The March meeting gathered input on how proposed changes to federal education funding may affect BIE students and their cultural ties to school programs.
This news brief is based on information provided in a press release from the Mandaree School District #36.
On January 23, President Donald Trump signed an Executive Order that could alter how Indigenous students access education funding. The order proposes allowing Bureau of Indian Education students to use federal funds for private, faith-based or public charter schools, expanding choices for families but raising concerns about the potential impacts on Native communities.
The U.S. Department of the Interior is currently reviewing how this change would be implemented. The BIE held online meetings to gather input from parents, tribal leaders and school staff on the proposal, with one meeting at Mandaree School on March 14. While the meeting has passed, parents and guardians can still submit written comments until March 21 by email or mail to the BIE’s consultation office in Washington, D.C.
This change is of particular concern to Indigenous communities, as it could significantly impact funding for BIE schools and the cultural programs they offer. Critics argue that shifting funding to private schools may weaken the connection between Native children and their cultural heritage, while others support the proposal, citing the need for more educational options.
The Department of the Interior has set a 90-day period to submit a plan, which will outline how the new policy could be implemented. The comments submitted by the March 21 deadline will help inform this plan.
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Location: Bismarck, North Dakota
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