Assistant Secretary Kirkland Visits BIE-Funded Schools to Highlight Cultural Excellence, Innovation, and Workforce Pathways

Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs William “Billy” Kirkland, a citizen of the Navajo Nation, recently visited several Bureau of Indian Education-funded schools. He met with tribal leaders, educators, and students to see highlights in education innovation, cultural preservation, and workforce development across Indian Country. His visits to Indian Island School in Maine, Choctaw Central Middle School in Mississippi, and Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute in New Mexico reflect the Department of the Interior’s continued commitment to strengthening tribal education through partnership, opportunity, and student-centered programming.

At Indian Island School in Maine, Assistant Secretary Kirkland observed how the school’s STEAM programming integrates science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics with language and culture. Educators demonstrated how hands-on learning experiences in STEAM are grounded in cultural identity and community values. Students shared projects that reflect technical skill development and pride in their heritage, underscoring the school’s commitment to preparing learners for future academic and career pathways while preserving Wabanaki heritage.

At Choctaw Central Middle School, located on the lands of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians, Assistant Secretary Kirkland participated in the “History Rocks: America250’s Trail to Independence Tour,” an initiative of U.S. Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon. Choctaw Central Middle School was selected as Mississippi’s stop on the national tour, which is traveling to all 50 states in the order they joined the Union. Tribal Chief Cyrus Ben, tribal council members, school administrators, and students welcomed Assistant Secretary Kirkland to campus. During the visit, he toured Teacher of the Year Susie Henry’s English classroom, where students were developing projects centered on Choctaw tales, and the NASA Teacher Enhancement Center, the only one of its kind located on a school campus. Students opened an assembly with the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem in the Choctaw language, participated in U.S. history activities, and showcased traditional social dances through the Choctaw Central High School Pow Wow Club. The visit highlighted the strong partnership between the tribe and federal agencies as well as the school’s integration of academic excellence and cultural pride.

At Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute in Albuquerque, Assistant Secretary Kirkland focused on career readiness and workforce development initiatives that prepare students for in-demand careers. He toured the culinary arts program, where students receive hands-on training in food preparation, nutrition, and hospitality management, gaining industry-relevant experience. He also visited the optometry technician program, which provides specialized healthcare training designed to address workforce shortages in tribal and rural communities. Faculty and students discussed how these programs create clear pathways from education to employment, ensuring graduates leave with both credentials and practical skills aligned with regional economic needs.

Through these visits, Assistant Secretary Kirkland reaffirmed the Department’s commitment to advancing educational excellence, cultural preservation, and economic opportunity in tribal communities. By engaging directly with students, educators, and tribal leadership, he continues to strengthen federal–tribal partnerships and support schools that are equipping Native students to succeed academically, culturally, and professionally.