How can I participate in the IECE?
Educators in the IECE are motivated, intellectually curious teachers who want to improve their content knowledge and have high expectations for their students. Educators must also commit to remaining in the classroom in their current district or school on the Native Nation for at least three years. Due to the workload, first-year teachers are not typically encouraged to apply for the IECE. If you meet these criteria, you may apply.
We are no longer accepting applications for this program at this time. Please check back periodically. You can also email us at nativeservingeducators@nau.edu if you would like to be added to our contact list.
Eligibility criteria
- Full-time teacher of 3-4 year olds
- Employed by a Head Start or other preschool serving primarily indigenous children
- Can drive to Flagstaff, Arizona for a 3-day residency in June
- Can obtain written approval by supervisor to teach the curriculum unit that you develop in the program
- Committed to culturally responsive teaching approaches
Expectations of accepted applicants
- Attend all virtual and in person meetings, including the final Showcase and Open House on December 2, 2023 in Flagstaff 2023 IECE schedule
- Submit all writing assignments on time, including the final complete curriculum unit that meets program specifications
- Maintain regular communication via email and/or phone with the program staff
Benefits of program participation
- Increased knowledge of best practices in culturally responsive early childhood curriculum development
- Completion of a published, self-authored curriculum unit for use in your classroom
- Access to colleague’s self-authored curriculum units for use in your classroom
- Networking and learning from other early childhood educators in Native-serving preschools
- A stipend provided upon program completion
- Graduate course credit available, for a fee