LCOOU to Host Ozhitamaadizoyang Teachers and Admin of Indigenous Pupils Professional Development
(Lac Courte Oreilles) – May 4, 2026 – Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University (LCOOU) will host the Ozhitamaadizoyang Teachers and Administrators of Indigenous Pupils Professional Development event on Saturday, May 23, 2026, at its campus. This initiative supports LCOOU’s ongoing commitment to retaining Native American teachers by providing targeted professional development for educators and administrators who serve Indigenous students.
The event is part of a broader retention strategy designed to support graduates of LCOOU’s education programs as they transition into successful careers in the field. By strengthening the professional networks and knowledge base of educators working with Indigenous students, LCOOU aims to enhance both teacher retention and student success.
LCOOU is honored to welcome Jason Dropik, Executive Director of the National Indian Education Association, as a featured speaker. Mr. Dropik will address federal obligations related to the inclusion of Indigenous language and culture in K–12 education. He has recently engaged with the U.S. Department of Education to advocate for the appropriate application of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies, ensuring they are not misapplied to Indigenous educators, administrators, or students. His presentation will provide important context regarding the political status of federally recognized tribes and the implications of treaty rights for educational policy and practice.
The second featured presenter, Dr. Giniw Giizhig, serves as Director of Indian Education and Principal on Special Assignment with Red Lake Public Schools. A recognized leader in Ojibwe language revitalization and culturally sustaining education, Dr. Giizhig will share insights from his work supporting Indigenous language and culture within school systems. His session will focus on effective administrative leadership and instructional practices that promote culturally grounded education.
Administrators and teachers who work with Indigenous students are encouraged to attend. Students currently enrolled in Early Childhood Education (ECE) and Education (EDU) programs are also welcome to participate as observers.
For more information about the Ozhitamaadizoyang program or to register, please contact the LCOOU Admissions Office at 715-634-4790 or visit www.lco.edu/reg.
About Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University
The Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University’s mission is to provide Anishinaabe communities with post-secondary and continuing education while advancing the language, culture, and history of the Ojibwe.
Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe University (LCOOU) is a non-profit Ojibwe tribal university celebrating 40 years of education in 2022. We are an open-door institution that is proud to serve Native American students. LCOOC welcomes non-native students and celebrates a diverse student population at all of our locations.
Learn more at http://lco.edu