WASHINGTON STATE

Washington State House Democrats

HOUSE DEMOCRATS

Bill helps close ‘opportunity gap’ for Native American students

OLYMPIA – Of the 295 school districts in Washington state, 270 have Native American students enrolled in them.  Now action is being taken to ensure that these students, as well as their non-Native American peers, can benefit from the Office of Native Education at the state level.

This morning, Governor Gregoire signed House Bill 1829, which puts the Office of Native Education into state statute.  The measure was sponsored by Rep. Andy Billig (D – Spokane), who serves on the House Education Committee.  His district includes the Spokane School District, which has the highest number of Native American students out of all school districts in Washington. 

“The state tracks how every group of students is doing, because we want all students to be able to succeed in school and life,” Billig said.  “With our Native American students, there is an opportunity gap that we need to close, and this bill will help with that.”

The Office of Native Education will have its duties and responsibilities specifically spelled out in the statute.  Its twofold mission is to serve and advocate for Native American students, as well as to help encourage and promote the teaching of Native American history, culture, and language in public schools.

The bill passed both legislative chambers with strong bipartisan support.  Tribal leaders and representatives welcomed today’s commitment to a better future for Washington’s Native American student population.

“This is an historic day for Native Americans in the State of Washington. After more than 40 years, we finally have the Office of Native Education in statute,” said Mel Sheldon, Chairman of the Tulalip Tribes.  “This office supports Native American students who, without it, would be invisible in the system.”