What is a Tribal Education Advocate?

The Tribal Education Advocate (TEA) attends each Indian Education Committee (IEC) meeting. Within these parent-ran committees, the TEA assists the IEC in parent rights and responsibilities of guiding and running the IEC. The TEA also keep parents informed of issues facing Indian families in the local schools along with referencing resources to parents. Any parent who has children attending the schools are always encouraged to be involved and join the IEC meetings. If you have any questions regarding the IEC's, please contact the Tribal Education Department at (406) 675-2700. 

Parent and Student Advocacy

The TEA also works as an advocate for families when there are educational issues that arise. The TEA combines their advocacy role and works as a liaison between the parents, students and the school. The TEA can attend any meetings with the school upon parental request. These meetings can include IEP’s (Individualized Education Plans), 504 Plans regarding a child's disability as identified by the law, the discussion and implementation of a Behavior Plan, expulsion hearings, or any other meetings with the school and parent that may occur.

Staff Contact:

Alfred DeRoche works with the Arlee, Nkwusm and St. Ignatius communities/schools. Phone: (406)675-2700 ext. 1070     Email: Alfred.DeRoche@cskt.org 

Sarah BigSam works with the Charlo, Dixon Early Childhood Services/Head Start and Ronan communities/schools. Phone: (406)675-2700 ext. 1072     Email: Sarah.BigSam@cskt.org

Karissa Trahan will work with the Dayton, Hot Springs, Polson and Valley View communities/schools. Phone: (046)675-2700 ext. 1405     Email: Karissa.Trahan@cskt.org 

All three advocates support with advocacy at Two Eagle River School.