Title VI

The Title VI Indian Education Program was implemented in the Mustang Public School district in 1994 and is designed to assist eligible Alaska Native and Native American students throughout their public-school career.  The Title VI Indian Education Program is part of the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) Act.  The program concentrates its efforts in these areas:  1. Increase academic achievements; and 2. foster a supportive and effective learning environment.  Mustang currently has 1,267 students in the program. To achieve its objectives, the Title VI staff includes Federal Programs Director Marva Oard, Federal Programs Administrative Assistant Cassi Rosko and Native American Advisor Katy Patterson.

Specifically, as a direct service to students, the Title VI Program provides academic tutoring to eligible Alaska Native and American Indian students.  The tutors also implement and evaluate individual-specific educational learning plans, maintain and evaluate student records, and track academic progress.  As advocates, the tutors also communicate with students, parents/guardians, classroom teachers and school administration.  In addition, the Title VI Program is committed to providing authentic cultural resources, additional academic resources, and college and career preparation resources. 

Definition:  Indian means any individual who is (1)a member (as defined by the Indian tribe or band) of an Indian tribe or band, including those Indian tribes or bands terminated since 1940, and those recognized by the state in which the tribe or band reside; or (2) a descendant in the first or second degree (parent or grandparent) as described in (1); or (3) considered by the Secretary of the Interior to be an Indian for any purpose; or (4) an Eskimo or Aleut or other Alaska Native; or (5) a member of an organized Indian group that received a grant under the Indian Education Act of 1988 as it was in effect October 19, 1994.

Mustang Public Schools Indian Education Office must have a signed and dated 506 Form  on each student being counted in the program.  In order to apply for a formula grant under the Indian Education Program, your child's school must determine the number of Indian children enrolled.  Any child who meets the above definition may be counted for this purpose.  You are not required to complete or submit this form to the school.  However, if you choose not to submit a form, the school cannot count your child for funding and your child will not be eligible for services under the program.  This form will become part of your child's school record and will not need to be completed every year.  This form will be maintained at the school and information on the form will not be released without your written approval.

Title VI funds may be used to:

• Identify Alaska Native/Native American students most at-risk in meeting state standards.
• Assess the needs of students in the Mustang Public Schools district.
• Support research-based, comprehensive educational programs to help reduce educational barriers.
• Ensure that students receive appropriate coordinated educational services, including support services that address their individual needs.
• Help Alaska Native/Native American students achieve the same standards as developed for other students.
• Design programs to facilitate students' successful transitions to post-secondary education and employment.