NIEA works to acknowledge leaders in this field that have done substantial work to promote language, culture, and tribal sovereignty. This award is given to an Elder, 60 years or older, who has made outstanding contributions to Native education in these areas:

• Promoted understanding and appreciation of American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian cultures in an educational or community setting.

• Given lifelong service to promoting quality education through active community service.

• Served as a role model or mentor for American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian children, youth, or adults.

This prestigious award is designed to reward the important services outside the K-12 classroom environment that lead to student success and achievement. This individual should have made significant impact in the area of Native education. NIEA works to acknowledge leaders in this field that have done substantial work to promote language, culture, and tribal sovereignty. Some possible areas of impact are listed below:

• Demonstrated leadership and mentorship within their respected field.

• Should be considered an expert in their field.

• Should work to promote advanced learning at the local or national level.

NIEA works to acknowledge leaders in this field that have done substantial work to promote language, culture, and tribal sovereignty. The Community Service Award is presented to an individual or organization that has made a significant impact on Native education. Some suggested considerations could include:

• Significant efforts to provide funding or support for Native programs.

• Worked to promote tribal sovereignty in education at the state or federal level.

• Demonstrated leadership in promoting, defending, or supporting Native education.

• Supported and championed the success of Native students.

NIEA works to acknowledge leaders in this field that have done substantial work to promote language, culture, and tribal sovereignty. This award is presented to an American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian currently teaching in a public school, tribal/community school, or BIE school who shows exceptional achievement and performance in providing quality instruction to Native students. Some possible areas of impact are listed below:

• Nominee is considered to be an expert in their field and guides Native students to thrive in the classroom and beyond.

• Collaborates with colleagues, students, families, and the community to create a safe learning environment and promotes Native culture and values.

• Works to provide a significant, positive impact on the school or community.

• Demonstrates leadership and uses innovative techniques to promote lifelong learning.

• Inspires and engages student learning.

NIEA works to acknowledge leaders in this field that have done substantial work to promote language, culture, and tribal sovereignty. The Parent of the Year award is presented to American Indian, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian parents for outstanding leadership, commitment, concern, and voluntary efforts in these areas:

• Influential service on local, regional, or national committees, boards, or other such entities working to support Native education.

• Demonstrated strong commitment through volunteer work to improve educational opportunities for Native children, youth, or adults.

• Worked to strengthen Native education programs at the community, tribal, state or national level.

• Served as community role models for parenting Native students.