American Indian Students in “Culture Blind” Schools

Donna Martinez 
(College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Ethnic Studies, University of Colorado Denver, USA)

Abstract: American Indians have the lowest educational attainment rates of any group in the United States. Researchers have attributed this educational disparity gap to the lack of cultural relevance in mainstream educational settings. American Indian students perceive a cultural bias against them in both classroom curriculum and pedagogical practices. While some states have passed legislation to support teaching about American Indian history and cultures, no funding to support culturally relevant curriculum changes or teacher training accompany these measures. Successful American Indian college students learn how to develop a strong academic identity, while retaining strong cultural ties. A continuing educational gap in access to higher education, in a knowledge-based economy, affects the socio-economic status of families and tribes. Incorporating tribal values into mainstream schools would not only enhance educational connections for American Indian students, but can also improve the learning environment for all students.

Key words: American Indian education, educational disparity, boarding schools, culture and cognition