Graduation Rates of
Native
Students
of student population
67% Native Students in Public Schools
53% Native Students in BIE Schools
81% National Average Graduation Rate
Whoever controls the education of our children controls our future.
Wilma Mankiller ,
Chief of the Cherokee Nation (1985-1995)
Our hope and dream is to teach our children about our history, culture and language, and to instill in them the word called hope. If they have that in their heart they’re going to survive any kind of impact no matter what it is… these kids become so proud of the language they want to come to school to participate in that.
Ivan M. Ivan ,
Tribal Chief, Akiak Regional Community (2011)
Few people who have handled Indian children in public schools, who have observed their remarkable talents in the arts, who have worked with university students of Indian blood, or who have sat in Indian councils, have any doubts as to the inherent ability, mental and otherwise, of the Indian people.
Meriam Report ,
Published in 1928
Kill the Indian, save the man.
Captain Richard Henry Pratt ,
Carlisle Indian Industrial School Founder (1829)
Only by complete isolation of the Indian child from his savage antecedents can he be satisfactorily educated.
John B. Riley ,
Indian School Superintendent (1886)
We provide American Indian students and educators with the resources needed to succeed.
Ahniwake Rose ,
Executive Director
Ensuring all Native students are able to attend quality, safe, and supportive schools is our mission.
Patricia Whitefoot ,
President
I am absolutely convinced we need to improve tribal control of education. Long term, it’s the best thing to do.
Arne Duncan ,
Former Secretary of Education
Federally Recognized Tribes
Native Students
NIEA Members
National Organization
What We Do
The National Indian Education Association (NIEA) was formed by Native educators in 1969 to encourage a national discourse on Native education. For 47 years, NIEA has hosted an annual convention to provide a forum for collaboration.
NIEA adheres to the organization’s founding principles-
- to bring Native educators together to explore ways to improve schools and the education of Native children;
- to promote the maintenance and continued development of Native languages and cultures;
- and to develop and implement strategies for influencing local, state, and federal policy and policymakers.
How you can help
Join Our Network
Our students need access to resources and information. If you have knowledge, skills, or resources you think may be helpful, join NIEA as a partner.
Attend Convention
NIEA Convention is the only national convention dedicated to Native education. Whether you’re a student or educator, we all have a lot to learn. Attend Convention to network, learn, and help guide Native education.
NIEA Office
Phone: (202) 544-7290
Fax: (202) 544-7293
1514 P St NW
Suite B
Washington DC , US 20005
NIEA@niea.org