Examining The Challenges Facing Native American Schools PDF Download

This document records testimony from a hearing held on April 22, 2015 on the topic of challenges that are faced by Native American schools. Nearly a century ago the Federal Government made a promise to deliver to Native American children a quality education that just doesn't teach math and science, but preserves their customs and culture. Unfortunately, the Federal Government is failing to keep its promise to these vulnerable children. Too many schools lack adequate infrastructure and educational resources, compromising the health, safety, and future postsecondary and professional opportunities of the children they are supposed to be serving. Despite the many obstacles that stand in the way of these students and educators, their resiliency and determination to create better lives for themselves is nothing short of inspiring. They understand the importance of an education and the opportunities it will afford them. Statement were presented by: (1) Honorable Todd Rokita, Chairman, Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education, U.S. House of Representatives; and (2) Honorable Marcia Fudge, Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education, U.S. House of Representatives. Statement of Witnesses were presented by: (1) Jill Burcum, Editorial Writer Minneapolis Star Tribune, Minneapolis, MN; (2) Brian Cladoosby, President, National Congress of American Indians, Embassy of Tribal Nations, Washington, DC; (3) Roman Nose, Executive Director, Tribal Education Departments National Assembly, Boulder, CO; and (4) Melissa Emrey-Arras, Director, Education, Workforce and Income Security Issues, U.S. Government Accountability Office, Boston, MA. Additional submissions included: (1) Melissa Emrey-Arras: statement visuals; (2) Marcia L. Fudge: a prepared statement of Honorable Rick Nolan, a Representative in Congress from the State of Minnesota; and (3) Quinton Roman Nose: prepared statement.