CHOICE -- Indian Communities Have Options in Control of Education.

Overview & Synopsis

Communities Have Options in Control of Education (CHOICE) has been developed as a plan of action and a means for American Indian communities to exercise their responsibilities in providing a quality education as defined locally by responsible Indian groups. CHOICE aims to provide for a legitimate Indian voice in all education programs operated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) and to help Indian communities provide for each student a program of high quality which will prepare him to make informed choices throughout his life including those instances where the schools are not operated by BIA. CHOICE ties very closely with other Bureau and Federal programs. It provides the tribe or community with options on the kind of education and the delivery system they desire. Among these are: an educational program that respects Indian cultural values; a quality education program for Indian children enrolled in public schools; boarding schools of high quality; adequate financial assistance for undergraduate and graduate college attendance; an effective education program for exceptional children--handicapped and gifted; creative learning experiences for preschool children; adult education; summer activities; education staff who are sensitive and appreciative of the needs and heritage of Indian children and youth; and alternative education programs for Indian youth who are not in school or employed. (NQ)