Native Language Immersion Student Achievement Act Explained

The Native Language Immersion Student Achievement Act, S. 1948 was introduced on Jan 16, 2014. Its sponsor is Sen. Jon Tester [D-MT]. Cosponsors were Max Baucus [D-MT], Mark Begich [D-AK], Tim Johnson [D-SD], Brian Schatz [D-HI], Tom Udall [D-NM], and Lisa Murkowski [R-AK].^[1]

The bill "would amend the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 to provide increased federal financial support to Native American language programs at American Indian-focused schools."^[2] In 2015, the bill would provide $5 million in funding.^[3]

Support among Native Americans includes Oglala Sioux Tribal president Bryan Brewer and Rosebud Sioux Tribal president Cyril Scott.^[4] Congressional supporters include Senator John Walsh (D-MT).^[5]

See also

• Esther Martinez Native American Languages Preservation Act
• Language nest
• Language immersion
• Language education in the United States
• Less Commonly Taught Languages
• Indigenous languages of the Americas

External links

• Text of S. 1948 as introduced

Notes and References

1. Web site: Native Language Immersion Student Achievement Act (S. 1948). GovTrack.us. 2014-02-27.
2. News: Cappricioso. Rob. Tester, in Line to Be SCIA Chair, to Introduce Indian School Language Bill. 2014-02-27. 2014-01-16.
3. News: Tester, Johnson, Begich, and Schatz introduce Native languages bill. Char-Koosta News. 2014-02-27. 2014-01-23.
4. News: Ecoffey. Brandon. Native Sun News: Native language bill introduced in Senate. Indianz.Com. 2014-02-27. 2014-01-23.
5. Web site: Office of Senator John Walsh. Walsh Fights to Protect and Maintain Tribal Languages. Indian Country Today Media Network. 2014-05-20. 2014-05-16.