Philips Indian Educators (PIE)

Founded in 2004 Philips Indian Educators (PIE) is a growing network of Indian educators from public, alternative, and charter schools. PIE’s mission is to dramatically improve education for Indian students through systemic change in the education service delivery system. They are attempting to change the education system to respond directly to the special needs of the Native American community. During their first two years PIE focused on developing “Best Practices in Indian Education” and since 2006 have been working diligently in the public school system to get these practices officially adopted. PIE also offers workshops for educators, parents and students to bring long-overdue improvement to the education of Native American students. With grants from the Fund of the Sacred Circle, PIE’s work will be continuing in four areas over the next year: expanding the network of educators who meet to discuss best practices; developing Native-based curriculum and offer trainings; launching a PIE website to further engage educators across Minnesota and the country; continue to engage in negotiations with leadership in the Minneapolis Public Schools about policies, practices and resources necessary to improve Indian education in Minneapolis.