20-7-1402: Legislative findings -- purposes.

(1) The legislature finds that:

(a) language in the form of spoken, written, or sign language is foundational to cultural integrity;

(b) Montana tribal languages are in a time of crisis through the loss of native speakers, writers, and signers;

(c) achievement gaps persist for Indian students, including higher dropout rates;

(d) Article X, section 1, of the Montana constitution established the educational goals of:

(i) establishing an education system that develops the full educational potential of each person; and

(ii) preserving Indian cultural integrity.

(2) The purpose of this part is to promote innovative, culturally relevant, Indian language immersion programs for Indian and non-Indian students with the goal of raising student achievement, strengthening families, and preserving and perpetuating Indian language and culture throughout Indian country and Montana.