Image Source: Montana Free Press
Two new Montana laws championed by Sen. Jonathan Windy Boy strengthen the state’s support for Native American education and language revitalization, reinforcing constitutional commitments under Article X.
Indian Education for All (IEFA)
Background:
IEFA, enacted in 1999, mandates K-12 public schools to teach Native American history and culture. Since 2007, about $3.5 million has been allocated annually to support it.
Problems:
A 2021 lawsuit alleged misuse of IEFA funds by schools and lack of financial accountability.
New Law (SB 181):
Requires school districts to submit detailed annual reports on IEFA spending.
Authorizes the Office of Public Instruction (OPI) to reduce funding for noncompliant schools.
Mandates public reporting and links IEFA compliance to school accreditation.
Enhances tribal consultation and creates an online feedback portal.
Native Language Revitalization (MILP)
Background:
Established in 2013, MILP supports tribal efforts to preserve endangered Native languages with a biennial $750,000 budget.
New Law (SB 182):
Grants tribes flexibility to partner with school districts (not a requirement).
Encourages use of funds for staff development and educational collaborations.
Requires preservation of language materials at the Montana Historical Society.
Both laws aim to improve oversight, elevate tribal leadership, and ensure resources directly support Native cultural and linguistic preservation. Windy Boy sees these as steps toward stronger integration of Native education into Montana’s school system, with future goals including statewide Native language curricula.
Learn more: https://ictnews.org/news/new-laws-aim-to-strengthen-indigenous-education-and-language-revitalization-efforts-#:~:text=Indian%20Caucus%20director)-,The%20laws%20enact%20measures%20to%20improve%20financial%20accountability%20and%20elevate,in%20Indian%20Education%20For%20All.&text=Two%20bills%20aimed%20at%20strengthening,language%20revitalization%20recently%20became%20law