AINE Board

AINE MISSION STATEMENT

The Association of Interior Native Educators (AINE) was founded in the fall of 1995 to provide a voice for Interior Native Educators. AINE also serves in an advocacy role for educational issues affecting Alaskan Native people. AINE membership consists of certified Native professional educators, Native students in pursuit of higher education, Native professionals working in other areas, honorary members (Elders), associate members (representing regional school boards, community school committees, and other Native organizations) and affiliated members (non-Natives affiliated with Native education in general).

The goals of the Association are to:

• Utilize Alaskan Native elders as the foundation of Native education
• Encourage both certified and non-certified Alaskan Native educators to seek higher degrees
• Develop a format for Alaskan Natives involved in education to express their concerns on educational issues
• Create a network support system for Interior Natives involved in education
• Provide opportunities for Alaskan Native educators to meet other Native professionals in the field of education
• Incorporate the teaching of Native language and meaning into the curriculum
• Provide positive reinforcement for Native educators, parents, and students
• Foster sensitivity toward and encourage the teaching of our spiritual beliefs and customs
• Encourage Interior school districts to employ Native teachers and administrators.

2008–2009 AINE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Chair: Rebecca Gallen
Vice Chair: Gertie Esmailka
Secretary: Freda Beasley
Treasurer: Beverly Simon Kokrine
Members:
Ava Laughlin
Julie Walker
Mary Walker

Contact Information: info@ainealaska.org