Onamia – American Indian Education in Minnesota 101

In April 2019 Governor Tim Walz and Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan performed a ceremonial signing of Executive Order 19-24 (which came into law in 2023) with several Tribal leaders and officials. Photo by Melanie Franks

The Minnesota Department of Education (MDE) is pleased to announce a significant training opportunity designed in collaboration with Tribal Nations and the urban American Indian community in Minnesota. This training program is specifically tailored for school district administrators, staff, school board members, and educators to enhance their understanding and engagement with Native learners and families.

The primary goal of this training is to equip K-12 educators, staff, and administrators with the knowledge and tools necessary to serve American Indian students and foster positive relationships effectively. Participants will gain insights that they can apply directly in their teaching practices and community interactions.

This training has been developed in partnership with MDE, University of Minnesota Duluth – Tribal Sovereignty Institute, the Minnesota Department of Transportation – Tribal State Relations Training, and the Minnesota Humanities Center.

We look forward to welcoming you to this important initiative aimed at strengthening our collective commitment to Native education and community engagement.

Visit the MDE Tribal Relations Training web page to learn more and to access the two free pre-requisite online courses.

Lodging

Lodging is recommended at Grand Casino Mille Lacs (777 Grand Avenue, Onamia, MN 56359 – same location of the two-day training). Rooms are $99.00 – 109.00 per night plus taxes and fees until July 8, 2024. Call Grand Casino Mille Lacs at 800-626-5825 and mention code TDE722M for the training block (or enter the code when you register online).

District Reimbursement

District Reimbursement Application – MDE Tribal Relations Training – District Reimbursement Application (office.com)

This form must be completed if a district would like to receive the reimbursement of $500 per participant. The payments will be processed by MDE after the training.

Registration

This event is free but registration is required. Please complete the registration form for each individual attending.

K-12 educators, staff, and administrators will receive 13.5 clock hours upon completion of the training.

Registration Questions: Contact Melanie Franks — MDE Tribal Liaison at melanie.franks@state.mn.us.

REGISTRATION FOR THIS EVENT HAS CLOSED