20-7-1402. (Temporary) 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. (Terminates June 30, 2019--sec. 10, Ch. 442, L. 2015.)

     History: En. Sec. 2, Ch. 442, L. 2015.