IGNITE Worldwide Celebrates First Events in Tribal School Expansion

First IGNITE Program Events in Tribal Schools

On September 9th, IGNITE Worldwide marked an exciting milestone in its mission to expand access to STEM exploration for girls and gender-diverse youth with a series of IGNITE Panel Events at Paschal Sherman Indian School in Washington. This was IGNITE’s first collaboration with tribal schools, reaching students across grades K-9 with inspiring panels led by professionals from diverse industries.

At these events, students explored the careers of panelists in aerospace, engineering, graphic design, higher education, and the skilled trades. They asked insightful questions, engaged with hands-on examples, and left with a renewed sense of curiosity about their futures.

Continued Success of the IGNITE Program in Tribal Schools

Since IGNITE’s initial events with Paschal Sherman Indian School, we have celebrated additional expansion into Muckleshoot Tribal School, hosting IGNITE Panels with other event types scheduled for later in the school year.

Paschal Scherman Indian School has also participated in IGNITE Field Trips to Stoke Space and Chelan County PUD.

Why This Work Matters

Tribal schools play a critical role in serving Indigenous communities, yet access to STEM career pathways remains limited for Native youth. In Washington, initiatives like IGNITE Worldwide’s tribal school expansion are essential to breaking down barriers and creating opportunities for students to see themselves in careers they may not have imagined possible. By connecting students with relatable role models and introducing pathways to technical and creative professions, IGNITE ensures every student—no matter where they live—has the support they need to pursue their dreams.

The success of these initial events highlights the power of showing students the possibilities that lie ahead. Educators and panelists alike shared how meaningful it was to witness students’ curiosity sparked, with follow-up events already planned to build on this momentum.

Get Involved

IGNITE Worldwide’s tribal school expansion is just getting started—and we need your help to keep this momentum going. Whether you’re an individual or organization, your partnership can make a lasting impact. Join us as a strategic partner to help bring career exploration and opportunities to more girls and gender-diverse students in tribal schools.

Together, we can ensure that every IGNITE Student has the chance to dream big and achieve their potential. Reach out to learn more about how you can support this important work!

About IGNITE Worldwide
IGNITE Worldwide is a 501(c)3 nonprofit STEM education organization that aims to change gender and racial equity in STEM permanently and systematically. We work directly with teachers during the school day to provide programming that promotes gender equity and representation in STEM academics and careers. Through our award-winning program, IGNITE provides engaging, hands-on events that connect students with STEM professionals from industry leaders from around the world. Learn more at www.igniteworldwide.org.