The Montana Office of Public Instruction (OPI) Indian Education for All (IEFA) Unit invites you to the 2026 IEFA Best Practices Conference.  March 23rd and 24th, East Helena High School, "We Are All Related: Planting the Seeds of Knowledge, Growing Our Montana Story."  

This is a vital opportunity to share your successful strategies, resources, and innovative practices for integrating the Essential Understandings Regarding Montana Indians and fostering culturally sustaining pedagogy. We are seeking engaging, practical sessions that demonstrate how you are building strong community relationships and embedding authentic IEFA content into your curriculum across all grade levels.

Regarding proposal submissions: All proposals have been submitted.  A detailed agenda will be posted soon so please check back.

IEFA Best Practices Conference Flyer

Teresa Veltkamp Award Recipients

Teresa Veltkamp Advocacy Award for Excellence in Indian Education for All (IEFA).   Awards will be presented on March 24th right after the morning keynote presentations.

2026 Award Recipients

  • Chris Clairmont (Superior School District): As an educator and coach, Chris demonstrates the power of IEFA integration both in the classroom and on the field, fostering an environment of respect, resilience, and historical accuracy.

  • Josephine Crisologo (Rosebud School): A true multidisciplinary leader, Josephine integrates IEFA across ELA, Math, Science, and Social Studies, proving that Indian Education for All is a foundational element of every academic discipline.

  • Lavonna Little Owl - Real Bird (Hardin Public Schools): Working in a Dual-Immersion Preschool classroom, Lavonna is at the forefront of language revitalization and early childhood cultural excellence, ensuring Montana’s youngest learners begin their journey rooted in identity.

  • Darla Stone (Beartooth Elementary, Billings): A dedicated 4th-grade teacher and Advisor for the Billings Student Tribal Council. Darla is recognized for her leadership in elevating student voices and creating pathways for urban Indian youth to lead within their school community.

  • Clint Valandra (Skyview High School & Castle Rock Middle School, Billings): Serving as an Indigenous Education Mentor and Cultural Specialist, Clint provides vital cultural context and mentorship, bridging the gap between traditional knowledge and modern secondary education.

The Indian Education Division extends its deepest gratitude to these five individuals. Their work ensures that the spirit of the Montana Constitution—which recognizes the distinct and unique cultural heritage of American Indians—is not just a legal mandate, but a lived reality for every student.

 

 

Monday Schedule

Detailed Schedule coming in March 2026

Montana Historical Society

Tour Information

  • March 23rd from 3:00 - 5:00 - MHS Staff will lead conference participants through a tour of the new Montana Heritage Center

 

Class Information

  • More information to come
 

Tuesday Schedule

Schedules coming in March 2026

Merch

 

Vendors

 

Sponsors

A special thanks to the Montana 250 Commission for supporting our conference!

 

OPI Staff are here to help:

Julie Jeffers, Indian Education Specialist, 406-438-2505

 

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