DPA ESSA Newsletter, Feb 2026
February 2026
Title II, Part A
Building the Foundation for Transformational School Leadership: A Powerful Start to 2026
From January 13–15, 2026, school leaders and improvement teams gathered in Albuquerque, NM, for an intensive three-day training designed to strengthen leadership practices and accelerate school improvement. "Building the Foundation for Transformational School Leadership” offered more than a typical training and gave attendees a collaborative experience that united voices across the Bureau of Indian Education system.
The agenda featured dynamic sessions such as "Lead with Purpose: Unlocking Your 'Why,'" "Transform the Classroom: Leading Instruction That Accelerates Learning," and "From Numbers to Narratives: Making Sense of Trends." Participants explored strategies to close achievement gaps, design sustainable systems of support, and align needs assessments with the BIE One Plan. Each day built on the previous, moving from vision-setting and instructional leadership to accountability frameworks, targeted support strategies, and data-driven decision-making.
21st Century Community Learning Centers
The BIE’s Title IV, Part B Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers program is progressing through the first year of our new five‑year cohort, with many sites preparing to continue programming through Spring Break and into the summer months. To further strengthen program implementation, this month’s focus is on key resources that support BIE schools in operating at their highest levels of efficiency and effectiveness.
Below are several helpful reference sites for program leaders and staff:
- U.S. Dept of Education’s 21st Century Informational Site: A central hub for federal 21st CCLC grant information, updates, and national program materials
- ESEA Title IV, Part B- 21st Century Reference Guide (Full Statute Text): Provides the complete federal legislation authorizing the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers program
- 21st Century Community Learning Centers Non-Regulatory Guidance: A valuable resource for addressing common questions from educational agencies and supports the application, implementation, and management of 21st CCLC grants while helping states and schools align with federal requirements
- 21st Century National Technical Assistance Center: NTAC offers a wide range of tools and resources for 21st CCLC professionals, including planning and implementation toolkits, academic enrichment activities, summer learning supports, and more.
Awarded schools are encouraged to check in on ongoing correspondence from 21st CCLC State Coordinator, Sarah Price (sarah.price@bie.edu) for updates, including webinar announcements, data reporting deadlines, and additional program guidance. Schools are also welcome to reach out to Sarah directly with any questions or for further clarification regarding program requirements and resources.
