 
The Office of Indian Education extends our heartfelt congratulations to all graduating seniors in the Class of 2026! This milestone represents years of hard work, perseverance, growth, and dedication. We celebrate each of you as you take the next steps in your journey—whether that leads to higher education, career pathways, service, family, or new opportunities.
We also want to recognize and thank the many people who helped make this achievement possible: teachers, families, parents, guardians, elders, mentors, school staff, communities, and loved ones who provided encouragement, guidance, and unwavering support along the way. Your care and commitment have helped shape the success of our students.
As the school year comes to a close, we wish all students, educators, families, and partners a safe, joyful, and restful summer. May this season bring time for connection, celebration, reflection, and renewal. We look forward to reconnecting in the fall and continuing our shared work to support Native students and communities.
Congratulations again to the Class of 2026, and have a wonderful summer!
As graduation season approaches, the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) is reminding districts and education partners of the importance of honoring House Bill 2052 (2021), which affirms the right of American Indian/Alaska Native students to wear tribal regalia or culturally significant items during graduation and other school ceremonies.
This law reflects Oregon’s commitment to tribal sovereignty, cultural inclusion, and educational equity. Graduation is a meaningful milestone not only for students, but for families and communities and the ability for Native students to wear regalia is a powerful way to celebrate identity, heritage, and achievement.
ODE encourages districts to review and update any policies related to graduation attire to ensure alignment with state law. Clear, inclusive communication with students, families, and staff is essential, along with collaboration with Tribal partners, cultural liaisons, and Tribal Education Directors to ensure respectful and accurate implementation.
By supporting the wearing of tribal regalia, schools help create welcoming, culturally responsive environments that honor the diversity of Oregon’s students and communities.
For questions or support, please contact the office of Indian Education at: ODE.IndianEd@ODE.Oregon.Gov
We are pleased to announce that the Request for Application (RFA) is now open for American Indian/Alaska Native Student Success Plan (AIANSSP) Grants.
In This Message
The AIANSSP Grants fund activities and engagement to improve student outcomes for American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) students (Plan Students). The grants provide financial support to implement the Goals and Objectives within the AIANSSP 2025-2030 State Plan for Pre-K through post-secondary education through collaboration and education.
Eligible organizations who can demonstrate the capacity to serve a minimum of ten Plan Students are encouraged to apply and include:
- Community-Based Organizations
- Culturally Specific Organizations
- Early Learning Hubs
- Early Learning Providers
- Education Service Districts
- Post-Secondary Institutions of Education
- School Districts
- Tribal Governments
- Consortiums of the above entity types
Key Dates
RFA Timeline
- May 18, 2026 | Application Open
- May 21, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. | Pre‑Application Conference
- May 29, 2026 at 3:00 p.m | Questions and Requests for Clarification Deadline
- June 5, 2026 | Answers to Questions and Requests for Clarification Issued
- June 17, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. | Application Due Deadline
- July, 2026 | Issuance of Notice of Award (approximate)
Pre‑Application Conference
An optional Pre‑Application Conference will be held for interested organizations on May 21, 2026 from 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Topics will include:
- The purpose, goals and objectives of the AIANSSP 2025-30 program
- The RFA application process and review criteria
Attendance is strongly encouraged for prospective applicants. The conference will be recorded and posted on the OregonBuys website. Registration details and connection information can be found online.
Action Needed
How to Ask Questions
- Prospective Applicants may submit questions before the Questions and Requests for Clarification deadline of May 29, 2026 at 3:00 p.m. via the Q&A Smartsheet Form.
- Answers to Questions will be published, along with all other RFA documents, to the OregonBuys website on or before the Answers to Questions and Requests for Clarification date above.
How to Apply
- The RFA, application materials, and submission instructions are available on the OregonBuys website.
- All applications must be submitted by 3:00 p.m. on June 17, 2026, in accordance with the instructions outlined in the RFA.
Background Information
- Historically, American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) students have struggled in our educational system. To mitigate the barriers they experience, the Office of Indian Education was created along with the first AI/AN Student Success Plan. It encompasses the Goals and Objectives identified through consultation with the Government-to-Government Education Cluster, the AI/AN Advisory Committee and internal and external partners.
- The graduation rate for AI/AN students has increased nearly 20 percentage points since 2015, twice the rate of the statewide average over that period. AI/AN students in the Class of 2025 graduated at an all-time high rate of 74%.
- By empowering Grantees with support and funding through promotion of the Goals and Objectives within the Plan, we will improve retention, promotion, and graduation rates of AI/AN students.
- ODE’s Office of Indian Education invites applications that are culturally responsive and strength-based.
Contact Us
TH/SH Curriculum Professional Development
Professional Development from collaboration with WestED and the Office of Indian Education is now available through Canvas. Please visit the Tribal History/ Shared History Curriculum Professional Learning Modules that will take you through a series of self-paced segments that will help you deepen your knowledge of the TH/SH curriculum and the nine Federally Recognized Tribes in Oregon. The modules will also build your capacity to use best practices to implement the lessons. They offer support for both leaders and classroom educators. The modules were developed in partnership with an Advisory Council of Indigenous educators in Oregon.
Community of Practice
TH/SH Community of Practice Summer Pause
The TH/SH Community of Practice will be taking a summer break and will return in September! We are grateful for everyone who participated, shared knowledge, and helped strengthen our learning community throughout the year.
We wish you a safe, restful, and joyful Summer 2026 filled with time for renewal, connection, and celebration. We look forward to reconnecting in the fall!
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The LGBTQ2SIA+ Student Success Advisory Group shares feedback and provides guidance to the Oregon Department of Education (ODE) relies on in order to implement the LGBTQ2SIA+ Student Success Plan and grant program. Through Advisory Group members, ODE is able to uplift community needs, share resources, and invite thought partnerships from all across Oregon.
Position Details
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Application: Smartsheet application form
- Application Deadline: Tuesday June 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM
- Applicant Eligibility: High school and college age youth encouraged to apply
- According to ORS 329.847, the advisory group must include “Students who
identify as LGBTQ2SIA+”
- Every school type and educational environment is encouraged to apply
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Meetings: Monthly 2-hour meetings (Zoom) on Tuesdays between September and June, alternating between 1:00 to 3:00 PM and 4:00 to 6:00 PM PST; one in-person all day retreat in Salem, Fall 2026 TBD
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Length of Service: 1-year term with option to continue up to 4 years total
Contact
Not ready to apply to the group but want to get involved with the LGBTQ2SIA+ Student Success program in other ways? Please subscribe to our listserv to receive our newsletter, fill out our advisory group interest form, or send any questions by email or text to the LGBTQ2SIA+ SSP coordinator at LGBTQ2SIA.success@ode.oregon.gov or 503-931-9118.
The State Interagency Coordinating Council (SICC) warmly invites you to apply to become a council member to the State Interagency Coordinating Council. The SICC is specifically reaching out to recruit members who support young children with developmental delays and disabilities. Council members are responsible to:
- Advise and assist appropriate agencies on unmet needs in early childhood special education and early intervention programs for children with disabilities;
- Reviewing and commenting publicly on any rules proposed by the State Department of Education and the distribution of funds for the services;
- Assisting in developing and reporting data on and evaluation of the programs and services;
- Assist in the development and implementation of policies that constitute a statewide system;
- Assist all appropriate agencies in achieving full participation, coordination, and cooperation for implementation of statewide system;
- Ensure provision of interagency agreements are carried out;
- Review and comment on services and policies regarding services to assure cost-effective and efficient use of resources; and assist the department in the resolution of disputes.
If you have an interest in applying please go to the State Interagency Coordinating Council website and apply under How to become a council member.
Here is the meeting calendar information, agenda/notes and the bylaws.
If you need assistance or have any additional questions or comments, please contact Mandy.Stanley@ode.oregon.gov
Here Comes The Aunties
By Cynthia Leitich Smith
Joyful and warmhearted, this delightful book honors the blessings of every auntie in a child’s life, by distinguished author Cynthia Leitich Smith (Muscogee) and illustrator Aphelandra (Oneida).
“Hesci! Here come the aunties!”
Aunts by kinship as well as family friends, neighbors, and community members all step up to fill the important role of “auntie.” They are there for life’s joys, sorrows, and celebrations, bringing their own special love.
A wonderful gift from or for a treasured auntie!
For more information please visit: Here Comes the Aunties
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Hillsboro, OR: June 12th 10:00 AM - 4:00 Swing into summer with an evening of upbeat tunes, vintage vibes, and nonstop fun! Start the night with a beginner-friendly Lindy Hop lesson with Darcie Juarez designed to get everyone moving. Whether you’re brand new or already love to swing out, you’ll pick up the basics and hit the dance floor with confidence in no time. At 8 pm, the energy soars as the Rhythm Wrecker Dance Band takes the stage. Known for their driving rhythms and classic swing sound, this high energy group will have you twirling, spinning, and jumping to infectious beats all night long. Come on your own, with a partner, or bring your whole crew—no partner required! Enjoy refreshments available for purchase from Danu Wines, including wine and tasty treats. Get ready to dance the night away! Doors open at 6:45 pm. Dance lesson starts at 7 pm and band starts at 8 pm. For more information please visit:Swing into Summer
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Salem, OR: June 27th 10:00 am Join us in person for a fun and hands-on workshop where you'll dive into the beautiful art of Native American beading. The class will be taught by local Native American Artist, Michael Cherry. This class will focus on earrings, which you will design and be able to take home afterwards. Native American beading is rich in heritage and culture. You won't want to miss out on this unique experience! This class invites participants of all skill levels to explore Indigenous beading techniques while honoring the cultural significance, creativity, and storytelling woven into each design. Come connect, create, and celebrate tradition through the timeless practice of beadwork. The class is hosted by Flower Crush, located in downtown, historic Salem, Oregon, close to the Riverfront Park at 357 Court Street NE. Free parking is available 1 block away in Chemeketa Parkade. Feel free to arrive up to 15 minutes early for the class. For more information please visit: Beading with Michael Cherry
What began with pop-up events in parking lots, free of charge to vendors, quickly grew into a vibrant nonprofit organization focused on providing barrier-free, culturally respectful opportunities for artists and entrepreneurs to thrive and connect with the community. The next Indigenous marketplace pop-up will be June 6th & 7th at the Electric Blocks. For more information please visit: Pride Indigenous Marketplace 2026
We are excited to announce that the Annual City of Roses Delta Park Powwow is coming back to East Delta Park for a three-day celebration of culture, community, and tradition.
This FREE, family-friendly event is a cornerstone of the Portland community, drawing Native American and non-Native participants from across the Pacific Northwest, the United States, and Canada.
Location: Delta Park - N Denver Avenue and Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
A Legacy of Celebration
Since its inception in June 1970, the powwow has been held on this significant land. The event is organized by the Bow and Arrow Culture Club, a grassroots, all-volunteer nonprofit established in 1969 with a mission to provide Native Americans the opportunity to gather and celebrate their traditions.
What to Expect
Whether you are a long-time attendee or joining us for the first time, there is something for everyone:
- Intertribal Dancing & Cultural Exhibitions: Experience the beauty and power of traditional dance.
- Arts & Crafts Vendors: Support Indigenous artists and find unique handmade goods.
- Delicious Food: No visit is complete without enjoying some local fry bread!
For more information, please visit: Delta Park Powwow 2026
Come alive with the community for the Clara Peoples Freedom Parade. Together, we'll march down Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd in celebration of Juneteenth. There will be Live stage performances, inspiring guest speakers, children activities, vendors and much more! The celebration kicks off at 11 am at king Elementary (PDX) with a parade. To learn more please visit: Juneteenth Oregon Festival 2026
Date: June 26th - 28th
Location: 2200 Hollywood Blvd Warm Springs, OR
The Pi-Ume-Sha Treaty Days Pow Wow & Parade takes place in Warm Springs and at the Pi-Ume-Sha Grounds located behind the Warm Springs Community Center. This annual event holds profound significance for the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs Indian Reservation, serving as a poignant commemoration of the signing of the Treaty of 1855. As descendants of the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute tribes gather, they embrace their rich cultural heritage through traditional dances, drumming performances, storytelling sessions, and vibrant displays of arts and crafts. The pow-wow and parade provide a platform for both tribal members and visitors to immerse themselves in the traditions and customs passed down through generations, fostering a sense of community and unity among all participants.
Against the backdrop of the picturesque Warm Springs landscape, the Pi-Ume-Sha Treaty Days Pow Wow & Parade captivate attendees with its colorful procession, featuring elaborate floats adorned with symbols of tribal pride and history. As the parade winds its way through the heart of Warm Springs, spectators are treated to a visual feast of traditional attire, intricate beadwork, and striking regalia worn by participants of all ages. Alongside the parade, the Pi-Ume-Sha Grounds come alive with the rhythmic beat of drums and the graceful movements of dancers, creating an immersive experience that honors the resilience and cultural legacy of the Confederated Tribes. Through this celebration, the committee strives to not only preserve the legacy of the Treaty of 1855 but also to celebrate the enduring spirit and identity of the Warm Springs, Wasco, and Paiute peoples for generations to come.
For more information:
Pi-Ume-Sha Treaty Day Powwow
Pi-Ume-Sha Treaty Days Rodeo June 29th
A hallmark of the Pi-Ume-Sha Treaty Days, Native American regalia and traditional dance. Photo by Kiva Hanson
Northwest Indian Language Institute (NILI) is proud to welcome Modesta Minthorn as the keynote speaker at the Symposium on Northwest American Indigenous Languages (SNAIL) this June!
Minthorn serves as Portland State University’s first Tribal Liaison in 2023 and works to build relationships with tribal nations, communities, and peoples in the Pacific Northwest. She is an enrolled member of the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and previously served as their Director of Education.
SNAIL 2026 will be held from June 26-27 in Eugene, OR, in conjunction with the NILI Summer Institute.
For more information about SNAIL, please visit https://nili.uoregon.edu/program-offerings/snail
 
The Oregon Tribal Student Grant provides funding for eligible Oregon tribal students to offset the average cost of attendance at eligible Oregon colleges and universities. Current, new, and continuing students are encouraged to apply for this grant for each academic year. The grant is intended to cover the average cost of attendance after all federal and state grants and scholarships have been applied.
The 2026-27 Oregon Tribal Student Grant is now open! Both new and renewal students must submit both the Oregon Tribal Student Grant application and the 2026-27 FAFSA or ORSAA.
The Environmental Leadership for Youth (ELY) Camp is a residential summer experience for Tribal and Indigenous high school students, hosted on the Oregon State University main campus as part of the New Beginnings for Tribal Students (NBTS) program.
ELY Camp is designed to spark curiosity in environmental sciences, strengthen cultural connection, and expand access to higher education through hands-on learning, mentorship, and community. Youth explore environmental pathways while building relationships with Indigenous leaders, natural resource professionals, graduate students, and current OSU students.
The camp welcomes Oregon youth entering grades 9–12 who self-identify as Tribal and/or Indigenous. In keeping with principles of Tribal sovereignty and self-determination, no documentation of Tribal enrollment is required. For more information about this camp, please visit: OSU Indigenous Youth Camp
 Date: June 22- 25th, 2026
Ages: 12 - 18
Traditionally, our young people were mentored and taught how to live a good life. Through hands-on experiences, stories, and teachings, they learned how to be a good relative. The camp is intended to provide healing opportunities and skill development through ceremony, workshops, activities, movement, traditional games, crafts, and more! Youth participants will be given tools needed to live a life of balance. The Native Youth Wellness Warrior Camp is facilitated by the Native Wellness Institute and hosted by the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde on their beautiful territory in what is now called the state of Oregon.
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Meals - All meals and snacks are included in the registration fee. The first meal provided will be dinner on Monday, June 22nd, and the final meal will be lunch on Thursday, June 25th.
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Camping - Your group will have the choice to camp in a tent or tipi (if available), which is included in the registration fee. Indoor toilets and showers will be available. Tents will be provided, but campers are welcome to bring their own tents if preferred. Campers will be responsible for bringing their own bedding, towels, toiletries, etc.
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Hotel - If you would rather stay in a hotel, the tribe has offered a discounted rate at Spirit Mountain Lodge. Room reservations and payment will need to be made on your own if you choose this option. See more information below.
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Cultural Sharing Night - You are asked to bring something from home to share with the group as well- a song, dance, story, or item. We will have a cultural sharing night on the last night, and each group will have an opportunity to share.
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Closing Giveaway - The Camp will conclude with a closing giveaway ceremony on Thursday, June 25th. Please bring an item from your home territory for the ceremony- a t-shirt, mug, traditional craft item, or even something as simple as a rock.
For more information please visit: Native Wellness Warrior Camp 2026
Environmental Leadership for Youth (ELY) Summer Camp flyer, an overnight, culturally grounded camp experience for Tribal and Indigenous high school students that centers leadership, relationship-building, and learning through land, culture, and community.
Oregon Department of Education Job Openings
If you're looking for a rewarding career that positively affects the lives of children, you're in the right place! The Oregon Department of Education is the primary agency charged with overseeing K-12 public education in the state of Oregon.
Employment with Oregon state government represents more than just a job. A career in public service is an opportunity to serve fellow citizens across our beautiful state. Professions in state government help to support strong communities, healthy kids, education, economic vitality and a sustainable future.
The Oregon Department of Education has the following openings:
For More Information about these listings and further Job Openings, Please visit our Career Opportunities webpage.
ODE Career Chats are LIVE! Would you like to learn more about a position or how our application process works? Join our Recruitment Team during our ODE Career Chat Sessions. We can assist you with all your application and agency questions!
Join us on the 1st Thursday of every month from 11:00 am to 11:45 am (PST)
Join ZoomGov Meeting -https://www.zoomgov.com/j/1618573320
NAYA Job Openings
NAYA has a new look! Please visit NAYA Job openings to view all open positions.
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Indigenous Events of Portland, OR give updated events and activities that are happening in Portland through December 2025!
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Native American Travel lets you explore and learn about Tribes across America. Plan your next trip with suggested destination sites, planned itineraries, travel tips, and experiences.
- Visit the Native American Connections website to stay updated with the North Bend Community resources, available scholarships, community craft culture activities, TAPP, Tribal history/ Shared history and a variety of local services.
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Native American Culture: Celebrate Indigenous Oregon by visiting their website that was created to explore Native American culture around the state of Oregon. This site has trip ideas, historical content for all nine federally recognized Oregon Tribes, cultural activities, and updated Oregon Tribal news. To check out more about this site please visit, Travel Oregon Native American Culture.
Burns Paiute Tribe
Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians
Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians
Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde
Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation
Coquille Indian Tribe
Klamath Tribes
Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs
This is a 4-day camp for Native teens and young adults (ages 14-23) who are currently in foster care or who experienced foster care in Oregon.
August 18-21, 2026
Coquille Indian Tribe Community Plank House
1050 Plankhouse Road
Coos Bay, OR 97420
This event is facilitated by the Native Wellness Institute and hosted by the Coquille Indian Tribe and Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians.
We gather for educational workshops, arts and crafts, storytelling, and more. The interactive camp is intended to connect young people to each other and Native culture and to learn tools to help you live in balance.
Do you have events or highlights in your community that you would like showcased in upcoming newsletters? If so, please send submissions to Raina Reece at Raina.Reece@ode.oregon.gov
Questions for the Office of Indian Education?
Send to: ODE.IndianED@ODE.Oregon.gov
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