Indian Education for All

What is IEFA?

1. Based on 1972 Montana Constitution, Article X, Section I
2. Constitution states: “The state recognizes the distinct and unique cultural heritage of American Indians and is committed in its educational goals to the preservation of their cultural integrity.”
3. To meet the constitutional requirements, in 1999 Montana Legislature passed the Indian Education for All Act
4. The act did the following:
   1. Reaffirm the 1972 constitutional language.
   2. Mandate that every Montana public school student learn about the distinct and unique heritage of American Indians in a culturally responsive manner.
   3. Direct state and local schools to work with Montana tribes to develop appropriate curriculums regarding American Indian culture and heritage.
   4. Mandate that all public school personnel have knowledge of American Indian tribes and cultures in Montana and are provided the means to acquire this knowledge.