News Release

Governor’s Governor’s Award for Excellence in Cultural Education

5/19/2003
Kriss Goss
406-444-3862
kgoss@state.mt.us

During my State of the State Address on January 21, 2003 I announced the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Cultural Education. The award is intended to recognize school districts that have implemented a program to meet the provisions of 20-1-501 MCA, the Indian Education for All Act of 1999.

We all want to elevate the public’s awareness of the importance of both the constitutional and statutory language requiring every Montana student to be educated on the distinct and unique heritage of American Indians. This award is intended to highlight efforts that are ensuring all Montanans obtain extensive knowledge of American Indians.

Submissions must be received by the Office of the Governor by August 15, 2003 and must include a letter from educator, letter from student, letter from an administrator or school board trustee and a detailed synopsis of the eligible American Indian Education Program.

Up to five reservation and five non-reservation elementary and high schools will be recognized for meeting and surpassing the spirit of the constitutional and statutory language of Indian Education for All.

By September 1, 2003 a review panel consisting of American Indian educators and leaders, state government officials, legislators, education leaders and high school students shall select programs worthy of recognition. The framework "Essential Understandings" from the Office of Public Instruction will serve as a guide in this selection.

The most important benefit of the award is the awareness of different cultures. Every student in Montana deserves to learn about the history, traditions and beliefs of American Indians. The attention the award will bring to the importance of the curriculum will be a step towards ensuring this important mandate is met.

I encourage you to submit an application so that the hard work of educators and students in your school is recognized by all of our neighbors throughout Montana. If you have any questions please contact Kris Goss in my office at (406) 444-3862 or kgoss@state.mt.us.

Please mail all submissions to:
Office of the Governor
Governor’s Award for Excellence in Cultural Education
State Capitol
Helena MT, 59601.

I look forward to learning more about your important work.

Sincerely,


JUDY MARTZ
Governor