Tribal Operations and the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe Education Department are pleased to welcome new staff members supporting the Native American Teacher Retention Initiative.

The Department welcomes the return of Imani Frye, who will serve as Administrative Assistant/Data Steward for the Native American Teacher Retention Initiative. Imani’s professional knowledge, technical skills, and positive demeanor have already proven to be a strong asset to the Department. She is the daughter of Karen Frye and Raymond Mattos and the granddaughter of Curtis Frye Sr. and Clarice Bearse Frye.

The Department also welcomes José Lugo as Program Manager of the Native American Teacher Retention Initiative. José brings a strong background in education and workforce development. He began his workforce journey at age 16 and later earned his associate degree, bachelor’s degree, and master’s degree. He has taught in K-12 schools and served for more than 10 years as adjunct faculty in higher education in the Colorado region.

José shared that one of his favorite professional memories is working with Chicano youth at the community college level, where student needs inspired him to advocate for students and challenge colonial education practices. He is grateful to continue that work with the NATRI cohort and the Tribal Education Department.

Please join us in welcoming Imani and José to their new roles and thanking them for their commitment to supporting Native educators and the future of our Tribal community.