The Future of The Indian Education Act: Proposed Changes and Issues

The Indian Education Act, authorized by Title IV, provides three distinct programs for Indian people, including those from federally recognized, state, non-federally recognized, and terminated tribes, as well as urban Indians. The programs include a grant program for local educational agencies and Indian controlled schools, grants for model and experimental education programs and services, and grants for adult educational programs. However, the President has proposed phasing out this program, arguing that services should only be provided to certain eligible Indians and that all programs benefiting Indians should be located in the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA). The rationale for phasing out the program is flawed as Title IV was specifically created to serve a broader population than the BIA serves, and the BIA is not equipped to handle the needs of other groups. Additionally, Title IV provides unique programs and services that are not adequately covered by other federal programs. The transfer of Title IV to the BIA is illogical and the BIA has been accused of being influenced by