Native American Liaison- GRANT FUNDED

Job Title:

Native American Liaison

Department: Federal Programs
Reports To: Associate Superintendent of Federal Programs
Work Year: 195 Days

Position Summary

The Native American Liaison provides districtwide support to strengthen relationships among schools, Native American students, families, and tribal communities to promote student achievement, engagement, and well-being. This position is responsible for improving communication, increasing family and community involvement, supporting attendance initiatives, and helping ensure culturally responsive practices across the district.

This role works in close collaboration with district programs, including the English Language Development (ELD) Coordinator, to align supports, remove barriers to attendance, and enhance student success through coordinated and culturally informed efforts.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Family and Community Engagement

• Build and maintain strong, trusting relationships with Native American families and tribal communities
• Conduct outreach to increase family participation in school events, programs, and decision-making opportunities
• Serve as a primary point of contact for Native American families seeking support or guidance
• Facilitate communication between schools and families to ensure access to information and services

Student Support and Advocacy

• Support Native American students in overcoming barriers to attendance, engagement, and academic success
• Collaborate with school staff to identify and address student needs
• Promote a sense of belonging, cultural pride, and connection to school
• Assist students and families in navigating school systems and accessing available resources

Attendance and Engagement Initiatives

• Collaborate with district staff, including the Attendance Liaison(s) and ELD Coordinator, to implement strategies that improve attendance and student engagement
• Identify root causes of chronic absenteeism and assist in developing responsive supports
• Support development and implementation of culturally relevant programming that encourages consistent school participation

Cultural Responsiveness and Staff Support

• Provide guidance and support to staff on culturally responsive practices and perspectives
• Assist in integrating Native American culture, language, and traditions into school environments and activities
• Support planning and coordination of cultural events, presentations, and learning opportunities

Program Coordination and Collaboration

• Collaborate with federal programs (Title I, Title VI/Indian Education, Title III, and HDIISD) to align services and maximize impact
• Build partnerships with tribal organizations and community agencies to support students and families
• Participate in district initiatives focused on improving outcomes for Native American students

Data, Documentation, and Accountability

• Maintain records of outreach, services, and family engagement efforts
• Assist in monitoring student attendance and engagement trends
• Contribute to program evaluation and reporting requirements
• Support continuous improvement efforts aligned with district goals

Qualifications

Required

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Demonstrated knowledge of Native American culture, traditions, and community dynamics
• Experience working with Native American students, families, or communities
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to build trust, maintain confidentiality, and work collaboratively

Preferred

• Associate’s or bachelor’s degree in education, social work, or related field
• Bilingual skills (e.g., Navajo/Diné language)
• Experience in schools, community outreach, or family engagement roles
• Familiarity with federal programs supporting Native American students

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Understanding of culturally responsive practices and their impact on student success
• Ability to build strong relationships with students, families, and community partners
• Effective communication and collaboration skills
• Ability to identify and address barriers to attendance and engagement
• Organizational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities
• Ability to work effectively with diverse populations

Working Conditions

• Combination of office, school-site, and community-based environments
• Frequent travel between district schools and community locations
• Occasional evening or after-hours meetings for family and community events

Performance Outcomes / Expected Impact

• Increased Native American family engagement and participation
• Improved student attendance rates
• Stronger student connection to school and sense of belonging
• Reduction in barriers affecting academic progress
• Enhanced collaboration with tribal partners and community organizations

Evaluation

Performance will be evaluated annually in accordance with district policy and based on family engagement outcomes, attendance improvements, program effectiveness, and overall impact on student success.