Upcoming IEFA Resources!
The OPI IEFA team is committed to providing ongoing support and resources for effective IEFA implementation. We're thrilled to announce some exciting new initiatives designed to empower Montana educators:
- Stay Tuned for our NEW Hub Course Series on 'The Framework, A Practical Guide for Montana Teachers and Administrators Implementing Indian Education for All'
- This comprehensive online course will delve deeper into the strategies and best practices outlined in "The Framework," offering practical guidance for integrating IEFA into your daily teaching. This will be an invaluable resource for both new and experienced educators seeking to enhance their IEFA instruction and meet the requirements of Montana's constitutional mandate. Look for enrollment details coming soon to the OPI Teacher Learning Hub!
- Introducing the IEFA New Teacher Toolkit Online Magazine!
- Designed specifically for new educators in Montana, this online magazine will be a go-to resource for understanding IEFA's foundations, accessing popular lessons and resources, and connecting with a supportive community. It will offer practical tips, inspiring stories, and a curated collection of materials to help new teachers confidently weave IEFA into their classrooms from day one. Keep an eye on the OPI IEFA website for its launch!
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New IEFA legislation signed into law - Be sure to check out the updated law and stay tuned for further guidance regarding the new provisions.
- New IEFA lesson plans coming your way soon - Powwow Guide, MMIP Resources, Blackfoot perspectives regarding Maslow, Autoshop lesson and IEFA math guidance.
We look forward to a successful and enriching school year as we continue to champion Indian Education for All across Montana!
IEFA Humor - And so it was... a Dakota elder was giving some advice to his son, and he said, "you should never criticize someone until you have walked a mile in their moccasins". The boy asked "why" and the elder responded..."well, that way you can be a mile away plus you have his moccasins...."
Upcoming Celebrations
Events in Indian Country
August is a vibrant time across Montana's Indian Country, filled with opportunities to experience and celebrate the rich cultures of the state's Tribal Nations. These events offer invaluable opportunities for cultural immersion and learning. We encourage everyone to respectfully participate and learn from these vibrant traditions.
Here are a few highlights:
- Crow Fair (Crow Agency, MT): August 13-19, 2025
- Known as the "Tipi Capital of the World," this annual celebration is the largest Native American event in Montana, drawing participants and spectators from around the globe. Experience daily parades showcasing traditional regalia, captivating evening powwow grand entries, and the excitement of the INFR sanctioned All-Indian rodeo and Indian-relay horse races.
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Rocky Boy Powwow (Box Elder, MT): August 1-4, 2024 (Please note: This event information is from 2024. For 2025 dates, please check the official Rocky Boy's Agency events calendar closer to the date.)
- A significant annual gathering that features vibrant dancing, drumming, and singing, reflecting the traditions of the Chippewa Cree Tribe.
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Wadopana Celebration (Wolf Point, MT): Early August (Exact dates vary annually, please check with Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes for 2025 details.)
- A joyful celebration by the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, featuring cultural activities and powwow dances.
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Turns Around Celebration (Poplar, MT): Mid-August (Exact dates vary annually, please check with Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes for 2025 details.)
- Another significant gathering for the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes, offering opportunities for cultural exchange and celebration.
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Fort Kipp Celebration (Fort Kipp, MT): End of August (Exact dates vary annually, please check with Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribes for 2025 details.)
- A vibrant celebration in the Fort Kipp community.
We recommend verifying dates and details for all events with the respective tribal nations or event organizers
