Julie Jeffers is a descendant of the Little Shell Chippewa Tribe of Montana. She is a recent graduate of Salish Kootenai College with a bachelor's degree in Tribal Historic Preservation. Julie is currently working at the Montana Office of Public Instruction as an Indian Education Specialist. Julie has decades of knowledge working with children and schools as a preschool teacher, special education aid, and in IEFA. Her most recent work was as an Indian Education Home to School Coordinator for School District 2 (Billings) before moving to the Flathead Reservation to finish her degree. Julie is excited to bring her talents and experience to OPI.  

“I am thrilled to be part of a wonderful team and to continue my IEFA journey.”

Introduction: New Director of Indian Education for All

Christopher J. Morigeau is a Citizen of the Confederated Salish & Kootenai Tribes of northwestern Montana. Chris has spent the last ten years in some form of education, whether through continued learning or teaching. He has served primarily as a Special Education teacher in the Ronan School District (Go Chiefs & Maidens!), and spent a year teaching at Willard Alternative School in Missoula (a brilliant model for meeting ALL students' needs). In between teaching stints, Chris completed his Master's in Educational Leadership and earned a Juris Doctorate with a focus on Indian Law from the Alexander Blewett III School of Law at the University of Montana. 

Chris is honored he gets to spend time on the Salish Kootenai College Board of Directors. Chris is very passionate about expanding Native services and representation across Montana schools. The work with the College has greatly aided Chris in creatively applying budgets, meeting accreditation, expanding services, and all while doing so under an Indigenous lens. He is very excited to bring that experience to the IEFA Team.

Chris currently resides on the reserved traditional lands of the Seli'š Ksanka & Qlispe' Nations in Ronan, MT with his wife, three children, three cultural nieces and nephews, and three dogs. Never a dull moment. Outside of work, Chris most enjoys spending his time with his family going to concerts, glamping, traveling, or finding other experiences that will hopefully bring lasting memories. On the rare occasions he finds free time for himself, Chris loves all things Star Wars, Dungeons & Dragons, Podcasts, Cincinnati Bengals, Tottenham Spurs, and gaming.

"I am eager to empower Montana schools to champion Indian Education for All through dynamic programs, resources, and other assistance by supporting and guiding the amazing IEFA team."