SPS Native Ed Team Visits Suquamish for Ocean To Table

This month, the Native Education team was invited to join the Suquamish Tribe and Chief Kitsap Academy to take part in their Ocean to Table program, which teaches students the science and technology of Suquamish tribal fishing practices that have been practiced since time immemorial.

It was a beautiful day on the water, where CKA students, along with their science teachers, learned from Suquamish elders the delicate art of catching Salmon through gill netting in the traditional waters of the tribe and then processing and finally canning the finished product.

We raise our hands to our generous hosts for inviting us this year- The Suquamish Tribe, Superintendent- Brenda Guerrero, Tribal Councilmember- Jay Mills, Tribal Member- Shaylene, CKA Principal- Lucy DeFoe, and Suquamish Elder- Barbara Lawrence. We look forward to deepening our relationship and continued collaboration with Chief Kitsap Academy and the Suquamish Tribe in the future!

Go to our SPS District News page for more information about Ocean to Table.

9 Native Education Students Representing SPS at NAYLA

The Native American Education Program at SPS is thrilled to announce that nine exceptional students from SPS will be representing our community at the Native American Youth Leadership Academy (NAYLA) this year. These future leaders come from Denny MS, Roosevelt HS, Rainier Beach HS, Garfield HS, and Ingraham HS—and we couldn’t be more proud.

NAYLA is a year-long program in collaboration with the Puyallup Tribe that empowers students by building essential leadership skills, nurturing cultural pride, and fostering strong community connections. Students participate in bi-monthly meetings and an overnight camp in March 2026.

We raise our hands to our future leaders of tomorrow who are ready to make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.

More information about NAYLA and the Western Washington Native American Education Consortium.

SPS Native American Education Represented at NIEA Conference

Shana Brown, Yakima, Puyallup, Muckleshoot– SPS Native Education Curriculum Specialist and Danielle Vaillancourt, Citizen Potawatomi– SPS JMLSTI Content Demonstration Teacher, represented Seattle Public Schools when they presented at this year’s National Indian Education Association conference in Spokane, Washington.

The presentation, Strategies for Integrating JMLSTI, Science and Social-Emotional Learning in Urban Classrooms, provided practical tools and highlighted the importance of incorporating the John McCoy (lulilaš) Since Time Immemorial curriculum with science education and SEL.

t̕igʷicid- Thank you!

The SPS Native American Education Program would like to raise our hands in gratitude for our families and community partners that made the Moving Up Ceremony such a success last week.

As we wrap up this school year, we’d like to extend our thanks to the wonderful SPS Native families for your patience and perseverance as we navigated this challenging and uncertain year. Under the leadership of our new manager, Dr. Georgina Badoni (Diné), we look forward to offering increased cultural programming, events, and family and student support in 2025-2026.

We’d like to recognize those that made this year’s Moving Up Ceremony possible.

t̕igʷicid to:

• Our Native families for sharing their time and community spirit
• Joel Keeline, Sajali Keeline, Aiden Galindo, Levi Harter for your gift of drumming and song
• Denise Bill and Justine Koble from Muckleshoot Tribal College for your presence and gifts for our students
• Trina Nonis for the gift of the Huchoosedah paddles, coffee, decorations, and raffle items and your tireless efforts in always going above and beyond to support Native Education
• Kathleen and Gloria from the Seattle Public Library for the free indigenous books and constant dedication to tabling our events
• Olivia Ford from Liiv For Flavor for feeding us with your delicious food
• Hummingbird Indigenous Family Services for the aquarium and zoo tickets
• Tonia Galindo for the beautifully crafted baskets and necklaces and your beading expertise
• South East Seattle Education Coalition for the blankets, gifts, and generous support this year
• Renee Gittens, Studio Head at Stumbling Cat, for two sets of games and swag for their game Potions: A Curious Tale
• Tess Gamez for the dream catcher and the delicious tea
• The Paddle Necklace Work Group for creating 100 unique and gorgeous paddle necklaces that were given out at the ceremony
• Robert Eagle Staff Middle School for hosting our event in your inspiring building
  
  

April’s Family Culture Night was a Success!

We had a fantastic time creating gourd rattles at last month’s Family Culture Night at Meany. The students got creative and designed AMAZING rattles.

A big thank you to Karen Flores who led the night’s activity and was in charge of the hot glue gun to put them all together.  

Red Dress Day- May 5th, 2025

In honor of the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, Girls, and Two-Spirted People (MMIWG2S+), May 5th is recognized as Red Dress Day.  

A national movement that began in 2010, honors and raises awareness of the disproportionate number of indigenous women, girls, and two-spirited people that go missing or face murder and violence in their daily lives.

To show solidarity for MMIWG2S+, you can:

• Wear the color red
• Hang a red dress outside your home
• Read Reclaiming Power: The Final Report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls
• Purchase a red dress recognition pin, earrings/jewelry, or clothing from a Native/Indigenous artist or business
• Advocate for action from local and national leaders

For more information on MMIWG2S+, see the National Indigenous Women’s Resource Center

To get involved locally, or to receive support, please see the Washington State Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People Task Force

Billy Frank Jr. Maquette to be Displayed at JSCEE

The Seattle Public Schools district office, John Stanford Center for Educational Excellence, is honored to host the Billy Frank Jr. maquette.

The maquette, which is a smaller replica of the official statue that will be displayed in Statuary Hall in Washington D.C. in 2026, will be available for viewing in the lobby the first week in June.

Billy Frank Jr. (Nisqually) was a powerful voice in the “Fishing Wars” of the 1960’s and 1970’s and was instrumental in reclaiming tribal fishing rights in Washington State that led to the Boldt Decision.

Learn more about Billy Frank Jr and his impact on Native fishing rights in Washington State that lead to the Boldt Decision.

More information on the Billy Frank Jr. statue project.

Join Us for April’s Culture Night!

Thursday, April 24th from 5-7pm at Meany Middle School. We will be serving dinner and dessert, but please feel free to bring a dish to share.

The craft activity will be led by Karen Flores (Huichol Hopi). We will finally be constructing and designing gourd rattles! Unfortunately, we were unable to make rattles at March’s Culture Night due to supply issues and made felt medicine bags instead.

“My Alaskan Summer” Presentation at Bailey Gatzert & Rainier View Elementary

This week, our amazing Consulting Teacher, Victoria Hildebrand, gave a presentation to the 2nd grade students at Bailey Gatzert and Rainier View Elementary.

The presentation titled, “My Alaskan Summer”, shared Ms. Hildebrand’s experiences as an Alaskan Native and how she and her community in Nulato, Alaska spend their summer. “My Alaskan Summer” is part of the “People of the Arctic” series that supports the 2nd grade curriculum unit on the Arctic.

The students LOVED the presentation by Ms. H and drew pictures and added a short description about what they liked most. Thank you Ms. H for your dedication to our students and sharing your cultural knowledge with the next generation!

The American Indian Resource Library Celebrates Earth Day & National Poetry Month

Did you know that your student can request to check out books from our American Indian Resource Library? Explore interesting titles in celebration of Earth Day and National Poetry Month through Destiny Discover and ask your student’s teacher to put in the request. The books will be sent directly to your student’s classroom.

Or come to our monthly Family Culture Night at Meany Middle School and our librarian, Katie Fries, will be happy to help you check out books that can be taken home that night!

Billy Frank Jr. Day Celebrated at the District Office

In celebration of the life and work of Billy Frank Jr, Shana Brown, Native Education Curriculum Specialist, in collaboration with the SPS Wellness Department, offered the district staff a “Lunch and Learn” presentation on March 11th. Shana’s presentation explored Billy Frank Jr’s fight for Native fishing rights in Washington State leading to the Boldt Decision. The Billy Frank Jr statue project was also discussed. The event was well attended, and the Indian tacos from Off the Rez Cafe, were delicious!

The maquette of the official statue that will be displayed in Statuary Hall in Washington D.C. will be displayed at Shoreline Community College on April 12th, 2025.

Thank you, Shana, and the SPS Wellness Department for your steadfast support of the Native American Education Department at Seattle Public Schools!

Nathan Hale Native Club Welcomes Japanese Sister School

On February 28th, Nathan Hale High School celebrated their 50th Anniversary Celebration and welcomed students from their sister school in Naha, Okinawa, Japan with an assembly attended by Mayor Brue Harrell, SPS Superintendent, Dr. Brent Jones, and the Japanese Consul General Makoto Iyori.

The Nathan Hale Native Club provided a moving welcome song with traditional Native drumming lead by Mr. Harter. We are so proud of our students in the Native Club that worked so hard preparing for this event.

The Nathan Hale Native Club meets on Wednesday’s during lunch in room 2104. For more information, contact Levi Harter lpharter@seattleschools.org

Family Culture Night- Thursday, March 13th 5-7pm

Join us for Family Culture Night at Meany Middle School! Dinner will be provided, but please feel free to bring a dish to share.

This month’s Native craft activity will be to construct and design a gourd rattle with Karen Flores. If you have any questions, please email Kym Hogan kmhogan@seattleschools.org

Hope to see you there!

Billy Frank Jr. Day- March 7th, 2025

Billy Frank Jr., a Northwest Native American (Nisqually) activist, played a key role in the “Fish Wars” of the 1960’s and 1970’s, resulting in a landmark decision affirming tribal fishing rights. SPS celebrates Billy Frank Jr. Day on March 7th, but the official Billy Frank Jr. Day is on his birthday, March 9.

Learn more about this influential leader in our Billy Frank Jr. collection of resources:  Billy Frank Jr. Online Collection

To learn more about the Billy Frank Jr statue that will be installed in Statuary Hall at the US Capitol building in Washington D.C.: Billy Frank Jr. Statue Project

March is Women’s History Month

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the American Indian Resource Library at SPS is showcasing literature that support the many accomplishments and impacts that Native American women have had on our society. Check out their website to explore the resources available for teachers and students.

American Indian Resource Library

NEW Online 506 Form- Title VI Enrollment

The SPS Native Education Department is pleased to have fulfilled one of our biggest goals for 2025- digitizing our 506 Indian Student Eligibility Certification form for enrollment in Title VI services.

Previously, the 506 form was a paper document that could only be filled out pen to paper and submitted in person to your child’s school. With the creation of our new online form, we have streamlined this documentation so you can easily and confidentially submit your completed 506 form securely to the Native Education Department from a laptop, iPad, or cellular phone.

If you currently have a paper form on file with us, you do not need to fill out the new digital form. For questions on whether you have a current 506 form on file with the Native Education Department, please email: spsnativeed506@seattleschools.org

For more information on Title VI, see our 506 Title VI page.

Family Culture Night- February 11th 5-7pm Meany Middle School

Join us for our next Family Culture Night at Meany Middle School on Tuesday, February 11th from 5-7pm. Our new Culture Night teacher, Karen Flores, (Huichol Hopi), will be leading the cultural programming activity for both kids and parents. Dinner and dessert will be provided, but please feel free to bring a dish to share. Hope to see you there!

February SPS Calendar

• Month of February- Black History Month
• Mid-Winter Break- February 17th-21st *Including Presidents’ Day

Native American Education Represented at SPS Enrollment Fair

On February 1st, Seattle Public Schools held their Enrollment Fair for new families who are exploring the Seattle School District. The Native American Education Department was excited to be on hand to share information to prospective students and families about the important role of Native Education in the SPS community.

Winter Coat Give Away

If you haven’t received winter coats yet and would still like to participate in our give away, please email Kym Hogan kmhogan@seattleschools.org.

Please make sure to include:

• Whether you prefer a male or female style or no preference
• Your child’s/children’s names
• The sizes you require (specify adult and/or children’s sizes)

January SPS Calendar

• Monday, Jan. 6: First day back to school
• Monday, Jan. 20: NO SCHOOL Martin Luther King Jr. Day
• Tuesday, Jan. 28:
  • Family Culture Night – Meany Middle School 5-7 p.m.
  • Last day of Semester 1
• Wednesday, Jan. 29: First day of Semester 2

Many Thanks to our Supporters and Families that made our Family Culture Night Holiday Celebration a Success!

• Trina Nonis for her support with planning and for providing the coffee
• Chandra Hampson & family for generously donating raffle items, creating beautiful centerpieces, providing the coloring station, and helping with setup
• Tess Gamez for donating the traditional tea
• Nic Berry for playing Santa
• Chef Liv for providing the amazing food
• Kathleen Magellan from Seattle Public Library for handing out free books, tote bags, and other library goodies
• Toys for Tots and the Seattle Community at large for their generosity in donating toys for our event

Family Culture Night Holiday Celebration

Please join us Tuesday, December 17 from 5-7 p.m. for our annual Family Culture Night Holiday Party at Meany Middle School, where we will come together in community to celebrate the holiday season!

• Delicious food by Chef Olivia from Liiv For Flavor
• Free books and goodies for the kids from The Seattle Public Library
• A gift give away sponsored by Toys for Tots
• Craft making activities
• Holiday selfie booth with Santa

We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating in the holiday season!

Is your student or family in need of support?

We have an amazing student and family support team available to help!

Victoria Hildebrand, Consulting Teacher
vlhildebrand@seattleschools.org

Kurstyn Allen, Social Worker
kjallen@seattleschools.org

Helpful Online Resources:

• Emerald City Resource Guide online
  Comprehensive list of local resources. Service providers range from clothing, food, and financial assistance to employment services.
• Teen Link
  Teen Link is a program for Washington teens in crisis. Their online site offers information on the services they provide and a teen help line.
• Youth Care
  Local organization with a mission to end youth homelessness offering food, medical, housing, & mental health services for youths ages 12-24.

December SPS Calendar

• Tuesday, Dec. 17 – Family Culture Night Holiday Party 5-7 p.m.
• Friday, Dec. 20 – 1-hour early dismissal
• Monday, Dec. 23 – Friday Jan. 3rd: NO SCHOOL Christmas Break

Turkey, Coat, and Hygiene Kit Deliveries Completed!

The Native Education district office staff were busy before the Thanksgiving holiday purchasing, packing up, and delivering turkeys, winter coats, and hygiene kits to our Native families in the community.

If you were put on the waiting list for a coat, we will be contacting you as soon as we are able to get more.

Native American Heritage Month Celebrated at JSCEE

On Friday, November 22, our Native Education team lead an informative lunchtime celebration in honor of Native American Heritage month. Shana Brown, our talented and dedicated Curriculum Specialist, created learning opportunities for the district office staff centered around indigenous land-based values. Culinary Services also provided delicious Indian tacos!

Some of the activities included a sorting game to identify quotes that reflect Settler/Colonial Land Based Values versus Indigenous Land Based Values. Another activity, facilitated by our wonderful Native American Education Resource librarian, Katie, highlighted how educators can identify whether popular literature poses a stereotype threat through the use of biased language and Indian stereotypes.

Thank you Shana for your hard work and passion in creating this fun and engaging celebration and everyone who contributed to making it a success!!

November is Native American Heritage Month!

Native American Heritage Month celebrates the rich cultures, traditions, and histories of Native Americans. This month fosters awareness of Native American issues, promotes respect for diverse Native cultures, and encourages inclusivity and understanding within our communities.

For Native students, this is a great time to celebrate and reconnect with your tribal community by attending cultural events and activities and sharing your traditions with your classmates.

Native American Heritage Month Resources

Is Your Student Enrolled in Seattle Public Schools’ Title VI Native Education Program?

Title VI is a federal program that ensures schools provide a quality education for Native students as required by Tribal treaties. Funding for our program helps all Native students receive academic support and cultural programming.

Title VI FAQs

• WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
  All students who have tribal membership in a federally recognized tribe or a parent or grandparent with tribal membership.
• HOW CAN A STUDENT ENROLL IN TITLE VI?
  Enrollment into the program is completed by filling out an ED 506 form which documents tribal status. Even if you do not anticipate taking advantage of Title VI services, filling out a form will increase the grant funds available to all Native students& families who are in need of support
• HOW LONG DOES ENROLLMENT LAST?
  For as long as a student remains in the SPS school district, they will be enrolled in our program &Title VI without needing to fill out a newform each year. If you are unsure if your student has a 506 form on file, contact our team!
• NEED HELP ENROLLING? WANT TO KNOW IF YOUR STUDENT ALREADY HAS A 506 FORM ON FILE?
  Contact our team! spsnativeed506@seattleschools.org

November SPS Calendar

• Wednesday, Nov. 6 – End of Quarter 1
• Monday, Nov. 11 – NO SCHOOL Veterans Day
• Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday Nov. 25-27 – Parent-Teacher Conferences Elementary & K-8
• Thursday, Nov. 28 – NO SCHOOL Thanksgiving
• Friday, Nov. 29 – NO SCHOOL Native American Heritage Day

Our Netse Mot: One People Gathering Field Trip was a SUCESS!

A BIG thank you to Children of the Setting Sun Productions for performing a special matinee for our SPS students on October 22 at the Paramount Theatre. We had close to 2000 students attend this special event. Look for more collaboration between Children of the Setting Sun Productions and SPS in the future!

Native Education Represented at Sanislo Elementary’s Resource and STEM Fair

The Native Education Department was invited to host an informational table at Sanislo Elementary’s Resource and STEM Fair on November 7th. We chatted with SPS families, passed out Orange Shirt Day stickers and Coast Salish coloring sheets to the kids, and provided information about Title VI and Native Education.

It was a great night, and we hope to continue to collaborate with other schools in the district to get the word out about Native Education!