Kenneth St. Pierre

Kenneth is an Indigenous educational leader and scholar with over a decade of experience across tribally controlled schools and public education systems. An enrolled citizen of the Ihanktonwan (Yankton Sioux Tribe), his practices are relational, community-centered approach to leadership grounded in Indigenous ways of knowing, responsibility, and reciprocity. Kenneth has served in roles including Superintendent/Principal of Kickapoo Nation School, Native American Student Services Coordinator for Lawrence Public Schools, and educator in Native American Studies, Social Studies, and Tribal Government. His leadership centers on strengthening relationships among schools, families, tribal nations, and state systems while advancing culturally sustaining, sovereignty-affirming educational practices.

While his leadership journey includes service in the U.S. Navy and Army National Guard, his practice is firmly rooted in Indigenous educational leadership and lived experiences. His military experience contributes skills in organization and teamwork which he has intentionally reshaped through Indigenous values of relational accountability and collective responsibility. Kenneth is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at the University of Washington Tacoma in partnership with the Muckleshoot Tribe, with an anticipated completion in 2026. His academic and professional focus includes Indigenous educational leadership, Title VI and Johnson O’Malley program administration, policy and systems change, and professional development that supports educators in serving Indigenous students, families, and tribal nations.