Found estimated overall dropout rate of 31 percent and a transfer rate of 30 percent among Navajo students. Lack of comparable data across schools and districts made determination of the actual dropout rate very difficult. Concludes that the dropout phenomenon is complex, multicausal, and can only be helped with an approach that brings together…

Reviews studies of Native American dropout rates conducted in the past three decades, highlighting the difficulties in obtaining accurate statistics resulting from small sample size of the group. Emphasizes structural disadvantages, rather than "cultural discontinuity," as the major influence to drop out. Studies of the transfer rate…

Examines dropout rates in small village high schools. Reports that the shift from boarding schools to small village high schools has dramatically reduced the dropout rates of rural Alaska native students. Suggests related characteristics are small size, personalized atmosphere, sense of community, and individualized instruction. (DHP)

Informal survey described educational status of federally-recognized Indian students enrolled in and eligible for enrollment in Bureau of Indian Affairs and public schools receiving support via the Johnson-O'Malley Act. High dropout rates, low average daily attendance, and high rates of nonenrollment were found. (LFL)

A seven-year ethnographic study of Navajo and Ute youth in a border reservation community suggests the following factors in understanding why youth left school: (1) racial and economic relations in the community and school; (2) home child-rearing patterns of noninterference and early adulthood; and (3) cultural integrity and resistance. (KS)

Urban American Indian dropouts and stayers in four cohorts (graduating classes) were examined on variables related to their years of high school attendance. Parent and student group interviews revealed that dropping out was related to lower academic achievement, retention in grade, greater family mobility, tribal affiliation, and school attended.…

Discusses concern generated among Arizona tribal leaders by education reform measures. Reviews trends in Indian education including dropout rates, lags in academic achievement, and university retention and graduation rates. Illustrates mechanisms through which universities can implement effective schooling for Indians at local levels. (NEC)

The article gives a brief overview of the history of education for Alaska natives. It also includes a summary of various studies on dropout among Alaska native students; notes problems facing those dropouts; and notes implications for the community. The article calls for dropout research based on nonhome factors. (SB)

The American Indian student enters the school system with a cultural heritage and set of values appreciably different from that of the educational system itself. This article gives an historic overview of Indian education and values and suggests specific teaching strategies to meet the needs of American Indian students. (Author/LC)

Federal and state bilingual education legislation since 1923 has not enhanced the education of Pueblo Indian children in New Mexico. Lacking public school control, Pueblo Indians have resisted the establishment of bilingual education programs for their children. Bilingual-bicultural program development must be preceded by giving Pueblos community…