TEDNA

The Oregon Department of Education has outlined a new strategic plan to help boost graduation rates, attendance and more for the state’s Native American youth. 

The state originally approved the Oregon American Indian/Alaska Native Education State Plan more than 20 years ago, according to ODE. The newly revised document was adopted by the State Board of Education in April and aims to increase outcomes for Native American students, provide culturally relevant instruction and hire and retain more Native American educators.

“This plan will help guide our efforts at the state level as we engage our tribal partners and communities in the important work underway,”  said new state schools chief Salam Noor, who recently took over for former Deputy Superintendent Rob Saxton. “Our system has historically underserved our Native students, and this plan is an important step in turning things around and providing our students with what they need to excel.”