The Mohegan Tribe Invests in Local Schools to Strengthen Cultural Understanding

Jan 8, 2026

Challenge grant recipients will receive funding to develop Native American curriculum

Uncasville, CT — The Mohegan Tribe announced the 2026 recipients of the Mohegan Challenge Grant, an initiative designed to support Connecticut educators in developing curriculum that enhances Native American studies. A total of 19 schools applied for the grant, with five winners and five honorees selected to receive funding. Collectively, these grants will support educational initiatives, benefiting nearly 500 students across the state this year alone.

First established in 2003, the Mohegan Challenge Grant program invites elementary, middle, and high school educators across Connecticut to submit proposals outlining how they plan to expand instruction related to Native American history, culture, Tribal government, and sovereignty. This competitive grant program provides schools with the tools and resources to introduce new curriculum, strengthen existing lessons, and create meaningful learning opportunities for students.

Grant recipients receive funding to help bring their proposed projects to life, with funding available for both awardees and runners-up. In addition to financial support, the Tribe’s Cultural and Community Programs department also provides a one-day instructional program at the selected schools. The Tribe also hosts the grant recipients for an expense-paid field trip to the Mohegan Tribe’s Tantaquidgeon Museum, the oldest Native American–owned and operated museum in the country.

Helping educators bring Native voices, stories, and perspectives into their classrooms deepens understanding for students throughout the state,” said Beth Regan, Chairwoman of the Mohegan Council of Elders. “These grants encourage thoughtful teaching and allow young people to build a stronger connection to the history and ongoing presence of Tribal Nations in Connecticut. We are proud to support the educators who are doing this important work.”

The Challenge Grant program is one part of the Tribe’s broader commitment to strengthening cross-cultural understanding and its ongoing investment in supporting educators across Connecticut.

Through the Educator Project, hosted by the Mohegan Tribe’s Curriculum department, the Tribe offers a collection of free curriculum tools and interactive materials designed to support Native American studies instruction. 

Additionally, for more than a decade, the Mohegan Tribe has been proud to recognize the tireless work of our state educators by sponsoring the Connecticut Teacher of the Year program, an opportunity to lift up excellence in the classroom and leadership in school communities.

2026 Mohegan Challenge Grant Recipients:

Mohegan Challenge Grant Award Winners

  • Pond Hill Elementary School, Wallingford
  • Windsor Locks Middle School, Windsor Locks
  • Lebanon Middle School, Lebanon
  • Blackham School, Bridgeport
  • EASTCONN Clinical Developmental and Therapeutic Program, Willimantic

Mohegan Challenge Grant Honorees

  • Trinity Academy, Hartford
  • High Horizons Magnet School, Bridgeport
  • Franklin Elementary School, Franklin
  • Ridge Hill School, Hamden
  • Dr. Charles E. Murphy School, Montville

For educators interested in applying for the 2027 Mohegan Challenge Grant, the application process will open in early October 2026. To learn more, please visit: https://www.mohegan.nsn.us/resources/educational-resources/challenge-grant.