Oceti Sakowin Community Based Schools

Educators and Indigenous groups in South Dakota are fighting to better represent Native American history, culture, and values in the state’s education systems through teacher training, immersion schools, and other programs.

Despite the influence of the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota peoples in South Dakota, the state’s history of forced assimilation, failed legislation efforts, and a lack of teacher confidence have limited the presence of Indigenous culture and values in its education systems.

Senate lawmakers are passing a bill that creates and funds community-based schools centered on Native American cultural curriculum.A similar proposal passed the chamber two years ago. Supporters hope this year is different.

A bill allowing for the creation of community-based schools centered on Native American cultural curriculum passes the Senate unanimously.Senate Bill 66…