Serving BIE Students, Staff and Communities

BIE school leaders play pivotal roles as instructional and operational leaders in both Bureau Operated and Tribally Controlled Schools. They oversee academic programs, staff performance, budgets, and safety protocols while fostering relationships with tribal leaders, families, and community members. Central to their role is upholding the BIE’s Strategic Direction. Principals use tools such as the Principal’s Playbook and a tiered leadership support system to align school priorities with the agency’s goals for student success, cultural identity, wellness, and operational excellence. By setting measurable targets, tracking progress in academics, graduation rates, and attendance, and integrating Native language and culture into curricula, these leaders ensure that schools remain accountable to BIE’s vision and serve as responsive centers of learning. Their efforts strengthen tribal sovereignty and community engagement, ultimately providing a supportive environment so BIE students thrive academically, culturally, and personally.

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Principal's Playbook

The Principal's Playbook is an all-in-one digital booklet designed to provide principals at BIE-funded schools with up-to-date information to help them operate their schools. It includes topics school leaders encounter regularly, along with calendars, descriptors, and web links to resources.

The Principal's Playbook is organized into four areas:

  • Human Resources
  • Academics
  • EdFacts
  • Community and Tribal Relations

Read or download the 2026-2027 Principal's Playbook.

Resources

BIE's Division of Performance and Accountability provides school leaders and educators with information, resources and assistance to their schools.

Access: 

Technical Assistance

ESSA and IDEA Monthly Technical Assistance Webinars

The BIE Division of Performance and Accountability Supplemental Education Programs and IDEA is dedicated to improving student results. The DPA Unit (SEP & IDEA) will host monthly technical assistance webinars to ADDs, EPAs, ERC Staff and School Administrators/Staff to provide updated information regarding program implementation and program updates. All TA webinar invitations provide the purpose of the webinars and targeted audiences to increase communication and collaboration.

BIE One Plan Resources

TOPIC SLIDE DECK LINK RECORDING
Conducting a Comprehensive Needs Assessment Read 2024-2025 Document Watch Video
Problem Statements and Conducting a Root Cause Analysis Read Document Watch Video
Writing Effective SMART Goals Read 2024-2025 Document Watch Video
Selecting Evidence-Based Strategies Read Document Watch Video
Title Programs Budget Development N/A Watch Video
20/20 Rule for Title IV-A Read Document Watch Video
Required School Documents for the Every Student Succeeds Act Read Document Watch Video