From Aspirant to Professional: The Transformation of American Indians Who Would Be Teachers. Results of a Five-Year Ethnographic Study

This paper describes a collaboration between a college, three public school districts, and an American Indian school, all with high American Indian populations, to increase the number of American Indian teachers. Project goals were to: (1) develop programs to facilitate the professional preparation of American Indian instructional aides to become teachers, who could then become positive role models for students; and (2) help candidates understand and address unique problems confronting American Indian students. Data come from evaluations of the Knight Scholar Program at Heritage College in Toppenish, Washington. Researchers collected information via interviews with Knight Scholars for over 5 years. Results indicate that the program was successful in its goals. Participants considered themselves transformed by the experience, believed they gained confidence in their own expertise, and were determined to make a difference. They considered themselves important role models for American Indian students and felt better prepared to bridge the cultural gap between school and community. They expressed concern about alcoholism, drugs, dropping out, gang activities among youth, and preservation of their native language and culture. They were committed to the concept that American Indian people must provide leadership in American Indian education. (Contains 23 references.) (SM)