The Department of Education Office of Elementary and Secondary Education awarded the National Indian Education Association (NIEA) $318,611 under the Indian Education—Special Programs for Indian Children program (CFDA 84.299) on October 1, 2025, for "Teacher Leaders for Native Futures: A Hybrid Fellowship and National Community of Practice to Increase Retention Among Native-Serving Educators."
The award funds a hybrid fellowship and national community of practice designed to increase retention among Native-serving educators through mentorship and advocacy activities. Performance runs through September 30, 2027, with work performed in Washington, DC. NIEA, a Native American-owned nonprofit and the largest organization representing Native education interests, will manage the fellowship and community infrastructure directly.