Anna Armstrong

Anna Armstrong

I am the Director of Education at Kalispel Tribe.  I have worked at The Camas Learning Center since 2005.   I love sharing the Kalispel history and I was also certified as a first level language teacher.

Currently, I am the vice chair of Washington State Native American Education Advisory Committee and the current President of Washington State Indian Education Association.

I am also involved in the Federally Recognized Tribal Extension Program (FRTP) Advisory board, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) board and the Panther Pride Coalition.

• Q: Tell us about your position with the Kalispel Tribe?
  I work with the higher education department and The Camas Learning Center staff to assist families and members access services that enhance their education journeys.  My dad tells me that I have the most important job, working with kids.  I also serve on the Cusick School Board as a Director.
• Q: What do you like most about working for Kalispel Tribe?
  Working for my tribe is the most rewarding job I’ve ever had.  I often talk about Chief Massaslaws desire to bring education to the tribe and I do all I can to continue his work.  It is just good to work to improve and help my community.  I like that I will benefit as an elder by creating such kind and intelligent youth to take care of me and my tribe one day
• Q: What advice would you have to a younger tribal members?
  Find a career that you enjoy.  I returned to college at the age of 35 with grown children who tell me that I gave them the drive to go to college and that is a great reason to go for your goals to show others the way!  If you have a job that you love doing, it is not work at all!
• Q: What is your favorite event that Kalispel Tribe puts on?
  Our annual Pow Wow because it is our celebration of our culture, our existence.  We almost voted ourselves out of existence, so it is good to come together and remember that we are still here, living and thriving.When I lived across the state, I looked forward to coming home and seeing family and friends at the Pow Wow.