Requiring school districts to report information related to American Indian children attending school in the school district.
Impact
The legislation will come into effect starting with the annual reports for the 2026-2027 school year, mandating that school districts include the number, ages, and tribal affiliations of American Indian children enrolled in their schools. This could significantly influence resource allocation, program development, and policy formulation to improve educational outcomes for American Indian students. The bill aims to remedy visibility issues regarding the educational landscape for these children, allowing better representation in state assessments.
Summary
AB101 aims to enhance the oversight of American Indian education by requiring school districts in Wisconsin to report detailed demographic information about American Indian students. This bill was proposed to address a gap in existing state law, which currently mandates a biennial assessment of American Indian language and culture programs but does not require schools to collect or report tribal affiliation data. By implementing this requirement, the bill seeks to ensure that educational policies and programs are tailored to the needs of American Indian children.
Contention
Some points of contention surrounding AB101 may include concerns regarding the administrative burden placed on school districts to collect and report this information. Opponents might argue that this creates additional workload and complexity without providing adequate support, while supporters would contend that the potential benefits to American Indian education justify the need for such data. Additionally, the implementation timeline gives districts time to prepare for this requirement, ensuring they can comply without significant disruption.
Model academic standards related to American Indian studies, informational materials related to a school board's obligation to provide instruction on American Indians, and the American Indian studies requirement for teacher licensure. (FE)
Model academic standards related to American Indian studies, informational materials related to a school board's obligation to provide instruction on American Indians, and the American Indian studies requirement for teacher licensure. (FE)