Seven More Mountains and a Map: Overcoming Obstacles to Reform in Native American Schools

Although they face many obstacles in common with other at-risk communities, Native Americans encounter other obstacles specific to their sociohistorical context. North American national policies imposed on Indian communities have resulted in political, social, and economic subjugation of a wholesegment of the national population. The historical context of this relationship continues to influence contemporary classrooms through institutionalized social relations, educational practices, and goals, all of which may be at odds with those of Native American communities and their perceived educational needs. The geographical and social isolation of many Native American reservation communities hinders recruitment and retention of competent teachers and administrators. Communication is impeded by both subtle and profound cultural differences between school personnel and the families they purport to serve. Native American leaders work to make teaching methods and curricula responsive to local tribal situations. Of...