The Menominee Nation in Wisconsin created its own public school district in 1976 after parents complained that a nearby district treated their kids differently. Dropout, suspension and expulsion rates were extremely high for Indian students who went to school in Shawano.

Three decades later, the Menominee Indian School District is confronting the same issues that Shawano once faced. The district was the only one in the state labeled for improvement under the No Child Left Behind Act. Students are suspended at a rate four times the state average. Substance abuse, poverty and behavioral problems are high.

Some parents say the Menominee schools don't present students with enough opportunities or challenges. About 60 families now send their kids to Shawano, taking about $300,000 in public school funds with them.

But school officials say they are working to improve the situation with limited state and federal funds. The schools are emphasizing Menominee culture and language. Superintendent Wendell Waukau is implementing a $100,000 reform program and says it will take 20 years for the schools to turn around.

Get the Story:
Menominee tribal culture is a common thread in district's classes (The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel 1/20)
Menominee tribal culture is a common thread in district's classes (The Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel 1/20)

Relevant Links:
Menominee Indian School District - http://www.misd.k12.wi.us
Menominee Nation - http://menominee.nsn.us