Observed throughout the month of November, Native American Heritage Month is a time of celebration and reflection, dedicated to recognizing and honoring the rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and contributions of the Indigenous peoples of North America. This occasion is not just an opportunity for Indigenous communities to share their unique heritage, but also a chance for the broader society to gain a deeper understanding of their history and significance.

At NSBA, our National American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) Council of School Board Members promotes quality education for all students with emphasis on the challenges and successes of the American Indian and Alaska Native student.

NSBA’s 2023 Council of Urban Boards of Education (CUBE) Annual Conference featured remarks from Stephanie Thompson, president of the Farmington Municipal Schools School Board in New Mexico, and Western Regional Director of the AIAN Council.

In the video below, she shares her educational and career journey from high school student to school board president and advocate for students:

“I aspire for every student to see a reflection of themselves of me, to know that their voice is heard and that they matter. They belong. For our Native American students, my role represents a mirror, a reflection of their potential, of their history, their future. I am living proof to them that they can rise above challenges, that their voice matters, and that they belong in every room and in every seat where decisions are made.

“Diversity is our strength. And when we weave together the rich tapestry of our background, our authenticity, we create a more vibrant and more resilient fabric. Being here today reaffirms the importance of representation and the role of education in communities, all leading to boundless possibilities when we choose to celebrate every member of our society.”