Program details: The Muckleshoot Tribal College’s Early Childhood Education cohort was designed to provide tribal members, MIT employees, and community members a supportive environment to successfully complete their Washington State Initial Certificate. A prerequisite for employment with the tribe as an Instructional Assistant I, many students were struggling to succeed in online and evening classes at Green River College. MTC leaders Dr. Denise Bill and Madrienne White, ECE Director Charlene Burgess, and partners like Leslie Kessler and Joanne Garrott at Green River College established an in-person, place-based cohort with student supports including culturally responsive openings, light continental breakfast, and academic/enrollment support. The supportive nature of this cohort has meant 11 students achieved their Initial Certificate in the 2024-2025 school year, and 12 students earned their Initial Certificate in the 2025-2026 school year.