It's with a heart full of excitement and renewed purpose that I share some big news: I'm back! I am once again serving as the Director of Indian Education for All (IEFA) at the Montana Office of Public Instruction. Many of you probably do not know, but I took a short break from this role to explore other paths. But sometimes, you have to step away from something great to find out where you truly belong. During my time away, I realized just how deeply passionate I am about the work we do at IEFA. The truth is, I simply couldn't stay away! I missed the incredible IEFA team, the important collaborations with schools and tribal communities, and the opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of Montana's students. I'm so grateful to have the chance to return and continue this vital work.
Looking Ahead: A Busy and Exciting Year
With the legislative session on the horizon, I'm eager to reconnect with the Indian Caucus and other legislators who share our commitment to Indian Education for All. We have a lot to accomplish together!
The IEFA Team and I will be focusing our efforts on:
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Developing culturally responsive curriculum and resources: We believe that all Montana students deserve to learn the complete and accurate history of our state's tribes.
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Professional Development: We believe that all Montana teachers should have the tools and background knowledge to effectively teach about Montana tribes.
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Individualized Assistance: The IEFA Team will launch a new survey tool this year that will allow us to aid schools in building capacity to implement IEFA based on need, and provide ongoing assistance in these efforts.
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Advocating for educational equity: We'll be working tirelessly to ensure that all students have access to a high-quality education, regardless of their background.
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Ensuring compliance with relevant laws: We're committed to upholding the legal mandates that protect and promote Indian Education.
Stay Connected!
I'm incredibly excited to be back in this role and I can't wait to see what we can accomplish together in the coming year. Be sure to subscribe to this newsletter for regular updates on our progress and initiatives. And as always, please don't hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or if there's anything we can do to support your work in Indian Education.
Chris Morigeau
Director of Indian Education for All
Montana Office of Public Instruction
Bringing the Story of the Cheyenne People to the Children of Today Grades 1-12 – See pages 46-58 for the Trying to Return Home lesson plan and background information regarding the Ft. Robinson Breakout.
The Fort Robinson Outbreak Spiritual Run is an annual event held every January. It commemorates a pivotal moment in Northern Cheyenne history: the daring escape of 300 tribal members from a government-imposed reservation in 1878. Driven by a longing for freedom and a return to their ancestral lands in Montana, they fled the harsh conditions and forced confinement of the Indian Territory in present-day Oklahoma. This courageous act, often called the "Cheyenne Exodus," became a symbol of resistance against the U.S. government's policies of control and assimilation.
The run retraces the path of these brave individuals, acknowledging the immense challenges they faced during their journey north, including starvation, bitter winter weather, and relentless pursuit by the American Army. The event serves as a powerful tribute to the Northern Cheyenne people's indomitable spirit. Participants, who often run or walk the course in traditional attire, embody the strength and resilience of their ancestors.
More than just a race, the Spiritual Run is a deeply meaningful cultural experience. It incorporates storytelling and moments of reflection, providing a space to connect with the history and heritage of the Northern Cheyenne people. The event fosters a sense of community and shared purpose, strengthening the bonds that connect generations. The Spiritual Run also serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving Native American history and culture, encouraging dialogue about the ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities.
More information about the Fort Robinson Outbreak Spiritual Run can be found here.
It is wintertime and now is the time to share oral traditions and storytelling. Please consider sharing Blackfeet and Crow star stories with your students. These ancient stories are excellent examples of the oral tradition, and they teach us great lessons about love, family, and respect so be sure to share them with your students.
Montana Skies: Blackfeet Astronomy Videos
Montana Skies: Crow Astronomy Videos
In addition, the NMAI has a great listing of star stories from tribes across the US.
Star Stories from the National Museum of the American Indian
Check out our IEFA lesson plans for coyote stories from the Salish – The Gift of the Bitterroot and Beaver Steals Fire
Be sure to show this Beaver Steals Fire video from CSKT.
January 23 marks a tragic moment in Montana history this was the date of the horrific massacre of innocent Blackfeet children, women, and elderly. The Montana Historical Society has resources for teaching about this tragic event. Marias (Bear Creek) Massacre resources
- No registration required
- Earn 1 professional development renewal unit
- 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month
It's getting cold outside! Or at least, it is supposed to. What better time is there to pop into one of our sessions and earn renewal units and increase your IEFA knowledge?
IEFA Energize Webinars
1st Tuesday of each month
Join OPI's IEFA staff on the 1st Tuesday of every month to hear important announcements; dive into model lessons; learn about new resources, play games, earn prizes, and more!
IEFA Across the Content
3rd Tuesday of each month
Indian Education for All implementation strategies provided by K-12 educators both on and off-reservation. Content areas covered: ELA, Math, Science, Social Studies, Health Enhancement, FCCS, CTE, Music, and Art. These webinars are recorded and available to watch on our IEFA YouTube channel, too!
YouTube Channel
Are you looking for engaging and informative resources to improve your IEFA background knowledge and improve your teaching? Check out our YouTube Channel for engaging IEFA content and a wealth of classroom materials to deepen understanding and enhance your teaching.
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IEFA Finance Reporting Update FAQ
IEFA ANB Reporting Guide
HOW TO - IEFA PAYMENT: REPORTING GUIDE
If you have any questions, please reach out to one of the IEFA team members. Contact information can be found here.
The OPI is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to people with disabilities. If you need a reasonable accommodation, require an alternate format, or have questions concerning accessibility, contact the OPI ADA Coordinator, 406-444-3161, opiada@mt.gov, Relay Service: 711.
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