Zagbegon Teacher I

Position Summary:

Zagbëgon Academy is dedicated to providing a nurturing, culturally grounded early learning environment rooted in PBOPI (Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians) language, culture, and traditions. Our programs empower young children to grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually guided by the 7 Grandfather Teachings: wisdom, love, respect, courage, honesty, humility, and family.

Essential Functions:

• Create a stimulating, inclusive, and developmentally appropriate learning environment that supports each child’s full potential and school readiness.

• Design and implement lesson plans aligned with Zagbëgon guidelines and/or Michigan Academic Standards, promoting academic rigor, health, and well-being, including but not limited to, foundational literacy, math, science, and social-emotional development.
• Incorporate culturally relevant content, including Bodéwadmi language and the 7 Grandfather Teachings, into daily instruction.
• Use positive, research-based classroom management strategies to ensure a safe and productive learning environment.
• Evaluate student progress, support IEP development, and collaborate with specialists to address academic and social-emotional needs.
• Engage families through regular communication, home visits, and strategies to support learning at home.
• Supervise and mentor co-teachers and volunteers, modeling professional and respectful conduct.
• Maintain accurate records, including attendance, lesson plans, student files, and parent contacts; submit monthly reports to the Site Manager or Elementary Education Specialist.
• Participate in staff meetings, professional development, and assist with programs such as Kë Gbéshmen Summer Camp.
• Practice Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports (PBIS), when applicable.

Non-Essential Functions:

• Perform additional duties as assigned by the supervisor or director.

Equipment:

• Standard office equipment
• Systems used: MS Office Applications

Position Requirements:

Teacher I (PB-4):

• Must possesses or be willing to pursue an Associate Degree in Early Childhood or Child Development Associate (CDA) or degree in related field, required.
• Minimum of one (1) year of experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting is preferred.
• Willingness to learn Bodéwadmi language and culture, and to participate in ongoing training is required.
• Experience working with tribal communities is preferred.
• Knowledgeable in early childhood education methods and practices
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state and local laws, rules and regulations.

Teacher II (PB-5):

Everything above in addition to the following:

• Current Child Development Associate (CDA), or associate degree AND actively pursuing a bachelor's degree in early childhood education, Elementary Education, or Special Education is required.
• Minimum of three (3) years of experience working with young children in an educational or childcare setting is preferred.
• Provide guidance and mentorship to Teacher I and classroom volunteers.
• Must model professional and culturally responsive teaching practices.
• Ability to collaborate with specialists and support staff to ensure inclusive, individualized instruction.

Teacher III (PB-6):

Everything above in addition to the following:

• Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in Early Childhood Education, Elementary Education, Special Education, or related field is required.

Minimum of five (5) years of experience in an Early Childhood classroom, Elementary, Primary School, or Private Early Childhood Educational Institution is preferred.

Teacher IV (PB-7)

Everything above in addition to the following:

• Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in Education from an accredited college or university is required.
• Endorsement with a valid Michigan teaching certificate (K-5 all Subjects, ZC, ZG, or ZO) is required
• Candidates holding a bachelor’s degree who are committed to obtaining Michigan teaching certification may be considered. If hired without certification, the candidate must achieve certification within one year of employment.
• One (1) year of successful teaching experience is preferred.
• Experience working with tribal communities is preferred.

A core goal of the Zagbëgon program is to integrate the Potawatomi language into every aspect of the daily classroom experience. All Teachers are encouraged to learn and actively use the language throughout the day with students. As an incentive, staff who demonstrate growth in their Potawatomi language knowledge and usage will be eligible for incremental wage increases tied to their proficiency and application of the language.

Indian Preference

• Pokagon Band Preference Code applies

Physical Requirements:

• Positions in this class typically require finger dexterity, feeling, talking, hearing, seeing and repetitive motions. Incumbent may be subjected to stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, standing, walking, pushing, lifting, climbing, and balancing.

Work environment:

• Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally and/or up to 20 pounds of force frequently and/or up to 10 pounds of force constantly to move objects.

Competencies:

• Collaboration
• Inspiring Others
• Fostering Learning & Development
• Adaptability
• Creativity & Innovation