Educators say standardized tests should have questions on Indians
By The Associated Press
BOZEMAN -- If Montana schools truly plan to teach students about the state's American Indians, their standardized tests should include questions about Indians, an official with the state Office of Public Instruction and others said Saturday.
"Testing is driving our system," Mike Jetty, Indian education specialist with the OPI, said during a daylong Native Nexus conference at Montana State University.
Standardized math and reading tests that are specially tailored to Montana schools are administered to all students in fourth, eighth and 10th grades. A third test, on science, is being developed.
The science test should contain at least one question that relates to American Indians, said Robin Arnold, a seventh-grade science teacher at Sacajawea Middle School in Bozeman. The question could be on native versus invasive plants or water and land resources, Arnold said.
Jetty urged educators to send such comments to the OPI, which is still considering the new science standards.
He added that the OPI is working to implement Indian Education for All, a 1999 legislative mandate, on three fronts: developing sample lessons, creating training for teachers and investigating ways to close the achievement gap between Indian and white students. Indian Education for All requires that all public school students -- not just American Indians -- be taught about the cultural heritage of the state's Indian tribes.
"No Child Left Behind is a worthy concept," Jetty said. "In Montana, who's consistently left behind? Indian students."
He quoted another Indian educator, saying, "In regards to Indian education, there's been much thunder, little rain."
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Indian educator
wrote on
April 16, 2006 7:37 AM "Much thunder, little rain" good comment, but as an educator on a reservation, (state run school) I see a GREAT need to educate the parents before they send their children to school. Educate them on respect, and following the rules, how not to be rude. These children come to school and have no respect for anyone. Their teachers, the building, other peoples belongs, they do not respect any of these. Not all of them are like this a few have been taught it is not right to be disrespectful to adults, or that it is wrong to swear, or if something does not belong to you, you leave your hands off it. I have met many wonderful children and parents teaching, and those that have instilled these in their children will be the ones that lead a fruitful life. Please EVERYONE, EVERY RACE, instill these virtues in your children. Thank you
Neutral Blackfeet
wrote on
April 16, 2006 8:07 AM I truly hope this is a new beginning in Montana education for all.That the State of Montana can be culturally sensitive to minorities by implement fair testing of all students.
Annie
wrote on
April 16, 2006 2:09 PM Indian educator, well said.
Respect other peoples property no matter where it is at.
It all starts with knowing where your children are at, all times of the day and night.
Mary Tall Bull
wrote on
April 16, 2006 3:46 PM Indian educator, I hope your comments about "parents being educated in regards to rules and respect is meant for all and not just the Native people. In 11 years working @ three different school district(at the same time)where caucasian IS the majority here...then moving on up to run a community program for youth? I can honestly say native parents were always eager and willing volunteers. I don't know what school you come from but here Indian parents ARE helpful,honest, willing and respectful as are their children. Sure we may have a bad apple now and then...but so do children of other ethnic societies.
As a Home/School liaison, tutor and counselor at the 3 schools I worked and learned about all nationalities and can proudly say native people are interested in their children's education and well being. If all educators would keep and open mind and give our children a fair and equal chance as the rest of you then perhaps we can all benefit in the long run. Let us not forget as educators we are the children's role models and one day those children will be the educators and leaders of tomorrow.
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