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

2025-2026 Meeting Dates:

Thursday, October 16, 2025

Thursday, January 15, 2026

Thursday, April 16, 2026 (EASIE Funding Meeting)

Thursday, June 4, 2026 (Blanket Ceremony/End of Year Celebration)

2024-2025 Meeting Dates:

• 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

Native American/Title VI Parent Committee Meeting

Date: March 11, 2025
Start Time: 6:00 pm
End Time: 6:50 pm

In Attendance: Dracy McCoy, Anthony D’Amelio, Neena Smith, Lili Smith

Review of Purpose:
To Serve & Support Our Native Students at Eatonville School District

Review of Officers:
2024-25 Officers:
President: Mandy Morlin
Tribal Representative: Brittany Smith
Secretary: Rainey Morlin, Kevin Nehls
Student Representative: Lane Smith (h/s), Kayden Dewey (middle), Iris Smith (elem)

Agenda Items:
1. Planning for the EASIE Part III application, approval, budget and bi-laws
      a. April meeting will be scheduled
2. Program Update
      a. Field trips for all schools
           i. Students have requested the following - Mt. Rainier, Fish Hatchery, Pioneer Farms, NW Trek, Point Defiance                      Zoo, Pow wow (Nisqually - April 4th-6th, Tribal Center).
      b. Native Heritage Group Topics
           i. Elementary Schools - Muckleshoot Tribe Story, The Maiden of Deception Pass (one of our student’s uncles has                written a book about the topic.
           ii. Middle School - Tribal Research, bracelet making
           iii. High School - Low attendance (bringing donuts next group)

3. Legislative Update:
      a. SB 5570—Supporting public school instruction in tribal sovereignty and federally recognized Indian tribes -                       Passed in Senate.
       b. HB 1894—Supporting public school instruction in tribal sovereignty and federally recognized Indian tribes - In                 Committee.

       c. HB 1479—Establishing a state matching grant to support American Indian and Alaska Native students - In                        Committee.
       d. HB 1393—Providing public school students with opportunities for cultural expression at commencement                          ceremonies - Passed in House.
       e. SB 5247—Transferring ownership of the Naselle Youth Camp property to the Chinook Indian Nation - In                              Committee. 

        f. HB 1540—Expanding eligibility for the students experiencing homelessness and foster youth program to an                      accredited tribal college - Passed in House.
        g. SB 5304—Expanding eligibility for the students experiencing homelessness and foster youth program to an                       accredited tribal college - In Committee – Placed on second reading by Rules Committee.

Next Meeting Date:
We will need to meet in April in order to complete the EASIE Part II Application, Approval, Budget and Bi-Laws - due 5/9/2025. Ms. McCoy will send out a meeting invite.

We encourage all parents and guardians of Eatonville School District’s Native American and Alaskan Native Students to attend. The role of the Title Vl Native Education Parent Advisory Committee is to consult with and advise the Eatonville School District on the development and operation of the Title Vl Program, assist in the development and of the Title Vl grant, and to help organize and conduct community cultural events. By serving on the IPAC parents and guardians of Native American/Alaskan Native Students in Eatonville Schools can help decide the program goals and activities.

Fall Back to School Potluck & Meeting

Date: 10/16/25

Location: Eatonville Middle School Portable 4

Meeting Called to Order:  6:05 pm

President/Chairperson: Mandy Morlin 

Tribal Representative: Brittany Smith 

Secretary: Rainey Morlin, Kevin Nehls 

Student Representative: Lane Smith/Rainey Morlin (High School), Kayden Dewey (MIddle School), Iris Smith (Elementary Schools) 

Members in Attendance:  Mandy Morlin, Kevin Nehls, Rainey Morlin, Mercy Morlin, Alex Velazquez, Dracy McCoy, Anthony D’Amelio

Agenda

1. Program Update
   1. Number of Students in the Program:  60
   2. NAYLA - 2 students attend today.  Today was an introductory meeting.  
   3. Field Trips - Tribal Center, museums
   4. Water Quality Testing - 10/28 for EMS/EHS students working with the Nisqually Tribe.  The field trip time for elementary schools is being scheduled.
   5. Project Based Learning - EMS: Settlements by the water.  Why would this occur?
   6.  
2. Group Art Project - Bead Lizard

Meeting Adjournment:  7:18 pm

 

IPC Meeting Minutes

Date: 1/15/26

Location: Eatonville Middle School Portable 4

Meeting Called to Order:  6:05 pm

President/Chairperson: Mandy Morlin 

Tribal Representative: Brittany Smith 

Secretary: Rainey Morlin, Kevin Nehls 

Student Representative: Lane Smith/Rainey Morlin (High School), Kayden Dewey (Middle School), Iris Smith (Elementary Schools) 

Members in Attendance:  Dracy Blue, Student Services Director, Anthony D’Amelio, MLL Teacher, Christina Neena Smith, Parent, Lily Long, Student, Mercy Morlin, Student, Rainey Morlin, Student, Alex Velasquez, Student, Mandy Morlin, Parent, Kevin Nehls, Parent

Agenda

1. Program Update
   1. Columbia Crest Academy Explanation (outdoor school)
   2. EMS will now have a Native American Club/Education
   3. Elementaries - arts and crafts are of interest
   4. Field Trips - WA State History Museum
   5. Ohop Lake Salmon Habitat visit for EMS students (water quality)
   6. NAYLA - 8th grade and above, last meeting cancelled due to the flooding, continue with Community Impact Project, one of our students is on the NAYLA student board
   7. EHS Club Day - 1 x per month at this time (Wednesdays)
   8. EHS Culture Day hosted by Leadership
2. Meeting Schedule
   1. The group would like to keep the meetings quarterly
3. Planning for STI staff training
   1. Required curriculum in schools
   2. Review of videos of schools supporting SD1
   3. Committee thoughts/idea:
      1. History of boarding school and its impact
      2. Education is part of the treaty rights
      3. Students not invested due to their families thoughts about education (increased ACES & generational trauma)
      4. Tribes are sovereign nations
      5. Knowledge on how many acknowledge tribes there are
      6. Government to government relations
      7. How do laws impact tribes
      8. Impact of 7 generations
      9. Tribes are their own governments
      10. Thanksgiving
      11. STI added to current curriculum
      12. Creating a safe space for students
      13. Sense of community/culture of belonging

Questions/Comments:  None at this time

Meeting Adjournment:  7:15 pm

 

IPC Annual Meeting

Date: 4/16/26
Location: Eatonville Middle School Meeting
Called to Order: 6:05 pm

President/Chairperson: Mandy Morlin

Tribal Representative: Brittany Smith

Secretary: Rainey Morlin, Kevin Nehls

Student Representative: Lane Smith (High School), Kayden Dewey/RaineyMorlin (Middle School), Iris Smith (Elementary Schools)

Recorder: Dracy Blue, Executive Director of Student Services

Meeting Order
1. Review and approval of By-Laws
Approved by the Committee

Eatonville School District
Indian Parent Coalition (IPC) By-Laws

Article I: Name
The name of the organization shall be the Eatonville School District Indian Parent Coalition
(IPC).

Article II: Mission Statement
The mission of the Indian Parent Coalition is to support Indian families and children by:
● Advocating for quality education
● Preserving and promoting Indian culture and heritage
● Empowering parents through resources, workshops, and community engagement

Article III: Membership
Section 1: Eligibility
Membership is open to all parents, guardians, and caregivers of Indian descent or those with an interest in supporting the Indian community and its educational and cultural goals.

Section 2: Membership Dues
Membership dues (if any) shall be determined annually by the Executive Board.

Section 3: Voting Rights

Each member is entitled to one vote in general meetings and elections.

Article IV: Officers and Elections
Section 1: Officers
The officers of the coalition shall be:
● President
● Vice President
● Secretary
● Treasurer
● Cultural Coordinator
● Education Liaison

Section 2: Election Process
● Officers shall be elected by majority vote during the annual general meeting.
● Nominations must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the election date.
● Officers shall serve a term of two years, with a maximum of two consecutive terms.
Section 3: Vacancies
In the event of a vacancy, the Executive Board may appoint a replacement until the next election.

Article V: Meetings
Section 1: General Meetings
General meetings shall be held at least quarterly and are open to all members.

Section 2: Executive Board Meetings
Executive Board meetings shall be held monthly or as needed.

Section 3: Quorum
A quorum for general meetings shall be 51% of active members. A quorum for Executive Board meetings shall be a majority of board members.

Article VI: Committees
The coalition may establish committees as needed, such as:
● Education Advocacy Committee
● Cultural Events Committee
● Parent Support and Wellness Committee
Committee chairs shall be appointed by the President with board approval.

Article VII: Finances

● The Treasurer shall maintain all financial records.
● A financial report shall be presented at each general meeting.
● Expenditures above a certain threshold (e.g., $200) must be approved by a majority vote of the Executive Board.

Article VIII: Amendments
These by-laws may be amended by a two-thirds vote of members present at any general meeting, provided that notice of the proposed amendment was given at the previous meeting or sent to members at least two weeks in advance.

Article IX: Dissolution
Upon dissolution of the coalition, any remaining assets shall be donated to a non-profit organization that supports Indian families or education, as determined by the majority vote of the membership.

2. Review and approval of the IPC Meaningful Collaboration Statement

Approved by the Committee

The Eatonville School District’s Indian Parent Committee (IPC) is committed to fostering strong, respectful, and culturally grounded partnerships between families, schools, and the broader Native community. We believe that meaningful collaboration is essential for the success and well-being of Native students. The IPC works in close collaboration with school administrators, educators, and Title VI program staff to: Provide input on program planning, implementation, and evaluation Ensure cultural relevance in academic supports and student services Advocate for equitable educational opportunities for Native students Promote the inclusion of tribal voices
and community knowledge in decision-making Review and approve Title VI grant applications and budgets, ensuring alignment with the needs and priorities of Native families We strive to create a space where Native parents and guardians are heard, valued, and empowered to shape the educational experiences of their children. Through regular meetings, open communication, and shared decision-making, the IPC plays a vital role in guiding Title VI programming and strengthening school-community relationships.

3. Review and approval of the IPC GEPA Statement
Approved by the Committee

The Eatonville School District, in collaboration with the Indian Parent Committee (IPC), is committed to maintaining an inclusive, respectful, and equitable educational environment. In accordance with Section 427 of the General Education Provisions Act (GEPA), and through the coordinated efforts of our Federal Programs and Human Resources departments, the district ensures that no student, employee, parent, or community member is discriminated against on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, disability, or religion.
To uphold this commitment, Eatonville School District implements the following practices:
● Professional Development: Provide ongoing training for faculty and staff on cultural responsiveness, equity, accessibility, and anti-discrimination policies.
● Equitable Access: Ensure that all students, including Native students, have full access to academic programs, extracurricular activities, and support services without discrimination or barriers.
● Community Engagement: Promote the respectful engagement and inclusion of all parents, families, and community members—especially tribal elders and IPC representatives—in school events and decision-making processes.
● Accessibility Measures: Maintain ADA-compliant facilities and ensure that all communications are accessible to individuals with disabilities and language needs.
● Accountability Mechanisms: Implement clear grievance procedures to address any incidents of discrimination promptly, thoroughly, and effectively.

These efforts reflect our district’s ongoing dedication to providing a safe, welcoming, and inclusive educational setting where all individuals are respected, valued, and empowered to succeed.

4. Approval of the Title VI Formula Grant Allocation for the 2026-27 School Year
Total Awarded: $20,125

SUMMARY

Budget Category                               Category Subtotal                             % of Overall Allocation

Supplemental Information

Personnel Budget                                           0                                                               0

Travel Budget                                               2500                                                        12.42

Equipment Budget                                          0                                                               0

Supplies Budget                                           3000                                                        14.91

Contractual Budget                                     5000                                                         24.84

Other Budget                                                9500                                                         47.2

Indirect Costs                                               125                                                           0.62

Grand Total                                                  20125                                                       100%

 

Other Budget: Student Activities and Professional Development

Voting Results: All meeting agenda items were approved by the IPC, as well as the budget for
the 2026-27 school year.

Meeting Adjourned: 6:45 pm