Indian Education for All

What is Indian Education for All?

In 1972, Montana rewrote the State Constitution. Within Article X, Section 1, Subsection 2, it is written…

     “The state recognizes the distinct and unique cultural heritage of the American Indians and is committed in its educational goals to the preservation of their cultural integrity.”

Out of 100 delegates, there were no American Indians representatives among them. Yet the 1972 delegates recognized the importance of ALL Montanans learning about the culture and history of our state’s first peoples. 

In 1999, Montana State Law MCA 20-1-501, formally known as Indian Education for All was passed. This law highlights three important elements:

     1. Every Montanan, whether Indian or non-Indian, learn about American Indian peoples in a culturally     
       responsive manner.

     2. Educational Agencies work in partnership with Montana tribes to implement Indian Education for All.

     3. All school personnel should have an understanding of Indian tribes so that they may relate more effectively 
       with Indian students and parents.

In 2005, the Montana Legislature approved Senate Bill 152, setting forth a definition of a quality education for Montana students. Montana State Law MCA 20-9-309, section 2, outlines 8 components that define a quality education. Indian Education for All is one of the 8 components.