A proposed settlement aims to resolve a legal battle involving Montana students, families, and tribes against the state’s Office of Public Instruction. This lawsuit challenges Montana’s compliance with its constitutional obligation to integrate Indigenous education in K-12 schools. The dispute, ongoing since 2021, accuses the state of neglecting its duty to honor the cultural heritage of American Indians in public education.
The 1999 Indian Education for All (IEFA) Act mandates teaching Native American history and culture in schools. The Montana Legislature allocates about $3.5 million each year for this initiative. These funds are intended for curricula development, teacher training, and class materials. However, a 2021 class action lawsuit alleged misappropriation of these funds by Montana school districts, with tribal plaintiffs including the Fort Belknap Indian Community and Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes.
Documents reveal that in 2019 and 2020, only 10% of districts could verify appropriate IEFA fund usage. Some schools reportedly used funds for unrelated expenses like librarian salaries and non-Native American books.
The settlement, awaiting court approval, requires the Office of Public Instruction to enforce accountability through its accreditation system. Measures will include yearly evaluations of IEFA spending in at least seven schools and potential funding cuts for noncompliance. Additionally, schools must report expenses and publish lists of noncompliant institutions.
Superintendent Susie Hedalen expressed satisfaction with the agreement, emphasizing the importance of genuine instruction about Montana’s tribal nations. The OPI has launched a new website for IEFA resources. Confederated Salish and Kootenai Tribes Chair Michael Dolson highlighted the settlement’s significance, stating it ensures “real accountability” in implementing Native American education.
In May 2025, a separate settlement was reached with the Montana Board of Public Education to enhance content standards, tribal collaboration, and teacher training.
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