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ISLETA PUEBLO – The U.S. Bureau of Indian Education has officially authorized the conversion of Isleta Elementary School from a BIE school – a government operation since the 1890s – into a tribally controlled Grant School effective July 1.
This approval “reflects a monumental milestone in Indian education but also a major achievement in Indian self-determination for the Pueblo,” Isleta officials said in a news release.
BIE administrator Casey Sovo handed the approval notification to Isleta Pueblo Gov. E. Paul Torres last Thursday at Isleta Pueblo.
The approval concludes months of work by the pueblo to meet all of the strict federal requirements to assume responsibility for control over the school, tribal officials said.
Isleta is now able to create and fulfill the educational aspirations for Isleta Pueblo children as the pueblo and their parents determine, officials said.
The pueblo envisions state-of-the-art classroom instruction and technology, competing to provide local educators with competitive salaries and instructional programs to “preserve, honor and instill a deep sense of pride in the local culture and traditional values.”
The Pueblo of Isleta Elementary School has been operated by the U.S. government since the late 1890s and has been the center of village life for generations of Isleta Pueblo Tribal members.
The pueblo is currently recruiting professional education and support positions to staff the school.
The native TIWA Language Program will become a vital part of instruction at the school, officials said.
For more information, contact the Human Resources Office at the Pueblo of Isleta at poiemployment@isletapueblo.com.
