Native American Schools See Big Jump in Graduation Rates

Students on the Puyallup Reservation in Washington state are finding new reasons to stay in school. One of them is Gerald Dillon, who used to struggle in class. But when he started helping out in a second-grade classroom as part of his career training, everything changed. He began to see the value in education and even found a new passion for teaching. Dillon's story is not unique. Across the country, Native American students are graduating at higher rates than ever before.

In 2015, only half of high school students in schools run by the U.S. Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) graduated within four years. By 2025, that number had jumped to 79%. Some educators say the improvement is due to a new focus on career training and technical education. At Chief Leschi Schools in Washington, students can take courses in health sciences, education, and fisheries management. This hands-on approach has helped students like Dillon stay motivated and find a path to success.

The way graduation rates are reported has also changed. In the past, schools used different methods to track student progress, which often led to inaccurate numbers. But since 2018, the BIE has standardized data collection, providing a clearer picture of student success. An analysis of BIE data shows that graduation rates have increased by 55% since the new reporting standards began. Nine schools have even reported a 100% increase in graduation rates.

However, not all schools have the same resources or support. Some tribal governments struggle to fund programs or take over management of BIE schools. The Crow Creek Sioux Tribe in South Dakota, for example, faces challenges with its BIE-operated high school, which is understaffed and in need of repairs. Tribal leaders worry that changes to the BIE and education system could undermine progress. They are pushing back against plans to dismantle the Department of Education and reduce funding.

Despite these challenges, educators and students remain hopeful. They believe that with the right support and resources, Native American students can thrive. At Choctaw Central High School in Mississippi, a virtual learning program has helped increase graduation rates from 70% to 93%. This program provides flexibility for students who need to work or take care of family responsibilities. As one principal noted, it's all about giving students the tools they need to succeed. With the right approach, Native American students can achieve their goals and build a brighter future.