American Indian Education Program - Littlefork-Big Falls School District

About

The program enables the district to support and enhance American Indian education initiatives to be culturally and academically tailored to American Indian students. It provides districts the opportunity to create comprehensive, sustainable American Indian education programs that serve the needs of all American Indian students from preschool through grade 12. Our vision is for American Indian students to be empowered to reach their full potential through educational experiences that honor and uplift their cultural identities. We strive to build meaningful relationships through family and student engagement within the school and community. To assist American Indian students in meeting the challenging academic standards.

To support ISD 362’s mission and assist in closing the achievement gap.
To supplement and enrich the academic programs with culturally specific learning resources for American Indian students.
To allow parents, community and students a meaningful role in program planning.

Purpose

The program strives to increase academic achievement, increase the graduation rate, and improve the school climate of American Indian students through culturally responsive instruction and respect for values and traditions. The program’s intentions are:

To assist American Indian students in meeting the challenging academic standards.
To support ISD 362’s mission and assist in closing the achievement gap.
To supplement and enrich the academic programs with culturally specific learning resources for American Indian students.
To allow parents, community and students a meaningful role in program planning.

American Indian Parent Advisory Council (AIPAC)

Minnesota Statutes, section 124D.78, requires that all Minnesota districts and tribal schools with 10 or more American Indian students have an American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (AIPAC). These committees serve in an advisory role to the district and help ensure that American Indian students are receiving culturally relevant and equitable educational opportunities. The committee is a valuable component in the pursuit of achievement and success for American Indian students districtwide.

AIPACs must be primarily parents or guardians of American Indian students within the district. Other eligible committee members include American Indian secondary students, American Indian district staff, and American Indian community members. Additionally, family members of American Indian students, such as grandparents or older siblings, are also eligible to serve on this committee. Non-Native district staff may participate in the AIPAC meetings, but they are not permitted to be voting committee members, and should not be included on the AIPAC roster.

The AIPAC would love to have more family and community voices on the committee as the role of the AIPAC is an important one, providing valuable input in assisting the school district in how best to support students. If you are the parent or relative of an American Indian student in School District 362 and are interested in serving on the committee or helping in our efforts and joining AIPAC, please contact Nell Barri, our American Indian Education Coordinator. You can also learn more about how the AIPAC functions by reading through our council.

More Information

Requirements for identifying as an American Indian Student

A student can identify as American Indian by self-attestation and by completing the school's Ethnic and Racial Demographic Designation Form, as the state definition requires maintaining cultural identification, tribal affiliation or community recognition. Verification of this information by the district is not required. Parents, guardians or the student can amend this information if their understanding of their racial identity changes.

Indian Education Aid Eligibility

A school district, charter school, or American Indian-controlled tribal contract or grant school enrolling at least 20 American Indian students on October 1 of the previous school year is eligible for Indian Education Aid funding.

Funding

How is the American Indian Education Program funded?

It is state and federally funded with special monies available to school districts that are dedicated to working with parents and families to meet the unique educational and cultural needs of American Indian students. School districts in Minnesota can apply for these both state and federal funds on an annual basis.

How are the American Indian Education funds used?

These funds are exclusively used to execute the American Indian Education plan and help fund an American Indian Education Liaison/Coordinator position that supports and benefits our students. Here are some high level areas in which the funding is used:

Support for Instruction We work with teachers and schools to develop culturally relevant and engaging curriculum resources for instruction and student support. We provide professional development opportunities for staff on supporting Native students, best practices, and culturally responsive teaching.
Support for Family Involvement We provide resources and opportunities throughout the year, connecting parents to educational opportunities and parent engagement events.
College Readiness We provide students with resources and opportunities for college planning and academic preparedness. We meet with students in groups and individually, facilitating college field trips, and assisting with financial aid and the college enrollment processes.
Advocacy for Families We are dedicated to offering support and guidance to ensure that every student feels heard and empowered in their educational journey.
Programs, Events & Clubs Native students may participate in Drum & Dance classes, field trips, cultural events, Native Student Groups, and student and family celebrations.