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Dakota Language and Culture Teacher
Position Purpose 
Hastings Public Schools is searching for a 1.0 FTE Dakota Culture and Language Teacher at our elementary sites to teach Dakota language and culture on a rotation at Kennedy Elementary, Pinecrest Elementary, and McAuliffe Elementary. Under general supervision of the school principals and the Director of Teaching and Learning. The position will rotate between buildings throughout the school year. This person is in charge of the daily delivery of instruction and assessment of student learning. They will use this role to contribute directly to the preservation and growth of the Dakota language and culture, empowering students to develop linguistic skills, cultural identity, and a strong sense of belonging.

The Dakota Language Teacher is responsible for developing and delivering high-quality instruction in the Dakota language while centering Dakota culture, identity, and ways of knowing. This role plays a critical part in language revitalization efforts by creating engaging, culturally grounded learning experiences for students. The teacher fosters a classroom environment that honors Indigenous knowledge systems and builds student pride, proficiency, and connection to the Dakota language and community.
Essential Functions

• Design and deliver standards-aligned Dakota language instruction
• Develop culturally relevant curriculum that integrates Dakota history, traditions, values, and contemporary perspectives
• Use a variety of instructional strategies to support language acquisition (speaking, listening, reading, and writing)
• Differentiate instruction to meet diverse student needs, including multilingual learners and students with varying levels of prior exposure
• Support the preservation and revitalization of the Dakota language through authentic, community-connected practices
• Integrate Dakota cultural teachings, storytelling, and land-based learning into instruction
• Collaborate with Dakota elders, cultural advisors, and community members to ensure authenticity and respect
• Monitor and assess student progress in language proficiency using a variety of formative and summative assessments
• Provide timely, meaningful feedback to students and families
• Use data to inform instruction and support continuous improvement
• Collaborate with colleagues to align curriculum, share practices, and support interdisciplinary learning
• Participate in Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) and ongoing professional development
• Serve as a resource for staff on culturally responsive and sustaining practices
• Engage families and community partners in supporting student learning
• Create a safe, inclusive, and respectful learning environment rooted in relationship-building
• Establish clear expectations that promote student engagement and responsibility
• Continues to acquire professional knowledge and learn of current developments in the educational field by attending seminars, workshops or professional meetings, or by conducting research.
• Encourages parental involvement in students' education and ensures effective communication with students and parents.
• Coordinates with other professional staff members, especially within grade level, and participates in faculty meetings and committees.
   
  

Additional Duties 
Performs other related tasks as assigned by the Principal and other central office administrators as designated by the Superintendent. 
                Note:    The above description is illustrative of tasks and responsibilities.  It is not meant to be all inclusive of every task or responsibility. 
Equipment 
Uses standard office equipment such as personal computers, printer, copy and fax machines, and telephone. 
Travel Requirements 
Travels to school district buildings and professional meetings as required. 
Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Knowledge of current teaching methods and educational pedagogy, as well as differentiated instruction based upon student learning styles.
• Knowledge of the identified language, in terms of grammar, word usage, word denotations and connotations, and literature.
• Knowledge of data information systems, data analysis and the formulation of action plans.
• Knowledge of applicable federal and state laws regarding education and students.
• Ability to use computer network system and software applications as needed.
• Ability to organize and coordinate work.
• Ability to communicate effectively with students and parents.
• Ability to engage in self-evaluation with regard to performance and professional growth.
• Ability to establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others contacted in the course of work.

Physical and Mental Demands, Work Hazards 
Works in standard office and school building environments. 
                Note:    Also see the Summary of Physical, Sensory and Environmental Requirements Needed to Perform Essential Functions for this position. 
Qualifications Profile

• Required:
  • Fluency in the Dakota language (speaking and listening; reading/writing preferred or willingness to develop)
  • Valid MN teaching license or eligibility to obtain licensure (state-specific requirements may vary) in Dakota or American Indian Language and Culture
  • Knowledge of Dakota culture, history, and community practices
• Preferred
  • Experience teaching Dakota language or other Indigenous/heritage languages
  • Experience working with Indigenous students and communities
  • Familiarity with language revitalization frameworks and immersion or proficiency-based instruction
  • Experience developing curriculum and assessments

Education

• Bachelors from an accredited college or university in education discipline applicable to teaching assignment.
• Masters Degree in related area preferred.

Experience 
Successful prior language teaching experience a plus. 
FLSA Status:       Exempt