Native American educational history

Native American educational history reflects a long struggle for cultural preservation and educational autonomy. Historically, U.S. policies aimed to assimilate Native children through boarding schools that suppressed languages and traditions, causing lasting trauma. In the 20th century, efforts shifted toward bilingual and culturally responsive education, emphasizing Native languages and history. Today, many tribes operate their own schools, advocating for curricula that honor Native identities. Despite progress, challenges remain in addressing educational disparities, but there is growing recognition of the importance of respecting Native sovereignty in education and integrating Indigenous knowledge systems.