The National Indian Education Association (NIEA) is dedicated to empowering Native communities by nurturing the strengths, brilliance, and leadership of Native youth. We work alongside Tribal Nations, Native educators, families, and federal, state, and tribal partners to advance self-determination and expand learning opportunities for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students. For more than 50 years, NIEA’s advocacy has contributed to important legislative progress in education policy, improving the schools and systems that serve Native students, their families, and communities.

Hill Week is NIEA’s annual in-person advocacy event focused on Native education. It brings together Tribal Nations, Native educators, families, and allies to hear from federal leaders, share what is happening in their communities, and speak directly with Congress about the needs of Native students. Grounded in the theme Sovereign Education: Forging Our Way Forward, Hill Week lifts up the message that Tribal Nations know what our students need and that educational sovereignty must guide federal policy. At a time when Native students and schools are facing serious challenges, sharing your voice with federal decision makers could not be more important.

Hill Week will take place February 10–12, 2026 in Washington, DC.

What to expect at Hill Week:

  • Hearing from members of Congress and federal officials about current priorities, challenges, and opportunities in Native education.

  • Caucusing with other NIEA members and stakeholders to align on key messages, share community stories, and prepare together.

  • Heading to Capitol Hill for one-on-one conversations with congressional staff and decision makers to advocate for policies that honor Tribal sovereignty and support Native students.

Check back for agenda updates and additional Hill Week information as details are finalized.

Registration Information

Registration for NIEA Hill Week 2026 is now open. The registration fee is $300, which supports event coordination, meeting logistics, and advocacy materials.

NIEA members receive registration discounts based on their membership tier:

  • Premium Members: 20% off

  • Professional Members: 15% off

  • Associate, Elder, and Student Members: 10% off

To automatically receive your discount, please sign in to your NIEA member account before registering. Not yet a member? You can join NIEA before you register to access discounted rates and support ongoing advocacy for Native education.

Register Here

Hotel Information – NIEA Hill Week 2026

NIEA has secured a group rate of $189 per night plus tax for Hill Week attendees for stays between February 8–13, 2026. The last day to book at this rate is Friday, January 16, 2026. You may cancel your reservation up to 72 hours (3 days) before arrival without a fee; after that, the hotel will charge one night’s room and tax.

How to Reserve Your Room

  • Online: Use the NIEA2026 booking link and enter your stay dates. The group code NA6 will already be applied.

  • By Phone: Call 888-847-1675 and give the group code NA6 when asked.

Book Hotel