Ute Tribe Education Department 

The Ute Tribe Education Department was originally established in 1951 to facilitate the transfer of Ute Indian students from the Uintah Boarding School at Whiterocks, Utah to local public schools.  The Ute Education Department has steadily evolved and expanded toward providing more educational services to local Native Americans, Tribal members and those non-members who are eligible for federally funded Indian education programs.  In recent years, the Ute Education Department, guided by the Education Board, has increased the scope of the services they provide to the community.  Presently, thirty-six employees work in the various areas and programs. 

The Education Department has set forth the following philosophy and mission statements:

Philosophy

The Ute Tribe Education Department has been established to create a holistic atmosphere of educational opportunities that are individually appropriate and assist the individual to realize their maximum learning potential in maintaining dignity and self-worth throughout their lives.  Through education, each individual will learn skills which will ensure their right: to make choices; to exercise free will; and to initiate and sustain self-sufficiency.  Education will enable them to make individual choices for the preservation of one’s harmony and balance in the Indian and non-Indian world.

Mission

The Education Department exists to present educational alternatives to the Ute tribal members of all ages.  We believe that it is possible for each individual to maximize their potential while being productive contributors to Tribal tradition and customs.  The development of people through guidance, career opportunities, and support services will enable tribal members to understand, appreciate and excel in business, industry, or a career of their choice.  The protection and development of all Ute people and the preservation of all natural resources will be our ultimate mission.