Native Education Programs: A Shift Without a Plan?

Tribal Leaders Upset Over Lack of Consultation

Tribal leaders are expressing their discontent with the Education Department's decision to transfer Native American education programs to other agencies without prior consultation. This move impacts schools and colleges serving Native students, with the programs being handed over to the Department of Labor and the Department of the Interior.

"This move doesn't help schools. It just shifts them to another system that's also not good."

Steve Sitting Bear, chairman of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, emphasized that the change creates more bureaucracy and uncertainty, which is detrimental to Native students.

Uncertainty Over Funding and Bureaucracy

Ahniwake Rose, president of the American Indian Higher Education Consortium, raised concerns about the funding for Tribal Colleges and Universities. Previously, they dealt with one department, but now they might have to navigate three.

"It would have been helpful to be part of the planning."

The Education Department has stated that they will engage with tribes and education partners to ensure Native students have the resources they need to succeed. However, tribal leaders argue that this consultation should have occurred before the decision was made.

Legal Duty and Uncertainty

The federal government has a legal obligation to support Native education, stemming from treaties and laws. However, tribal leaders claim this duty has been uncertain since the Trump administration reduced federal spending. They are urging the Education Department to send staff to the Bureau of Indian Education, as without them, the bureau cannot fulfill its responsibilities.

Calls for Transparency and Involvement

Many individuals in Indian Country agree that tribes should be involved in every step of the process. They are demanding that the Trump administration clarify how it will support Native education moving forward.