A field study of Cherokee Indians in Eastern Oklahoma revealed the following information: (1) educators were ignorant of and indifferent to the language, values, and cultural traditions of the Tribal (rural) Cherokee; (2) the Tribal Cherokees were an impoverished people; (3) both adults and children were educationally disadvantaged; and (4) Tribal Cherokee parents desired that their children obtain an education, but were critical of the schools for abusing their children. Recommendations included: (1) both English and Cherokee be officially recognized; (2) curricula be developed to teach English as a second language; (3) teachers of Cherokee children learn the language and culture of the Cherokee; and (4) special funds be allocated to study the problems of Cherokee children. An extensive history of the Cherokee Nation is included. (RH)