Part I

Part I- Educational Context

My educational background extends past my thirteenth contract with the district. Prior to becoming a classroom teacher I completed my teaching certificate during the first year of funding of the Indian Education for All (IEFA) when the Montana Legislature passed House Bill 528 into the law (MCA 20-1-501.) Every Montanan is encouraged to learn about the heritage of Montana's Tribal groups aligning to the Seven Essential Understandings. Initially I helped build initial IEFA lessons. This worked allowed me to take the first step towards teacher leadership. (EVIDENCE-Clip from OPI SITE)

From these first steps I have worked to increase professional learning opportunities about Indian Education for All for Teachers. I have worked as a Fourth Grade Teacher, Kindergarten Teacher, and Fifth Grade Teacher. I also spent three years as an Instructional Leader with the Schools of Promise under the Montana School Improvement Grant supporting teachers at three different Jr. High and High Schools located on reservations. My current position is as Literacy Coach primarily supporting 4th-5th Grade teachers with English Language Arts Instruction.

Our district has 22 elementary schools that I support along with two other Literacy Coaches. Much of our work involves supporting those new to our school district and/or new to their grade level band.