Celebrating Henry’s Impact as He Plans for Retirement
Please Join us in Congratulating Henry (Stahobi) Strom on His Upcoming Retirement, Effective June 1, 2026
Over nearly 40 years of dedicated service to children, students, educators, families, and communities across Washington, Henry has shown an unwavering commitment to learning and leadership. His career has included roles as a Tribal Head Start teacher, classroom teacher, building administrator, central office director, and district superintendent. Across each role, he has helped create conditions that connect schools more meaningfully with the communities they serve, emphasizing our shared responsibility for the success of every child.
Together, we have seen how Henry’s deep historical perspective has shaped system development and supported environments where adults can grow professionally—ultimately helping students thrive. He has also been a strong advocate for strengthening relationships between school districts and Tribes, working to elevate Native student voices and communities while advancing practices that are inclusive, responsive, and reflective of diverse perspectives.
We remain committed to continuing this important work and supporting our partners, carrying forward the tools, values, and approaches Henry has instilled in all of us. We wish him well in his next chapter and beyond.
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Each month, we are honored to lift up individuals who are making a meaningful difference in the lives of Native students across Washington. This month, we are proud to highlight both a dedicated community leader and an emerging youth leader whose work reflects the heart of Native Student Success.
Mildred “Millie” Loughnane—Tribal Liaison
Suquamish Elementary School, North Kitsap School District
Nominated by Assistant Principal Adriana Prince, Mildred “Millie” Loughnane is described as “the heart of Suquamish Elementary.” As a Native American liaison, Millie’s presence is felt throughout the school community—from greeting students each morning with warmth and care, to creating spaces where they feel safe, seen, and supported.
Millie’s impact extends far beyond daily connection. She actively brings culture, community, and opportunity into the school through her leadership and coordination of meaningful programming:
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Culture Fair: Partnering with the Suquamish Tribe education department and Chief Kitsap Academy to provide hands-on learning experiences, including weaving, fishing practices, language lessons, and cultural storytelling.
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Classroom Connections: Organizing visits that integrate S’Klallam language and align with Since Time Immemorial curriculum, including salmon lifecycle learning and hatchery experiences.
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Family & Community Engagement: Hosting culture nights such as a Fierce Aunties read-aloud, along with beading, traditional activities, and shared meals that bring families together.
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Student Advocacy & Leadership: Serving on the School Leadership Team and Student Study Team, where her relationships and advocacy support student success at every level.
Millie’s work reflects what we heard across the state—Native student success is built through relationships, cultural connection, and a deep commitment to community.
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Brooke Bair—Student Leader
President, Native American Student Union (NASU), Rogers High School, Puyallup School District
Nominated by Native American Education Liaison Kayla Guyett, Brooke Bair (Turtle Mountain Chippewa) represents the next generation of Native leadership.
As President of her school’s Native American Student Union, Brooke leads with purpose, voice, and vision. She consistently advocates for greater visibility and recognition of Native students, while creating space for important conversations around identity, current events, and education.
Brooke’s leadership reaches beyond her school. She actively participates in district opportunities, continually growing her skills as a young Native leader and future educator. Her commitment to showing up, learning, and leading is already making a difference.
As shared in her nomination: “Our district is a brighter place with her in it.”
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Want to Nominate Someone for the Native Student Success Spotlight?
Do you know a student, educator, program, or community member making a difference?
I would love to feature them in an upcoming newsletter. Please email me at bawaajigekwe.boulley@k12.wa.us with:
- Your name
- School, district, or organization
- Who you are nominating (name and role)
- A few sentences about what they are doing and why it matters
Photos, links, or student work are always welcome.
Celebrate Culture, Movement, and Inclusion
May 30 | 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
University of Puget Sound
Special Olympics Washington is hosting an Inclusive Indigenous Games Showcase on May 30th at University of Puget Sound in Tacoma Washington. The showcase is for ALL AGES and ALL ABILITIES. They will be highlighting the inclusive work of Tulalip, Muckleshoot, Nisqually, and Yakama. Activities will include basketball (being run by Native Youth Rise Above), hockey, AI/AN Young Athletes, Inclusive Native Teachings and lacrosse, and so much more.
Please see the attached flyer for more information or scan the QR code to register!
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ALL STUDENTS PREPARED FOR POST-SECONDARY PATHWAYS, CAREERS, AND CIVIC ENGAGEMENT.
Led by State Superintendent Chris Reykdal, OSPI oversees K-12 public education in Washington state. Our mission is to provide funding, resources, tools, data and technical assistance that enable educators to ensure students succeed in our public schools, are prepared to access post-secondary training and education, and are equipped to thrive in their careers and lives.
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