The South Dakota Board of Education approved new standards that will help public schools develop curriculum to teach about Indian culture and history.

The Oceti Sakowin Essential Understandings and Standards were developed by the South Dakota Office of Indian Education in conjunction with Indian educators across the state. They identify the core concepts that are essential to understanding and teaching of Lakota, Dakota and Nakota history and culture.

"Students are more engaged when they find the curriculum relevant," Gov. Dennis Daugaard (R) said in a press release. "It's important for Native students to have that relevancy, but it's also equally important for our non-Native students to have a better understanding of the cultural background of the state."

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New Indian education standards aim for respect (The Sioux Falls Argus Leader 7/26)