Education
Arkansas schools asked to verify Indian enrollment


The Department of Education is asking 24 public school districts in Arkansas to verify their Indian student enrollment.

The districts reported a huge increase in Indian enrollment, leading to the schools receiving nearly $1.1 million in federal funds. But questions over the legitimacy of the numbers have prompted an investigation. Some schools have already decided not to seek a share of the money.

The big increase is being blamed on the Lost Cherokee Nation of Arkansas and Missouri, an alleged group of Cherokees. The tribe allegedly told schools that they could apply for federal funds without verifying the authenticity of their Indian student body.

Get the Story:
When is an Indian not an Indian? (The Arkansas Times 9/22)

Relevant Links:
Lost Cherokee Nation - http://www.lostcherokee.com

Related Stories:
Cherokee group seeks recognition in own state (01/31)
'Lost' Cherokee tribe seeks federal recognition (1/28)