Dusty Johnson: “In an entire State, the State of South Dakota, nine Indian reservations, it has become apparent to me the one successful…”

“In an entire State, the State of South Dakota, nine Indian reservations, it has become apparent to me the one successful strategy to combat poverty and break away from dependence of the Federal Government, in fact has been quality education. Eliminating the Office of Indian Education would have a profound negative impact in my State of South Dakota. We would lose over $2.6 million in formula and discretionary funds, 49 South Dakota school districts would be negatively impacted, and 17,800 native American children would lose educational opportunities. This is the one area where we should not be retreating. I again express my strong support for the amendment to restore funding for the Department of Education's Office of Indian Education, which has been targeted for elimination. Since 1972, the invaluable programs administered through the Office of Indian Education have helped over 1,200 school districts nationwide address the unique academic needs of millions of American Indian and Alaska Native children and adults. Consequently, the need for improved educational programs and facilities, and for training the American Indian work force is pressing.”