Keith Moore knows he doesn't have all the answers but as the state of South Dakota's new Indian education coordinator, he says he is ready to tackle high-drop out rates, poverty and other problems facing Indian students.

Moore, a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe, started his job on July 1. He has been meeting with tribal leaders and educators to find out their concerns. He hopes to strengthen relationships with tribes and the Bureau of Indian Affairs.

Moore is the state's first Indian education coordinator, a position that was created by Gov. Mike Rounds (R) after discussions with tribes. The position is within the state Department of Education.

Between 10 percent and 12 percent of children in South Dakota are Indian, according to the department. In the public school system, 10.8 percent of the student population is Indian.

Get the Story:
Indian education coordinator bridges cultures (The Rapid City Journal 9/5)

Relevant Links:
South Dakota Department of Education - http://www.state.sd.us/deca

Related Stories:
South Dakota holds Indian Education summit (04/26)
South Dakota gets new Indian education coordinator (02/14)
South Dakota governor seeks reconciliation at summit (04/21)
South Dakota hosts first Indian education summit (4/20)
S.D. advisory council to study Indian education (04/02)