For teachers seeking purpose, growth and awards, Northern British Columbia delivers.

Northern communities offer tight-knit schools, outdoor adventure and the chance to make a lasting impact. They also provide three opportunities for financial awards for teachers who move north:

• Northern B.C. Return of Service Award 
• Northern B.C. Relocation Award 
• Northern B.C. Practicum Award 

Northern B.C. Return of Service Award: Up to $18,000 Toward Tuition 

The Northern B.C. Return of Service Award helps future teachers' pay for their education and gain experience in northern schools. 

Teacher candidates who commit to teaching in a participating northern school district after graduation can receive up to $18,000 applied directly toward tuition in their final year of study. 

You may qualify if you: 

• Are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident 
• Are enrolled full-time in an approved teacher education program in B.C. 
• Are in the final year of your teacher education program 
• Application timeline 
• Application deadline: Oct. 17, 2025 
• Review period: Oct. 17–31, 2025 
• Notifications sent: Nov. 3–14, 2025 

Submit your completed application form, transcript, written responses and a reference letter to Workforce.Development@gov.bc.ca by Oct. 17. Please note that late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. 

Participating School Districts

• SD59 Peace River South
• SD60 Peace River North
• SD81 Fort Nelson
• SD91 Nechako Lakes
• SD92 Nisga'a
• SD93 Conseil scolaire francophone 

Northern B.C. Relocation Award: Financial Help to Move for Teacher Education 

If you live in Northern B.C. and need to relocate for in-person teacher education coursework, the Northern B.C. Relocation Award can help cover moving costs. 

This Ministry of Education and Child Care–funded program supports students attending teacher education programs delivered in Northern B.C. 

What You Can Receive 

Eligible candidates can receive $800 per week, up to a maximum of $8,000 in relocation support. 

To qualify, you must: 

• Currently live in Northern B.C. 
• Be enrolled in a teacher education program offered in Northern B.C. 
• Need to relocate to attend in-person coursework 

Participating Universities

• University of British Columbia (UBC) 
• University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) 
• Simon Fraser University (SFU) 

This award is administered by each teacher education program, so application deadlines may vary. Contact your university program office for more information. 

Northern B.C. Practicum Award: $8,000 for Rural or Remote Placements 

Want to experience teaching in a northern community during your practicum? The Northern B.C. Practicum Award provides up to $8,000 to support relocation and living expenses for teacher candidates completing their final practicum in a rural or remote northern school. 

This program encourages future teachers to explore rural placements and build long-term connections with schools and communities in Northern B.C. 

You may be eligible if you: 

• Are enrolled in a public post-secondary teacher education program in B.C. 
• Are eligible for your final practicum placement this year 
• Have an interest in teaching and living in a rural or remote community 
• Accept a practicum placement in one of the participating northern school districts 

Teacher candidates completing practicums in the following northern districts may qualify: 

• SD27 Cariboo-Chilcotin
• SD28 Quesnel  
• SD49 Central Coast  
• SD50 Haida Gwaii  
• SD52 Prince Rupert  
• SD54 Bulkley Valley 
• SD57 Prince George  
• SD59 Peace River South 
• SD60 Peace River North 
• SD81 Fort Nelson  
• SD82 Coast Mountains
• SD87 Stikine
• SD91 Nechako Lakes
• SD92 Nisga'a  
• SD93 Conseil scolaire francophone 

This award is also administered by teacher education programs. Contact your program office for specific application details. 

Why Teach in Northern British Columbia? 

Teaching in Northern B.C. offers more than career experience; it's a lifestyle. From mountain trails and lakes to culturally rich, tight-knit communities, the region is full of opportunity and adventure. 

With programs like the Return of Service, Relocation and Practicum Awards, it's never been easier to start your career where you can truly make a difference. 

Learn More and Apply 

Learn more about Northern B.C. school districts and life in the naturally gorgeous region.

Start your journey north and start your teaching career with purpose.  

The post Teach in Northern B.C: Learn More About Financial Awards for Educators appeared first on Make A Future.

'Being able to take my students to play in the forest, go fishing at the river, or even explore our great outdoors by hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and more had a big impact on what drew me to work in Elkford.' – Taylor Wurmlinger  

University of Lethbridge graduate Taylor Wurmlinger was born and raised in Elkford, BC, in the Southeast Kootenays. The region boasts mountain ranges, pristine glacial lakes and lush forests, and is considered one of the sunniest regions in BC. 

The area is also home to Southeast Kootenay School District #5, which, along with Elkford, includes the major centres of Cranbrook, Fernie and Sparwood. The district includes 19 schools – 10 elementary, four secondary and two alternative schools – housing almost 6,000 students and 700 employees. 

Rocky Mountain Elementary School Grade 2 teacher Wurmlinger is one of those passionate educators who loves using the rich natural setting of Southeast Kootenay to help engage her students. 

Where were you born and raised? 

I was born in Lethbridge, Alberta, and raised in Elkford. My parents still live in my childhood home. 

Where did you attend post-secondary?  

I went to the University of Lethbridge after graduating high school in June 2015. I took a combined Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Education degree. I received a degree in both Kinesiology and Education. I graduated in 2020. 

Why did you take a teaching role in your district? What drew you to work there?  

I took a role in School District #5 because I always dreamed of moving back home to Elkford. I loved growing up in Elkford, and my parents still live here. Many of my childhood friends also loved Elkford, so following their post-secondary schooling, they also moved back. My sister decided to move back alongside me in 2020. 

When I was in my final university course, I was offered a job at Rocky Mountain Elementary School in Elkford and an elementary school in Lethbridge. The decision was easy for me – Elkford! Coming back and teaching at the elementary school I attended was a dream come true. Being able to be back in the beautiful community of Elkford, alongside my family and friends, made it even better.  

I enjoy working in Elkford because the community is so small and close-knit. I have been able to teach many siblings and even children of parents whom my mom taught when they were in school. I love being able to know all the kids in the school, regardless of what class or grade they are in.  

Being able to take my students to play in the forest, go fishing at the river, or even explore our great outdoors by hiking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and more had a big impact on what drew me to work in Elkford. 

Did you always plan to start your career in that community? 

I never planned on starting my career in Elkford; however, I always wanted and dreamed of returning here. When I was offered the job, it was proof it was meant to be. I am so grateful that I got to start my career, and I plan to work my entire career here in Elkford. 

What do you love about working in the district? 

I enjoy the teacher autonomy we are given. I enjoy that our school holds a high priority in collaboration as well. I like that even though we are 30 minutes from the next closest town, I know many of the great teachers in the other communities that are a part of the school district.  

What are the challenges as a teacher (if any)? 

I find one of the challenges of being a teacher is the lack of understanding of what our job entails. At times, some community members who do not have anyone they know in the education field struggle to understand the vast amount of work we do and the time we put into this profession.  

What's the thing you love the most about teaching in general?  

'I love the interactions with my students. I love being able to see them make mistakes and realize what they need to do to fix them. I love being silly and laughing with my students and colleagues. I also love seeing my past students in the hallways, during sports and eating lunch with them.'

Is there anything specific that you like about teaching the BC curriculum? 

I like how the BC curriculum is set up. I think it is incredibly easy to follow and understand and is quite open, allowing each teacher to decide how they want to teach the concepts to their class. Every class is different, so allowing this teacher autonomy is wonderful to ensure we meet the needs of our specific class and students.  

Do you have a story or an example showing what makes teaching in BC unique? 

My students got to learn about bats and then help make a bat house that we then attached to our school to try to help bats from becoming endangered.  

I love teaching in BC because of all the wildlife and wilderness around us. Being able to teach students survival techniques is amazing. We have spent days hiking or snowshoeing throughout our beautiful wilderness in the winter, followed by making our fires to roast marshmallows. 

I absolutely adore working and living in Elkford, BC. Our school staff and students are wonderful, and I could not imagine starting my career elsewhere. 

The post Life in Southeast Kootenay: Teaching among mountain ranges, pristine lakes, old-growth forests appeared first on Make A Future.

'It's great working in a small school in a small community. You get to know every single student, and you have a lot of agency in how you develop your curriculum.'  – Nisga'a teacher Nick Teramura 

Toronto-raised UBC grad Nick Teramura teaches in Nisga'a in the gorgeous Nass Valley. Nick shares his experience as a first-year teacher in an area home to the Nisga'a Nation. Learn what drew Nick to this small community full of big adventures.  

Where were you born and raised?

I was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. 

Where did you attend post-secondary?

I went to the University of Guelph for first and second year before transferring and finishing my BA at the University of Toronto. I got my BEd from UBC.  

Did you always plan to start your career in a remote or small community? 

Not necessarily. My partner and I wanted to move somewhere for the first few years after graduating from the BEd program. New Zealand, Australia, England, and the Territories were also on the short-list. 

What do you love about working in a small community? 

It's great working in a small school in a small community. You get to know every single student, and you have a lot of agency in how you develop your curriculum. As the only secondary social studies teacher in the school, I can take classes in any direction I want without having to navigate the internal department bureaucracy of bigger schools.  

What are the challenges (if any)? 

The downside to working in such a small school is the limited access to peers. As the only social studies teacher, I don't have any colleagues to collaborate with.  

What's the thing you love the most about teaching in general?  

For me, the best part about teaching is the opportunity to be a positive influence in a young person's life. For many students, school can be a very negative experience. But as a teacher, you have the chance to make students' days every day and inspire them to get more out of their education.  

Is there anything specific that you like about teaching the BC curriculum? 

The BC social studies curriculum is very content-agnostic, which allows me to craft units/courses that specifically resonate with my students without losing sight of the curricular competencies.   

Do you have a story or an example that shows what makes it unique to teach in a small community? 

I know every high school student at the school. I can tell when any of them are having a bad day or are otherwise acting differently. And I am not unique among the teachers here. There's a wonderful feeling knowing that so many well-intentioned and supportive adults are so well-connected to the students at the school.  

Is there anything else you want to say about teaching in the North or the RRED program that I haven't asked?  

I think all teachers strive to have the greatest possible positive impact on their students' lives. However, if you work in an urban district with plenty of teachers, your impact is only ever going to be about as big as the average teacher (maybe a bit higher if you're a great teacher).  

But if you work in the North, where there is an acute teacher shortage, your impact is going to be infinitely greater than the empty seat that would be in your classroom if you weren't there. In my BEd, I learned a lot about the different 'hows' and 'whys' of teaching.  

How is one form of assessment better than another? Why does expectation-setting improve classroom management? But we never talked about the 'where.' Ironically, it's the 'where' that has the biggest influence on a given teacher's ability to make a future. More teachers should consider their marginal impact and the difference it makes in students' lives. 

Ready to make an impact in Northern BC?

For more information about teaching opportunities in BC's north, email teachupnorth@makeafuture.ca.

Find your calling at Nisga'a School District #92

The post Teaching in BC's North: Small Communities, Big Impact! appeared first on Make A Future.

Do you enjoy winter camping, alpine skiing, kayaking, fly fishing, or hiking in BC's provincial parks? Do you crave a more laid-back lifestyle in a quieter community? Do you want to live in a place where you know your neighbours and settle into a home that's larger than the 500 sq ft condo you're currently renting? Maybe you're looking for an opportunity to teach full-time and have your own classroom?

If so, maybe it's time to consider a move. School districts located in communities outside of the Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley regions are hiring, and they need full-time teachers to start in immediately. There are over 100 teaching opportunities currently available in BC's rural and remote communities and smaller cities located outside of the province's major urban areas. Some of these opportunities are full-time continuing and permanent positions in communities as remote and rural as Fraser Lake and as large as Prince George.

In addition to having the opportunity to teach full-time, teachers employed in rural and remote schools are eligible for an annual recruitment and retention allowance of approximately $2,947. Moreover, some school districts are also offering additional financial incentives such as moving and travel allowances and subsidized housing to attract new teachers.

If you're ready for a change and to take on a full-time teaching role in a school district that will value your skills, explore the opportunities available below.

FIND MORE OF THE LATEST RURAL TEACHING JOBS

The post Teaching Jobs in Rural British Columbia appeared first on Make A Future.

'It became clear that this place was special, and I would never get this experience anywhere else' – UBC Education graduate on living in the North.

Born and raised in Lake Country, BC, UBC grad Ellie McCarthy is now teaching in Nisga'a, a rural community in the gorgeous Nass Valley. Ellie shares her experience as a first-year teacher in an area home to the Nisga'a Nation. The community provides a rich cultural backdrop and is a special place, offering an experience unlike any other. 

Why did you take a teaching role in the North? What drew you there?   

I had an opportunity to volunteer in SD92 through UBC's Community Field Experience. Someone from the district spoke at an information session and invited us to visit the district and "bring an open heart."     

I immediately knew I had to find out more about the district and ended up being selected to go up for three weeks. During those three weeks, we moved from class to class and got to work one one-on-one with students. It became clear that this place was special, and I would never get this experience anywhere else.   

The community was extremely welcoming, and the teaching staff were amazing to learn from. However, it truly was the students that made it impossible not to come back after completing my teaching degree. In the three weeks, we were able to connect with them, learn from them, and I knew I had to come back. 

Did you always plan to start your career in a remote or small community?  

Definitely not. I originally planned to start my career in Kelowna but changed my mind when I came up to the Nass Valley.    

What do you love about working in a small community?  

I love the small classes and tight-knit community. I have the time to connect with each student individually, differentiate their needs, get to know them, and work closely with my coworkers.   

What are the challenges (if any) about teaching in Northern BC?  

It can be challenging at times to work in a remote community. I miss my family and my friends, but the community is very welcoming. There are always feasts and events going on with open invites, and the community encourages attendance and participation in events.   

What is the thing you love the most about teaching in general?   

I love connecting with students, getting to know them, and finding ways to help them find success.  

Is there anything specific that you like about teaching the BC curriculum?  

I love the freedom to choose the content that is most relevant to students. For example, I can use texts and examples from the community I am in and create lessons that are interesting and engaging for students.   

Do you have a story or an example that shows what makes it unique to teach in a small community?  

I could tell you a million stories of the little wins I get every day. I get to build strong, positive relationships with my students and see every success they have. I laugh and learn every day.   

Is there anything else you want to say about teaching in the North that I have yet to ask?   

It is worth it! Despite its challenges, it is a unique opportunity to make a difference in school, and I have so many opportunities for my own personal growth and learning. It is an incredible adventure and the best decision I have made.   

Learn more about the latest teaching jobs in BC and how you can make a difference in the lives of deserving students by visiting our job board. 

FIND a JOB

The post Hear First-Hand What it is Like to Teach in Northern British Columbia appeared first on Make A Future.

Students in some of B.C.'s rural and remote communities are learning this year from 50 new teachers recruited through new provincial hiring incentives.

In partnership with the BC Public School Employers' Association (BCPSEA), of which Make a Future is part of, and the British Columbia School Superintendents Association (BCSSA) northern chapter, the Province launched the teacher-recruitment incentives in spring 2023. The initiative provided $400,000 in funding to address the immediate need for teachers in the North.

"With the help of the bonus, we've successfully hired nearly a dozen teachers, reopened an elementary school and added high-school programming in our most isolated community, Telegraph Creek, but most importantly, our school communities have been reinvigorated," said Tracey MacMillan, superintendent, Stikine School District 87.

"We no longer need to send students out of the community for high school, and now they can remain in their community and thereby grow their community. Now, we will focus on retaining these energetic teachers for the long term."

Largest Boost in the North

A portion of the funding was used to provide hiring incentives of $4,000 up to $10,000 per teacher. Of the 50 new teachers, 41 are in northern B.C., seven on Vancouver Island and two in the Thompson-Okanagan.

"Teachers are valued members of our northern communities, and I am so glad to hear that more teachers have been recruited to work in classrooms in Stikine and across northern B.C. This is part of our ongoing work to build stronger schools and ensure every student has what they need to thrive," explained Nathan Cullen, MLA for Stikine.

With the success of the initial teacher-recruitment incentives, the Ministry of Education and Child Care is providing an additional $1.5 million over three years to provide more incentives to rural and remote school districts. The three-year funding is part of the StrongerBC: Future Ready Action Plan, a cross-government made-in-B.C. plan to recruit workers with in-demand skills where they are needed most, including teachers.

Ontario Teacher Moves to BC

"I was interested in teaching in the Stikine school district after talking to the staff on a Zoom call and hearing about this great school community. The bonus helped me travel across the country from Ontario to B.C. this summer. It's been a really welcoming atmosphere, and I am fully involved in the community at both the school and the fire hall where I volunteer," said Cody Hartwig, grades 6 and 7 teacher in Dease Lake school.

The Province is also working with partners, including the BCPSEA, Indigenous stakeholders, school districts, unions, post-secondary institutions and the BC Teachers' Council on a broader K-12 workforce strategy to support a sustainable, qualified and engaged workforce.

A total investment of $12.5 million and key learnings from these first two recruitment initiatives will be used to expand recruitment and retention initiatives where teachers are needed the most in B.C.

The post Fifty new teachers recruited to work in rural B.C. classrooms appeared first on Make A Future.

Discover the exciting opportunities for teachers eager to have a meaningful impact on students living in this nature-rich Northern community.

Nestled within the beautiful village of Granisle, BC, on the traditional territory of Lake Babine Nation, Babine Elementary-Secondary School stands as a beacon of educational excellence. The district is inviting two passionate educators to join their community in shaping young minds and embracing a life enriched by community, nature and growth.

A Vibrant Learning Community: More Than a School

With a small student group spanning Kindergarten through Grade 12, the classrooms are alive with curiosity, enthusiasm and boundless potential. Babine School fosters an environment where teachers become mentors, and students become lifelong learners.

Design, Skills and Technologies shelter building in the spring.

Cultivating Brilliance: Teaching in the Heart of a Supportive Community

Beyond the classroom, Granisle wraps you in its warm embrace. This village is more than a backdrop. It's a community that thrives on unity and support. Your transition will be seamless, with affordable housing options, including rental subsidies and community resources to help you integrate into your new life.

Applied Design, Skills and Technologies students at Babine Elementary-Secondary School

Nature's Playground: An Outdoor Enthusiast's Dream

Granisle is located on the shores of Babine Lake, one of the world's largest natural lakes. Fishing, snowmobiling, boating, hiking and plenty of cultural activities are activities that many members of the small community get involved in. It's a picturesque backdrop for a life well-lived.

Learning from the Fulton River Salmon Enhancement project in the winter.

Your Opportunity Awaits: Rewards and Reimbursement

Joining the Babine teaching community means impacting young lives and enjoying a $10,000 pre-employment signing bonus and a monthly rent subsidy reimbursement. The districts believes in valuing your commitment and dedication.

Answer the Call: Apply Today

Embrace the extraordinary at Babine Elementary-Secondary School and secure a bright future for its students while embracing a life of purpose and fulfillment. Apply now and take the first step toward an exceptional journey and create brilliance in the hearts and minds of our students.

Take the first step towards a rewarding teaching journey in Northern BC.

Explore Northern BC Job Opportunities

All photos  were taken and provided by Deborah Koehn, former Principal of Babine Elementary-Secondary School. Thank you, Deborah!

The post Teaching in Northern BC: $10,000 Signing Bonus + Rent Subsidy at Babine Elementary-Secondary School appeared first on Make A Future.

Are you a passionate educator seeking new horizons to inspire young minds?

Northern British Columbia is a region renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, great adventures, and endless discovery. It is a region where passionate educators can embark on a journey to be immersed in strong, diverse and inclusive communities within vibrant school communities. Among the numerous schools in the region, Alvin A. McKay Elementary School (AAMES) stands as an example of what makes teaching and living in the north a unique experience that can only be described by experiencing it yourself.

A Welcoming Environment for Learning:

Alvin A. McKay Elementary is surrounded by breathtaking landscapes where students are able to thrive in a nurturing and inclusive environment that fosters their academic, social, and emotional growth. The school's holistic approach to education is reflected in its comprehensive range of programs and activities designed to engage students in a well-rounded learning experience.

Activities and Field Trips:

At AAMES, creativity is nurtured through vibrant art activities, including the captivating art of felting. Students eagerly participate in these activities, expressing themselves and honing their artistic skills.

"I really appreciate the art activities, especially learning how to do felting." from a AAMES student

Field trips at AAMES are just one example of how schools across Northern British Columbia embrace the value of hands-on learning. By organizing immersive excursions, these schools empower their students with real-world experiences that go beyond the classroom, enriching their perspectives, broadening their horizons, and fostering a deeper understanding of the world.

"We get to go on lots of great field trips." from a AAMES student

Northern BC school districts place a strong emphasis on sustainability and environmental education. At AAMES, this commitment is epitomized through the school's greenhouse project. By providing students with hands-on learning opportunities to cultivate plants, the project not only promotes sustainability but also nurtures a deep understanding of environmental responsibility. Through such initiatives, schools in the region actively engage students in the exploration of sustainable practices and empower them to become passionate advocates for a greener future.

Through a combination of activities and field trips, Alvin A. McKay Elementary School creates an engaging educational environment where students can explore their creativity, expand their knowledge, and develop a holistic understanding of the world around them.

Supportive Programs:

AAMES places a strong emphasis on student well-being. The school's breakfast and snack program ensures that every student starts their day with a nourishing meal, setting the stage for optimal learning. Access to healthy snacks throughout the day further supports their energy levels, fostering a well-being and focused learning environment.

"I appreciate the breakfast and snack program at AAMES because everyone gets to eat breakfast and enjoy snacks when they need them." from a AAMES student

Enriching After-School Activities:

After-School Activities go above and beyond regular school hours. Students enthusiastically participate in a variety of activities, with after-school PE being a particular favourite. These programs provide students with opportunities to develop new skills, pursue their interests, and maintain a healthy lifestyle through physical activities.

"At AAMES we have great after school programs. I especially like after school PE!" from a AAMES student

Celebrating Indigenous Culture:

Rooted in the Nisga'a Nation, Alvin A. McKay Elementary School celebrates Indigenous culture with pride. The school offers Nisga'a language classes, where students eagerly learn about their language and cultural traditions. By connecting with their roots, students deepen their understanding of their cultural identity and develop a sense of belonging.

"My favourite thing about AAMES is Nisga'a language class because it is fun learning new things about our language." from a AAMES student

Join the AAMES Community:

If you're an enthusiastic educator inspired to make a lasting impact on young minds and open to being immersed in Nisga'a Nation school culture, AAMES extends an invitation to you to join their dedicated team. Additionally, we encourage you to regularly explore the diverse range of opportunities available in other school districts across Northern BC. Embrace the chance to be a part of the thriving educational community in Northern BC and forge your own path.

Don't miss the chance to become part of a school where students love coming to learn every day. For more information on teaching positions available in Nisga'a School District #92, visit the link here.

Take the first step towards a rewarding teaching journey in Northern BC.

Explore Northern BC Job Opportunities

We thank Jessica McKay, the Vice-Principal, and Jessa Chupik, the Talent Acquisition Specialist from Northern Recruitment at Make A Future, for their valuable contributions. Their photos beautifully showcase the school's cultural aspects, enriching the article for readers. We appreciate their dedication and talent.

The post Shaping Young Minds in Northern BC's Alvin A. McKay Elementary School – A Vibrant Community in the Laxgalts'ap, Nisga'a Nation appeared first on Make A Future.

Live in an amazing community and teach for a supportive public school district in Coast Mountains

Whether you're just starting your teaching journey or looking to put down roots and buy your own home, Coast Mountains School District has what you're looking for.

"Here in Northern BC, it was just amazing to me that right away in my fifth year of teaching, I was able to jump into my dream job. It's exactly the lifestyle we're looking for–the mountains are amazing; the view is gorgeous," says Jaquelynne Amendt, Secondary Teacher.

If you're a teacher in the early stages of your career looking for an opportunity with a dynamic and innovative school district in an affordable community, look no further than Coast Mountains. As a new teacher in the district, you'll find a supportive administrative team that is supportive of diverse learning strategies and approaches.

"Coast Mountains school district is an organization that works collaboratively, cooperatively with its employees and allows people the autonomy to think outside the box at all times, keeping students and their learning as the most important aspect of decision making" said Janet Meyer, former Superintendent of Schools.

Discover a natural lifestyle and more affordable housing options in Coast Mountains

If you're an outdoors person who enjoys hiking, fishing, hunting throughout the year and skiing and snowshoeing in the winter, you can enjoy all of those activities in Coast Mountains.

Across our district, you can purchase a two-bedroom home or condo for less than BC's larger urban centres.

Enjoy teacher autonomy, a supportive administration, affordable housing, and financial incentives

At Coast Mountains School District, you'll find a supportive administrative team and monetary and educational support to help you make your ideas become a reality.

For all teachers moving to our district, we offer a moving bonus of up to $2,500. Beyond that, we also give an annual retention allowance of $2,673.00, which could cover the cost of one or two months' rent.

In Hazelton, Kitwanga and Stewart—the smaller communities in our district—we also provide a small-community living allowance, which ranges from $1,069 to $4,006 per year. This is on top of the annual retention allowance mentioned above, meaning that, as a new teacher, you could earn upwards of $6000.00 more per year than your colleagues down south.

The district is also considering providing a rent subsidy for the 2022-2023 school year for the new hires only. Please get in touch with HR for further details.

The district also offers district-owned housing at a subsidized rent in the community of Hazelton, Kitwanga and Stewart. These units are provided on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Couple these bonuses with the reduced cost of living/housing, and you can easily see how Coast Mountain School District provides its teachers with a fantastic quality of life.

Now that you've got your bases covered, it's time to think about how you're going to spend your free time in our district. See Looking for Adventure in SD 82.

Want to learn more about opportunities at Coast Mountains?

For more information about living and teaching at Coast Mountains, please contact Kiran Bath, Director of HR (Kiran.Bath@cmsd.bc.ca) or Jennifer Connor, HR Officer, Teachers & Exempt Staff (Jennifer.Connor@cmsd.bc.ca).

Find your dream job and launch your career at Coast Mountains

The post Discover Full-time Teaching Jobs and Secure, Affordable Housing in Coast Mountains appeared first on Make A Future.

When Jason Schwartz decided he was ready to come back to Canada to live and work, he attracted interest from employers across the country. He chose to start his newest adventure in School District No. 57.

Schwartz moved from Guangzhou, a city of 16 million people in southern China, to Prince George, British Columbia, population 75,000. As part of the move, he accepted the post of vice-principal at tiny Giscome Elementary, a rural school 45 kilometres to the east and north of Prince George. Giscome has a grand total of 28 students, 13 in Kindergarten to Grade 3 and 15 in Grades 4-7.

For Schwartz, who had been a vice principal and English teacher at Guangzhou's Huamei-Bond International School – with nearly 5,000 students spread across its campus – the change in scenery and lifestyle was radical. Four months into his new job, he couldn't be happier.

"Coming out here every day, it's like a little piece of heaven," Schwartz said. "Really, it is."

Schwartz helps cover administrative duties at Giscome because principal Sarah Petrisor also oversees Blackburn Elementary School, 32 kilometres away. As part of Schwartz's regular duties, he also teaches Language Arts, Math, P.E. and French in the Grade 4-7 class.

When Schwartz was going through his decision-making process, School District No. 57 rose to the top of his job prospect list because of the persistence of Cynthia Mangan, the district's recruitment and retention officer. In January 2019, during a three-week break for Chinese New Year, Schwartz visited Prince George for the first time. The city was being blanketed by a major snowstorm but, as an Ontario boy who did an undergraduate degree at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, the wintry blast only increased his enthusiasm.

"It was snowing the whole time I was here," Schwartz said. "And Cynthia joked with me. She said, 'Well, if it didn't scare you off, then I guess it's meant to be.' And I said, 'Yeah, I think this is meant to be.' Because it really reminds me of my years in Thunder Bay. And those years, I absolutely love to reminisce about because I was so active outdoors – hiking, and I loved to get out and do cross-country skiing and snowshoeing and canoeing, just that whole idea of connecting with nature. With this opportunity to come to Prince George, (the location) has all of that, plus more, it seems. It's the best of everything that I've had, so this is a real highlight."

Schwartz went through the application process and accepted a job offer from SD 57 but didn't find out until late July 2019 he would be assigned to Giscome Elementary. He and assistant superintendent Cindy Heitman went over the options and Heitman suggested Giscome would be a great fit.

"I thought, 'Fantastic!' Schwartz said. "But I did not know where Giscome, British Columbia, was at that point. I had to pull out a map and find out where it was. I thought, 'Wow, it's in a rural setting,' and did a little bit more research online, and the geography of the area looked fantastic, with a lot of wildlife. In fact, I now experience wildlife three or four times a week driving back and forth. It's either moose or deer or bear or coyote – you're always coming across something. It's so fantastic – this little place is a gem in the wilderness."

Schwartz is a guy who has always been willing to stray from the beaten path. After he received his teaching credentials, jobs were tough to find in Ontario so he seized an opportunity to go to Hall Beach, Nunavut. He worked at Arnqjuaq School on a two-year contract. After that experience, Schwartz's career took him to Woodstook, Ontario, and then Guangzhou, China.

Regardless of where he has gone, Schwartz has found common denominators – even between the hustle and bustle of Guangzhou and the peaceful country setting of Giscome.

"Coming from an environment which was so fast-paced and so advanced in terms of infrastructure and technology and transportation, and then coming to an area like this, I've had these varied experiences but then I can share these experiences and relate them in such a way that it helps the students understand that there are lots of opportunities out in the world so long as you stay in school and you work hard.

"Ultimately I'm hoping that with me being here and the varied background and the stories that I share and the connections that I make, it makes some sort of a difference. It's like planting seeds in the hopes that it will encourage (students) to seek higher levels of education or a skilled trade or whatever is of interest for them and it's going to open up all sorts of doors for them."

School District No. 57 (Prince George) is beaming with opportunity. If you're looking for a unique experience and to grow your career in education, check out School District No. 57.

The post Meet the Ontario teacher who moved from a city of 16 million to a British Columbia town of 75,000 to pursue his dreams appeared first on Make A Future.