Morongo Breaks Ground on New Tribal Elementary School

Located on Malki Road, the 24,000-square-foot campus will feature 10 classrooms, a multipurpose room, library, computer and media labs, and flexible learning spaces for art, music, and dance. For the first time, all Morongo students in Pre-K through 5th grade—who currently attend classes across three separate sites—will learn together on one cohesive campus designed to foster consistency and connection.

The Morongo School is the first fully accredited elementary school of its kind on an Indian reservation in the United States, recognized by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). The tuition-free school, funded entirely by the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, offers a rigorous college preparatory curriculum enhanced by leadership training, tribal language instruction, and lessons in Morongo history and culture taught by tribal elders.

“Education is key to sustaining our traditions and empowering our future,” said Morongo Tribal Chairman Charles Martin. “The new Morongo School will ensure our children receive a high-quality education with a strong tribal focus, preparing the next generation of Morongo leaders to thrive academically while remaining deeply connected to our heritage.”

Chairman Martin also commended the dedication and vision of Tribal Members serving on the Morongo Education Committee, whose volunteer leadership helped bring the project to life.

Originally opened in 2010 with 23 students in grades K–6, the Morongo School has since tripled in size while maintaining small class sizes of no more than 20 students per fully credentialed teacher. Each student benefits from an individualized education program designed to support their unique learning needs.

Construction of the new school began this month and is expected to be completed by late 2026, advancing Morongo’s enduring commitment to cultivating the next generation of tribal and civic leaders through education, culture, and empowerment.