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SFIS Broadband - Pueblo Education Network (PEN)

The Santa Fe Indian School (SFIS) Broadband Network is built on the foundation of the Pueblo Education Network (PEN) and the SFIS Wide Area Network (WAN) was created to ensure that Tribal communities have reliable, sovereign, and future-proof digital infrastructure that supports education, economic opportunity, community well-being.
 
The Broadband development initiatives have secured substantial funding from two primary sources: the NTIA Tribal Broadband Connectivity Program, which awarded roughly $57 million, and the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department, contributing approximately $5 million. Together, these investments total $62 million supporting expanded digital infrastructure and connectivity for tribal communities.
 
 We’re bringing fast and reliable connectivity that will:
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Connect Tribal Communities
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Support Students & Families
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Enable Digital Sovereignty
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Provide Long-Term Infrastructure
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Map

This map depicts the SFIS Broadband fiber and connectivity infrastructure across New Mexico, which includes:

  • NTIA funded Pueblo Education Network (PEN) middle-mile fiber routes
  • NM Indian Affairs Department funded SFIS Wide Area Network (PEN)
  • Interconnection Points
  • Service Areas

The network is designed to provide scalable, high-capacity transport, enable redundancy and regional interconnection.

This infrastructure advances Tribally led broadband development alignment with federal and state broadband investment programs.

 

Impact

The SFIS PEN Broadband Network will create transformational, long-term benefits for Native American communities, students, and future generations across New Mexico. Tribes will gain support for digital sovereignty by enabling communities to govern their own connectivity and reduce reliance on outside internet providers that may not prioritize tribal and rural needs.

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Network Access for Students

Providing students with network access for education programs, assignments, tutoring, and uninterrupted online learning.

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Tribal Digital Sovereignty

Authority over data and communications, independence from outside providers and digital protection.

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Economic Development

Development through business growth, e-commerce, innovation and attracting new investments and partnerships.

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Healthcare & Public Service Access

Access to telehealth appointments, mental healthcare, distance learning, and emergency communications.

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Unified Pueblo Network

Drive regional collaboration by sharing resources, training, and IT support.

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Culture Preservation

Digital archiving of stories, histories, and community knowledge on Tribally controlled online platforms.

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Workforce Development

Programs, online job training, remote and hybrid work opportunities and more.

Progress Updates

SFIS is working closely with federal, state, local and Tribal authorities to secure required Rights-of-Ways (ROW) and environmental clearances across multiple jurisdictions. This process has included extensive coordination, cultural and environmental review, and compliance with applicable laws and regulations. 


Upon completion, the SFIS Broadband Network will evolve into the Pueblo Education Network, serving as the unified, Tribally centered broadband system designed to meet long-term educational and community connectivity needs.

Project Phases

 

About the Director

 

MICHAEL "MANNY" MANUELITO
Pueblo of Laguna
Director of Broadband
 

Michael Manuelito is a strategic leader in tribal broadband development, dedicated to expanding connectivity and digital sovereignty for Pueblo and Tribal communities. With expertise in infrastructure planning funding strategies, and governance models, he helps Tribes build sustainable broadband systems that support education, economic growth, and cultural values. Manny has secured over $62 million in funding for broadband initiatives and collaborated with Tribal communities nationwide to advance self-determined infrastructure. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering, a PMP Certification, and is pursuing an MBA at the University of New Mexico.

Contact

For concerns or questions, contact Michael Manuelito at mkmanuelito@sfis.k12.nm.us.