Tribal Government Affairs

The disproportionality of American Indian/Alaska Native student recruitment, retention, and completion rates can be addressed through building collaborative partnerships and consultation between local Tribes and community and technical colleges. SBCTC is attempting to address these disparities by developing a robust outreach initiative, trainings for colleges, and curriculum review to incorporate indigenous knowledge systems.

Currently, some of our community and technical colleges are working with local Tribes to build trust and relationships from which to build authentic, respectful change, as well as to open pathways of opportunities. Tribal engagement needs statewide coordination and training, so colleges are appropriately prepared to begin this work with sovereign nations. Community and technical colleges across the state have mobilized and are requesting technical assistance to engage regional and local Tribes.

Leading With Racial Equity, Our Colleges Maximize Student Potential And Transform Lives Within A Culture Of Belonging That Advances Racial, Social, And Economic Justice In Service To Our Diverse Communities.

Washington State’s American Indian populations represent the smallest ‘N’ which has caused gaps and distorted statistical analysis impacting American Indian student recruitment, retention, completion rates and other post-secondary attainment trends. SBCTC will prioritize strategic goals to build meaningful relationships between 34 Community and Technical Colleges and 29 Federally Recognized Tribes. These goals will ensure adequate training, curriculum development and formal partnerships as meaningful and engaging with the most historically underrepresented population. This will be done through Tribal Consultation protocols, processes, and policies. Tribal Advisory Boards at the Community College level will engage to develop specific Tribal engaged Diversity, Equity and Inclusion goals.

• Expand Professional Development: Train Washington community and technical college leaders about RCW 43.376
• Tackle Contemporary Challenges: Intentionally recruit Tribal relations specialists, as well as Indigenous faculty and staff.
• Raise Awareness: Build educational opportunities about American Indian and Alaska Native historical burdens and intergenerational trauma.
• Reduce American Indian and Alaska Native Education and Economic Disparities: Develop Tribal student pathways that lead to successful recruitment, retention, and completion rates; and raise opportunities for workforce development within Tribal economies.