Innovation, data fixes fuel Native American graduation gains at federally funded schools
Summary
Graduation rates at schools run by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) rose from just over 50% in 2015 to 79% in 2025. This improvement is partly due to better data tracking and more focus on career and technical training that matches students’ interests.Key Facts
- BIE oversees 183 schools serving over 40,000 Native American students.
- Graduation rates improved after BIE changed how it collects and reports data starting in 2018.
- Some schools are run by tribes with federal funding, the rest are operated directly by BIE.
- Career and technical education programs, like the one at Chief Leschi Schools, have helped keep students engaged.
- Graduates like Gerald Dillon found more motivation through hands-on job training.
- The Trump administration supported efforts to improve teacher training and Native American education.
- There are concerns that some recent government changes could slow down progress.
- Nine BIE high schools reported their graduation rates doubled or more since the new data methods began.
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