Uplifting Student Voices

The Bureau of Indian Education is committed to placing students at the center of everything it does. As part of this commitment, the BIE has established the Student Advisory Board — a group of student representatives who will provide valuable input on Bureau priorities and initiatives.

The Student Advisory Board is a key part of BIE efforts to improve communication and collaboration with students, who are among our most important stakeholders. By uplifting student voices, the Student Advisory Board will help ensure that BIE’s work reflects the needs, ideas, and experiences of the students we serve.

Members of the Student Advisory Board will meet regularly to share feedback, discuss challenges, and offer suggestions that support student success. Their contributions will help guide the implementation of BIE’s Strategic Direction and strengthen our mission to provide high-quality, culturally-based education.

The Student Advisory Board will consist of four to six members:

  • One member to represent Bureau Operated Schools
  • One member to represent Navajo Schools
  • One member to represent Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute
  • One member to represent Haskell Indian Nations University
  • One member to represent Tribally Controlled Schools (if choosing to participate)
  • One member to represent Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs) (if choosing to participate)
A student in a purple graduation robe and cap stands center stage between two teachers who wrap a blanket around her.

Applications for the 2026-2027 Student Advisory Board are due Friday, March 27, 2026, by 5 p.m. ET.
Only emailed applications are accepted. Email all application documents to BIE.SAB@BIE.EDU.

Eligibility and Responsibilities

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Student Advisory Board, students must:

  • Be in good academic standing at the time of application, as certified by their local school leader.
  • Be entering a BIE-funded high school or a BIE-funded post-secondary institution in the upcoming academic year.
  • Complete every portion of the application process by the deadline.
     

Responsibilities

If selected, Student Advisory Board members will be expected to do the following:

  • Meet biannually, either in person or virtually.
  • Agree to serve and complete a 1-year term. (No member is eligible for reappointment once their term has ended.)
  • Provide input on the priorities and progress of the BIE Strategic Direction as we strive to achieve the BIE’s mission and vision.
  • Act on any deliverables resulting from their meetings, as appropriate.
  • Maintain acceptable academic standing.
  • Abide by all BIE Student Advisory Board Policies and Procedures.

Application Process

Students can be nominated by teachers, administrators, and other school personnel. Students can also self-nominate. A nominated student will be given an application packet to complete. The application packet includes an application form, including a short statement/essay, and one letter of recommendation. Applications will be reviewed and scored by a committee appointed by the BIE Director, assessing the following criteria:

  • Academics: Is the student in good academic standing?
  • Recommendation: Does the student meet the minimum recommendation requirement? If so, does the recommendation provided indicate the student would be a good fit for the Student Advisory Board?
  • Statement and Essay: Does the student show an understanding of the BIE mission and vision and indicate they will be a good fit for the Student Advisory Board?

Timeline

  • A call for nominations and applications will go out and be open for two months.
  • The application review committee will review and score all applications within one month.
  • Selection and notification will be sent to selected participants and their school administrators shortly after the application review committee’s decision, indicating acceptance to the Student Advisory Board for the following school year.
  • Decision notices for SY 26–27 will be sent in April 2026.

Download and Apply

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the time commitment for Student Advisory Board members beyond the biannual meetings?
    1. The two biannual meetings are the only required commitment, and each will last about 1–2 hours. Outside of these meetings, we simply ask members to use their voice to share their perspectives on how BIE’s strategic direction is being received in their schools and communities. There may be optional opportunities — like leadership chats or skill-building sessions — but they will not be required and will depend on availability.
  2. Will travel expenses be covered if meetings are held in person?
    1. If a meeting is held in person, BIE will cover travel-related expenses, so students aren’t responsible for those costs. Some travel processes may require upfront payment with reimbursement afterward, but BIE will work to minimize any burden.
  3. How long are the biannual meetings, and what is the typical format?
    1. For SY 26–27, meetings are expected to be virtual and about 1–2 hours long. If an in-person meeting becomes possible, it could span several days (including travel), but that would depend on funding and scheduling. We’ll work closely with members to make sure timing works for most students.
  4. What kind of input will Student Advisory Board members be expected to provide? 
    1. Members will share their unique perspective as a student leader on BIE’s strategic goals and initiatives. The first meeting will include an overview of the Strategic Direction. Over the course of the experience, we’ll ask for the Student Advisory Board’s on what’s working and what could improve — across academics, culture, technology, and other areas. Student insights will be used to inform further strategic planning and senior leadership discussions at the BIE.
  5. Will members receive training or orientation before their first meeting?
    1. Yes! We’ll offer an optional (highly recommended) onboarding session before the first meeting and share helpful resources in advance. These will include an information packet and other materials to help you feel confident and prepared. No extensive pre-work is required—everything is designed to support you. If you can’t attend the orientation, no problem—the first meeting will cover everything you need.
  6. Are there any benefits or incentives for serving on the Student Advisory Board?
    1. Serving on the board is a unique opportunity to:
      1. Develop leadership and advocacy skills by representing student voices at a national level  
      2. Build connections with peers and BIE leaders who are shaping education policy  
      3. Enhance your resume or college applications with meaningful service experience  
      4. Receive a certificate of recognition for your contribution  
      5. Gain access to exclusive insights into BIE’s strategic direction and decision-making process.
  7. How will serving on the Student Advisory Board impact my academic responsibilities?
    1. We’ll schedule meetings with student success in mind and coordinate with families and schools to minimize conflicts. While we can’t guarantee every individual preference, we’ll do our best to accommodate most schedules.