51Â鶹

The Office of Native Education is committed to ensuring that Native students across Washington thrive in every learning environment ¡ª academically, culturally, socially, and emotionally. Our work honors the sovereign rights of Tribes, the rich diversity of Native nations, and the unique strengths each Native student carries. 

The Native Student Success initiative centers Indigenous ways of knowing and teaching, builds partnerships between schools and Tribal communities, and supports programs that affirm identity, belonging, and high expectations for all Native learners. 

Together, we are working toward an educational system where Native students are seen, valued, and empowered to reach their fullest potential. 

Native Student Success is guided by the 6Rs:

• Respect
• Responsibility
• Relationship
• Reciprocity
• Relevance
• Representation

On this page, you¡¯ll find resources, programs, and opportunities designed to: 

• Strengthen cultural connections and language learning 
• Support student wellness and leadership 
• Build educator capacity for culturally sustaining teaching 
• Foster collaboration between Tribal nations, families, and schools 

Resources for Native Student Success 

Access a comprehensive collection of resources, guidance, and tools designed to support the academic, cultural, and social success of Native students. Explore toolkits, reports, research findings, and training materials to help educators identify, engage, and empower Native learners.

Resource List

 - Region 16 Comprehensive Center supports educators and communities in Alaska, Oregon, and Washington to improve education equty through evidence-based services and partnerships.

 - This video explains OSPI¡¯s role in overseeing public K¨C12 education in Washington State, including funding allocation and resource support. It highlights OSPI¡¯s collaboration with 295 school districts and 6 state-tribal education compact schools to ensure quality education for all students.

Support for Indian Education and Culture - This OSPI page provides resources and guidance to support American Indian and Alaska Native students¡¯ academic success and well-being. It connects educators with organizations focused on Native education, culture, and health.

Native Education - Rules and Regulations - This OSPI page outlines how the Native Education program follows federal and state laws to support Native American students with cultural and academic programs. It includes special schools run by tribes and a teacher certification program for Native languages and traditions. The Office of Native Education helps schools and tribes follow these rules.

OSPI Partners for Native Student Success

Learn about OSPI programs and partners dedicated to supporting Native student success across academics, social-emotional learning, and graduation pathways. 

OSPI Partner List

Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) -The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) is a federal law that replaced No Child Left Behind to help all students succeed, especially those facing challenges like poverty or learning English. Washington¡¯s education office uses ESSA to find and support schools that need help and works with the federal government to follow the rules. The law has been in full effect since the 2017¨C18 school year.

Title VI Indian Education Programs ¡ª By District -Title?VI provides federal funding to help meet the cultural, language, and academic needs of American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) students, including preschoolers. To participate, families must complete an eligibility certification form, and districts receiving these funds¡ªlisted on the page¡ªcoordinate with OSPI and federal authorities.

Social Emotional Learning - Washington¡¯s education office supports Social Emotional Learning (SEL) by providing tools, training, and guidance to help schools teach skills like self-awareness, relationship-building, and emotional management. Educators can access free online modules and resources to integrate SEL into everyday lessons using inclusive and trauma-informed practices.

Foster Care - Washington helps foster care students stay in school and succeed by offering support, resources, and coordination between schools and agencies.

McKinney-Vento Program (Students Experiencing 51Â鶹lessness) - Washington helps homeless students stay in school by providing support, funding, and resources through schools and local liaisons.

Incarcerated Youth Education Program  Washington provides education and support to students in juvenile and institutional settings to ensure they stay on track with their learning and successfully re-enter school or work.

Migrant & Multilingual Education Program - Washington helps migrant and multilingual students succeed by offering programs that support their unique learning and language needs.

Graduation - Washington high school students must earn 24 credits, complete a personal High School and Beyond Plan, and meet a Graduation Pathway to graduate. Pathways include passing college tests, earning good grades in certain courses, taking dual credit classes, or finishing career training. These rules apply to the Class of 2025 and later.

Partner Organizations for Native Student Success 

Engage with the community of state and tribal organizations collaborating to support Native students¡¯ academic, cultural, and social well-being.

Partner Organization List

  - Washington¡¯s DSHS offers health, social, and financial support services to help residents live healthier, more independent lives.

  - Washington¡¯s DOH protects public health by ensuring healthcare access, regulating providers, and managing emergencies.

 - Washington¡¯s DCYF supports and protects children and families by providing services like child welfare, foster care, early learning, and juvenile rehabilitation.