Native American Alaska Native Families & Community

Meet our newest co-leader, Johannah Hafner!

Johannah Hafner

I’m Johannah Hafner! I am Assiniboine Nakota on my father’s side. European descent on my mother’s. I’m a mother of three and have been married for 14 years. We’ve been in this district for 5 years and when we moved during COVID. I was so grateful for the Title VI Coordinator who reached out and personally helped us get connected to the community. Our family does a lot to stay connected to culture, be a part of our community, and stay balanced. I work as a barista and then am able to be home with our kids every afternoon & evening. We all love reading, being outside, dancing, music, tradition, food and gathering with friends and family. 

Being on the PAC Board is really exciting as I’ve been in the PAC for 5 years and have seen how it’s changed, what’s been good for our families and students and where we can improve. I’m excited for what we can do to grow our community and build for the families we have in our district. I have kids from preschool to almost middle school so we’ll be in this district for a lot more years and I’m committed to their education coinciding with a continued growth in our culture as well as the other Native students in the area. 

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On October 15th, three new Advisory Board members were elected. Maria Oliva is our returning board member. 

Maria Oliva

My name is Maria Oliva.  I  am an enrolled member of the Mandan, Hidatsa, Arikara nation and also Standing Rock. My son goes to Quatama Elementary school.

I enjoy cooking, arts and crafts, camping and walks with my family.

I am joining the AI/AN committee because I believe we need to have a committee that wants to keep this program going not just for our kids but for the future as well. I'm excited to be able to work together with others that want to have fun, engaging, educational and memorable experiences for our youth.

Vernon Kaye

Ya’ah’t’eeh (greetings) My name is Vernon Kaye and I am a member of the Dine’ tribe, also known as Navajo Nation. I don't have many hobbies currently, but I do love to dance, sing and write. I am also a person who loves to engage in stimulating conversations. I’m always willing to try something new. The reason I chose to attend PAC was on the basis of having some Native American input on events that could benefit anyone wanting to know about Indigenous peoples. I felt being a part of a leadership role would be a great way to have those ideas heard at the very least.

Jenny Sanchez

ɬaxayam (Hello) My name is Jenny Sánchez. I am a member of the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, a descendant of the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, and Salish Tribe. In my spare time, I create beadwork, travel to various Native American events, and provide education about Native American culture. I’m joining the AI/AN Committee because I believe it’s important to have a strong voice at the table—one that will advocate for our Native students, families, and staff within HSD. I bring firsthand knowledge of how the Title VI program works, having been a Title VI student myself. I now lead a similar program in another district, and I believe it’s incredibly important for us to work together as a community to strengthen and grow this program. I’m excited to collaborate with everyone and to bring knowledge, support, and cultural understanding to our Hillsboro School District and community.

Christine Vasconcellos

I am Diné (Navajo) and Native Hawaiian. I’m a descendant of one of the first Navajo Code Talkers in WW2, Howard Billiman Jr., my grandfather.  I'm a flight attendant, Girl Scout Leader, single mother of a beautiful daughter and a Dalmatian named Priscilla. I love volunteering in the community. If there is an opportunity to bring children together, I'm probably signing up for it. I want to provide as many experiences for all kids as possible, I think it's important for their growth. I’m resourceful and love teaching others how to use those resources and make it beneficial to their lives. I grew up honoring the four sacred mountains and dancing in shows for children just like myself. I’m proud of my culture and heritage that my ancestors have bestowed upon me and now their great grandchild. I’m currently studying the Diné language so I can be fluent just like Shima (my mother). 

I really wanted to be involved in the Parent Advisory Committee (PAC) because native children need us. They need someone who knows what it's like to walk into a school and feel different. I want to be a part of a change in our community to help all children feel welcomed.