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Offering a historical gallery, individual and group tours, educational programming, and a venue & kitchen available for the community, the Phoenix Indian School Visitor Center stands in recognition of the true board school experience and holds a legacy of healing for Indigenous individuals and communities who persevered here.
The Phoenix Indian Industrial School, later known as the Phoenix Indian School, was established in 1891 and operated as a Bureau of Indian Affairs boarding school for American Indian children until 1990. Originally part of a federal system of forced assimilation, it later became a traditional high school. Its history reflects both deep hardship and the enduring resilience of Native communities, as students ultimately began reclaiming their cultures and identities.
Located at Central Avenue and Indian School Road, much of the site was transferred to the City of Phoenix in 1990 and is now Steele Indian School Park. Three historic buildings were preserved and placed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the former grammar school building. Today, that building has been restored by Native American Connections and the Phoenix Indian Center as the Phoenix Indian School Visitor Center (PISVC).
Through tours, gatherings, and community events, the PISVC serves as a place for reflection, learning, and renewed connection, honoring the past while supporting future generations.
See our calendar of events for gatherings open to the public and scheduling availability for individual or group tours.
PISVC Hours of Operation
Monday - Friday | 8:00 am - 5:00 pm by appointment only
We're unable to accommodate same-day or walk-in visits.
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We tell the authentic story of the Indian Boarding School experience to educate and connect our community to indigenous culture, teaching the history of forced assimilation and the legacy of trauma endured by generations of Native peoples.
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When you provide a donation to the Phoenix Indian School Visitor Center, you support a legacy of healing and resilience.
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With 3 event spaces and a commercial kitchen, the Phoenix Indian School Visitor Center Venue & Kitchen is available for public and private events.
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The PISVC is looking to interview former students and employees of Phoenix Indian High School. If you attended the school or know of someone who did, please contact us at 602-648-9713 or by email PIVisitorCenter@nativeconnections.org if you'd like to share your story.
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Learn more about this important professional workshop exploring the legacies and contemporary impacts of Indian boarding schools, along with culturally responsive and place-based approaches to teaching and learning about this topic, taking place at this historic location summer 2024.
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Check out our calendar for upcoming events and dates available for tours or rentals. Connect with our team at 602-648-9713 or PIVisitorCenter@nativeconnections.org to confirm availability.
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