Native American Education Program

Since Time Immemorial (STI) is a state-mandated tribal history and culture curriculum that all schools in Washington must implement. Endorsed by all 29 federally recognized tribes in the state, the curriculum ensures that students receive an accurate, comprehensive, and culturally responsive education about Native American histories, cultures, and contributions.

Unlike traditional curricula that often marginalize or misrepresent Indigenous perspectives, STI provides a framework that integrates tribal knowledge, primary sources, and contemporary Indigenous voices into classroom learning. It is designed to meet state learning standards while respecting tribal sovereignty and self-determination.

The STI Curriculum teaches students that Native American tribes are sovereign nations, each with its own government, laws, and distinct cultural traditions. By exploring the legal and historical relationships between tribal nations and the U.S. government, students gain a deeper understanding of treaties, self-governance, and the ongoing efforts of Native communities to protect their rights and lands.

Historically, textbooks have minimized, distorted, or omitted Indigenous perspectives. The STI Curriculum corrects these gaps by providing materials developed in collaboration with tribal communities. This ensures that students learn about significant topics such as:

• Pre-colonial Indigenous societies and their contributions
• Tribal treaties and the rights they guarantee
• The impact of federal policies like the Indian Removal Act and Boarding Schools
• Modern-day Native resilience and activism

By engaging with authentic primary sources and tribal knowledge, students develop a more complete and truthful understanding of American history.

The STI Curriculum fosters cultural appreciation and respect by incorporating Indigenous perspectives into subjects such as history, language arts, social studies, and science. It highlights the enduring contributions of Native communities to areas like:

• Environmental stewardship and sustainable practices
• Art, literature, and storytelling traditions
• Scientific and technological innovations
• Leadership in social justice movements

By recognizing and valuing these contributions, students from all backgrounds build empathy, respect, and cross-cultural understanding, creating more inclusive school environments.

For Native students, seeing their histories, traditions, and contemporary lives reflected in their education can be deeply affirming. The STI Curriculum provides opportunities for:

• Cultural pride and identity-building
• Engagement with tribal elders and community leaders
• Celebrating Native languages and traditions in the classroom

When students see their heritage valued in school, they are more likely to feel engaged, motivated, and connected to their learning experience. This, in turn, can lead to higher academic achievement and stronger self-esteem.

Many teachers did not receive formal training on Indigenous history and culture during their education. The STI Curriculum provides professional development resources to help educators teach Native content accurately and respectfully. This includes:

• Lesson plans and teaching guides aligned with state standards
• Partnerships with tribal educators and community members
• Strategies for integrating Indigenous perspectives across subjects

By equipping educators with the necessary knowledge and tools, the STI Curriculum ensures that Native history and culture are not just a one-time lesson but are embedded throughout students' education.

Washington is among the states that have legally required Native education in K-12 classrooms. The STI Curriculum fulfills these mandates by providing a structured, ready-to-use framework that helps schools meet their obligations effectively and meaningfully.

The Since Time Immemorial Curriculum does more than educate students—it strengthens relationships between schools and local tribal communities, fostering collaboration and mutual respect. By integrating Native voices and experiences into education, STI contributes to:

• Breaking down stereotypes and correcting misconceptions
• Promoting equity in history education
• Cultivating a generation of informed and empathetic citizens

By investing in the STI Curriculum, we are creating a future where all students understand, appreciate, and respect the Indigenous peoples who have lived on and stewarded this land since time immemorial.

Our Native Education Program serves as a bridge between Indigenous traditions and modern opportunities, ensuring that every Native student has the chance to succeed while remaining deeply connected to their cultural identity. Through education, advocacy, and community engagement, we honor the past, celebrate the present, and empower future generations to thrive.

A 506 Form is an official document used as part of the Title VI Indian Education Program, a federally funded initiative designed to support the academic success and cultural enrichment of Native American students. By completing this form, you help ensure that the federal government fulfills its responsibility—established through Tribal treaties and agreements—to provide high-quality educational opportunities for Native students.

By signing and submitting a 506 Form, your child and other Native students in our school district gain access to additional resources, programs, and opportunities, including:

• Increased Funding for Native Education Programs: Each completed form contributes to federal funding that allows us to provide academic support, mentorship, and cultural enrichment programs.
• Tutoring & Academic Assistance: Funding from Title VI supports tutoring services, homework help, and other academic interventions tailored to the needs of Native students.
• Cultural & Language Programs: Your child can participate in cultural activities, Native language classes, storytelling sessions, and traditional arts programs that celebrate Indigenous heritage.
• College & Career Readiness Support: Title VI funding enables us to provide scholarship guidance, college prep workshops, and career exploration opportunities for Native students.

Community Events & Leadership Opportunities: From powwows and cultural festivals to leadership workshops and youth councils, this funding ensures that Native students can engage in meaningful extracurricular activities.

Your child may be eligible if they, a parent, or a grandparent are a member (or have proof of ancestry) from a federally recognized, state-recognized, or terminated Tribe. If you're unsure whether your family qualifies, we’re here to help!

Yes! Your 506 Form is completely confidential and is kept securely within the Native Education department. Your personal information will never be shared with outside parties or used for any purpose other than ensuring your child receives the educational support they deserve.

It’s quick and easy to complete! You can:

1. Download & Fill Out the Form
2. Return It to Our Office – 200 Lynch St., W., Eatonville, WA 98328

OR

3. Email It to Us – Send your completed form to t.roebuck@eatonville.wednet.edu
4. Need Help? – If you're unsure about eligibility or have any questions, give us a call at 360-641-1809 and we’ll gladly assist you.

By signing a 506 Form, you’re not just helping your child—you’re strengthening Native education in our entire community. Thank you for supporting this vital program!

The Indian Parent Advisory Committee (IPAC), Title VI, serves as an advisory body to the Eatonville School District regarding the Native Education Title VI Indian Education Grant. The IPAC plays a crucial role in the grant application process by reviewing and approving the proposed budget and any amendments to the application.

As essential stakeholders, IPAC members represent families and students who directly benefit from the Title VI grant programming. The parent committee collaborates with school district officials to ensure that funds are allocated in ways that best serve Native American students. The IPAC’s involvement in the development and approval of the annual grant is a required step for the district to receive federal funding.

Location: Eatonville Middle School
Time: 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM

• November 6, 2024 11/6/24 Notes
• January 30, 2025 1/30/25 Notes
• March 7, 2025

Meetings are open to parents, students, and community members who wish to participate in discussions regarding Native American education initiatives.

The IPAC is composed of voting members who guide decision-making regarding the use of Title VI funds. Parents who attend but are not designated as voting members are considered Members at Large (non-voting) and can still provide input during meetings.

Meeting minutes are recorded and posted on the district website for public access, ensuring transparency and community engagement.

The IPAC is responsible for:

• Providing input on the development and administration of the Native Education Title VI grant.
• Reviewing and approving grant applications, proposed budgets, and amendments.
• Advising on programs and services that support Native American students in the district.
• Ensuring compliance with federal regulations related to the Title VI grant.

The IPAC does not have authority over certain administrative aspects of the Native Education program. Specifically, the committee cannot:

• Access confidential 506 forms or individual student records.
• Set policies or procedures for the Native American Education Manager.
• Develop by-laws inconsistent with Eatonville School District policies or the Native American Education Manager’s guidance.
• Hire, fire, or supervise the Native American Education Manager or staff.
• Directly commit funds or administer projects for personal benefit.

As per the Office of Indian Education (October 7, 2019), the following expenses are not permitted within the Title VI grant budget:

• Student banquets, dinners, ceremonies, or similar social events.
• Student incentives, stipends, scholarships, or personal items.
• Parental stipends or costs.
• Basic transportation expenses for students within the school district.
• Vehicle purchases.
• Costs unrelated to an approved project objective or administrative expenses.
• City bus passes or tokens.
• Laundry tokens.
• Fees or passes for non-school-related activities (e.g., YMCA memberships).
• Gas cards.

For more information on the IPAC, meeting agendas, or to get involved, visit the contact Dracy McCoy, Executive Director of Student Services: d.mccoy@eatonville.wednet.edu