The Swinomish Education Department works respectfully and collaboratively in partnerships with local public schools, the Tribal Senate, other departments, parents/guardians, and students. These partnerships ensure our Native families and their students receive and maximize every educational opportunity offered to them. This mission and our support for lifelong student education can only be accomplished with active participation from the student and their family for academic success.
The comprehensive Swinomish Education Department serves the educational needs of our members in many different areas including the following:
Toddler and Preschool
Toddler and Preschool (1-5 years old) is a comprehensive and seamless child development program that is intended to increase the social and educational competence of children while also inviting families to become part of the learning experience too. The programs provide a safe and nurturing environment with learning incorporated into play. Services include early childhood development, literacy based curriculum, referral information and support for families, transportation and nutritious meals.
Para-pros Support and Advocacy
Nine highly qualified and educated tribal para-pros support and advocate for our native students at the La Conner School District. Each para-pro is assigned to support students within their grade band. Every para-pro is responsible for tracking each tribal student’s attendance, grades in the core classes of language arts, history, math, and science, and behavior of it inhibits the student’s academic success. Grades from the middle and high school are sent every two weeks, and every parent can access their student’s grades online through the LCSD website. Every para-pro is available after school to help with tutoring if a student needs additional homework support either at the school or study hall.
HS+/GED
Tribal community members seeking to complete their high school diploma or earn a GED can contact Sally Schroeder for registration assistance and tutoring. Study plans and locations can be individualized to meet the needs of the students.
Out of District Student Advocacy
Swinomish families of K-12 students who attend schools outside of the La Conner School District have a support advocate to help keep tribal youth connected to Swinomish Education celebrations and activities, and support families with educational concerns. If you have a Swinomish youth in K-12 schools outside of La Conner, please contact Sally Schroeder for further information.
Mastery-Based Learning Opportunities
La Conner High School students can earn high school credit for traditional learning done within their tribal community. Those regularly learning from pulling canoe, attending Canoe Journey, participating in Culture Night, learning cultural arts from elders, and a number of other learning experiences should contact Sally Schroeder to discuss a plan.
Swinomish Scholarships
Swinomish Scholarships are provided to its tribal members to help them attain higher level education degrees and certifications. Application forms may be picked up at the Social Services building or sent to you by contacting Swinomish Scholarship Manager Lisa James.
Other Scholarships
Please note that many of these scholarships close as early as March of the previous school year. Others, like Niche, Nitro, and OWL scholarships offer monthly scholarships throughout the year. Check with your church, community organizations (Rotary, Elks, etc.), or school for other possible scholarships.
- American Indian Endowed Scholarship
- American Indian College Fund/Native Forward
- EduMed - Medical/Healthcare
- John Oman - La Conner/Anacortes high school graduates
- Lorraine Loomis Memorial Scholarship
- Study.com
- Truman D. Picard - Natural Resources
- Washington Indian Gaming Association
- Washington State Opportunity Scholarship