Minimum of 2-3 years of clinical experience working with children, ideally in a school or community-based setting. Experience with Indigenous communities and knowledge of culturally appropriate practices for supporting communication and language development. Familiarity with Anishinaabe language and culture is considered an asset.

SKILLS & EFFORT REQUIREMENTS

Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with students, parents, teachers, and other professionals. Ability to design and implement individualized therapy plans that are culturally sensitive and age-appropriate. Strong knowledge of speech and language disorders and treatment strategies, including articulation, language, fluency, and social communication. Cultural humility and understanding of the importance of integrating Indigenous perspectives and practices in therapeutic services. Ability to work collaboratively with a multidisciplinary team.

OTHER

Must possess a valid Ontario Driver's License and have dependable transportation. Will be subject to a Vulnerable Sector Check. To present a positive role model, the candidate must live an addiction-free lifestyle. Valid First Aid and CPR certification (or willingness to obtain).

Responsibilities:

Assess and Diagnose:

Conduct comprehensive assessments to evaluate the speech, language, and communication abilities of students, identifying any delays or disorders, and developing individualized treatment plans.

Develop Individualized

Therapy Plans: Tailor therapeutic programs to meet the needs of students, integrating culturally sensitive methods that reflect Indigenous perspectives and values.

Therapeutic Intervention:

Provide direct therapy services to students with speech, language, or communication challenges, using evidence-based practices while ensuring respect for Indigenous languages and cultural traditions.

Collaborate with Educators and Families:

Work closely with teachers, special education staff, and families to integrate speech and language strategies into everyday classroom activities and at-home practices.

Support IEP Development:

Contribute to the creation of Individual Education Plans (IEPs) that reflect the unique needs of each student, incorporating culturally relevant goals and learning strategies.

Cultural Sensitivity in Practice:

Incorporate knowledge of Anishinaabe language, customs, and values into therapy approaches, ensuring that cultural context is embedded in speech and language interventions.

Provide Training:

Educate staff and families on the importance of speech and language development, and provide guidance on fostering communication skills in culturally respectful ways.

Advocate for Community Needs:

Advocate for the inclusion of Indigenous perspectives and the promotion of language revitalization efforts within the school setting, encouraging the use of Anishinaabe words and phrases where appropriate.

Record Keeping and Reporting:

Maintain accurate records of student progress, interventions, and outcomes, ensuring compliance with confidentiality standards and providing regular reports to parents and school administrators.
Other

Other duties as assigned

Cultural Considerations:

Walpole Island First Nation is committed to preserving and promoting Anishinaabe culture, language, and traditions. The Speech and Language Pathologist will work to ensure that therapy practices are in harmony with the community's values and that cultural sensitivity is woven throughout the services provided. The successful candidate will demonstrate a willingness to learn about Anishinaabe customs, language, and traditions, and will respect the community's connection to land, family, and spirituality. This includes fostering an understanding of the importance of oral traditions and storytelling in Anishinaabe culture and integrating these practices into speech and language interventions where applicable.

Working Conditions:

Work Environment:

Primarily school-based, with therapy conducted in classrooms, resource rooms, and during individual or small group sessions. Interaction with students, teachers, parents, and community members.
Schedule:

Full-time hours, Monday to Friday, during regular school hours. Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for meetings, training, or school events.

How to Apply:

Please submit your resume and cover letter describing the qualifications above to:

Walpole Island First Nation

Human Resources

Mail: 117 Tahgahoning Rd,

Wallaceburg, ON

N8A 4K9

or

Fax: 519-627-5915

or

Email: Careers@wifn.org

We thank all applicants for their interest. Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

Job Types: Full-time, Fixed term contract
Contract length: 8 months

Pay: From $33.63 per hour

Expected hours: 35 per week

Education:

Bachelor's Degree (preferred)
Work Location: In person