Through strong government-to-government relationships and collaborative efforts, we have increased tribal contracts for ICW agreements by 15% and secured nearly $30 million in funding to enhance support and services for WICWA, Tribal Early Learning, and additional philanthropic funding for culturally relevant services. We also completed a comprehensive rewrite of the ICW Policies and Procedures through meaningful consultation with tribes.

I am deeply grateful for the growth, learning, and invaluable relationships built during my time in this role. As I move on to my new position, I carry with me the lessons learned and the shared commitment to the well-being of Indian children and families.

Thank you for the trust and support over the nearly nine years as the former Tribal Early Learning Liaison and the outgoing Office of Tribal Relations Director.

DCYF Staff Spotlight

Article written by Heidi Pless, SHPM4 - A&PPM, and submitted by Betsy Tulee, Active Efforts Navigator, DCYF Office of Tribal Relations 

Emilie Boettger has maintained the role as the Region 3 Tribal Payment Only worker for nearly 3 years and has been with DCYF since 2017. In her current role, she supports Region 3 tribes including Lummi Nation, Tulalip, Sauk-Suiattle, Samish, Stillaguamish, Nooksack, Upper Skagit, and Swinomish.  

Emilie has navigated the needs and provided support to the tribes in our region with curiosity, wisdom, and creativity. She balances leadership, consistency, and maintains a high work ethic while also honoring and respecting tribal sovereignty. She has quickly become the expert in all areas to ensure each tribe can access the support they need. Most recently she has provided support and training to the tribes for the growing program of Extended Foster Care and the Tribal Guardianship Assistance Program.

Emilie has received positive recognition from several tribes, including one who commented:

“Thanks again for all of your help! Covering this position would have been very difficult without your willingness to answer questions and your timely responses. I appreciate all do for us here at this Tribe.” 

Another tribal staff commented:

“Emilie is phenomenal. Has always been helpful in every capacity."

Emilie’s partnership with the regional tribes has significantly impacted collaboration with tribes on all levels. In her free time, Emilie can be found enjoying a latte at a coffee shop, going for a run, exploring a new city, or making art.

Tribal Early Learning Fund Spotlight

Tulalip Tribes-Betty J. Taylor Early Learning Academy

DCYF was pleased to award Tribal Early Learning Funds (TELF) to the Tulalip Tribes Betty J. Taylor’s Early Learning Academy for the 2023-2024 fiscal year. Located in Region 3, the Academy serves approximately 240 students.

With these funds, the Academy focused on several funding priorities: elders and storytelling; culturally responsive books and materials; incorporating indigenous foods; traditional music and arts; transportation; and professional development.

A particular initiative of note included the Clam Bake – an opportunity for the community to come together to learn about local, cultural foods. Traditional materials such as thimble berry leaves, skunk cabbage, and two kinds of seaweed were used in the claim pit. Students got to see and be part of the process, to learn intergenerational knowledge, and to grow in their understanding of their cultural roots. Students listened intently as elders shared stories with the crowd. Between enjoying salmon, clams, and fry bread, the children sang and danced with their parents and caregivers.

The Academy also used TELF funds for purchasing and gathering supplies. Cedar bundle and cattails were used to make head bands for graduation, as well as matts for nap time in the long house. Wool was purchased to make skirts and head bands. Originally, wool clothing was made by wooly dog (now extinct) and mountain goat wool. A local master weaver taught summer youth and teacher assistants to make wool skirts for each classroom. These skirts are showcased in classrooms to immerse students in the traditional ways of the Tribe.

2024 Indigenous Children, Youth & Families (ICYF) Conference

October 16-17, 2024 | 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. 

The ICYF conference is a free, online event which gathers caregivers, tribal partners, caseworkers, early learning providers, and juvenile rehabilitation staff to learn together and improve our shared practice.

This year's theme is Achieving the Gold Standard: Tribal Champions and Best Practices. Over the two-day conference, champions in the field will have an opportunity to share with participants the innovative work that they are doing to support Native families. 

To register:

1. Log in or Create an Account on the UW Alliance catalog.
2. Under the Courses tab, search for DCYF Indigenous Children, Youth and Families Conference 2024.
3. Click on the blue “Take course” button to register. 

If you require an alternate format for this information, need language interpretation services, or need another accommodation or modification to participate in this event, please contact the Office of Tribal Relations at dcyf.tribalrelations@dcyf.wa.gov.

Help to spread the word about ICYF 2024 by downloading and sharing the event flyer. 

Native & Strong Lifeline

Mental health issues can make you feel alone. You are not alone.

The Native & Strong Lifeline provides all Indigenous people in Washington state with listening ears and caring support. Services are free, confidential, and provided by Native counselors trained to listen and provide support and resources.

Call 988 and press 4.

For more information and resources, visit the Native & Strong Lifeline website.