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.
Please note: To have NIEA schedule Hill meetings on your behalf, you must complete on-time registration by January 25, 2026.
We are unable to schedule meetings for registrations submitted after this deadline.
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 varies by member level:
Non-Member: $300
Associate / Elder / Student: $200
Professional: $175
Premium: $150
Please sign in to your NIEA member account before registering to receive the correct member fee at checkout.
Not a member yet? Join NIEA first, then return to register at the member rate.
(Note: The previous fee waiver is no longer offered. Registration fees support event coordination, materials, and congressional meeting logistics.)
Hotel Information
The NIEA group rate of $189 per night plus tax for stays between February 8–13, 2026 is no longer available, as the booking deadline has passed.
Attendees may still reserve rooms at the hotel’s current public rate, subject to availability.
Reservation Details
🖥️ Online: Use the NIEA2026 booking link (standard rates will now apply)
📞 By Phone: Call 888-847-1675 and reference NIEA Hill Week when speaking with a reservation agent
Cancellation Policy
Reservations may be canceled up to 72 hours (3 days) before arrival without a fee. Cancellations made after this window will be charged one night’s room and tax.
Interested in becoming a Hill Week sponsor?
Hill Week is made possible through the support of partners committed to advancing education as an expression of Tribal sovereignty and self-determination. Sponsorship opportunities provide a meaningful way to stand alongside Tribal leaders, educators, and community advocates from across the country.
Check out our Sponsorship Guide to learn how you can participate and support this important advocacy effort.