The Montana Indian Education Association is wrapping up its 24th annual conference in Helena amid heightened focus on the state's Indian education requirements.

The Indian Education for All Act was a major focus of the conference, which drew 400 registrants. Montana's constitution requires public schools to teach about Indian culture and history but no money has been provided.

About 200 people attended a rally at the state capitol on Monday to support the act. Indian educators proposed $23.1 million to carry out the mandate but the request was cut down to $7.5 million, then to $1.4 million, then back up to $6.1 million before being rejected entirely last week.

Separately, Gov. Brian Schweitzer (D) has earmarked $2 million over two years for the act.

Get the Story:
Law tops Indian ed agenda (The Missoulian 4/5)

Relevant Links:
Montana Indian Education Association - http://www.mtiea.org
Montana Office of Public Instruction - http://www.opi.state.mt.us

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