Native Teacher Program

The Family Education Model was developed by American Indian Educators, social workers, and university advisors at five Montana colleges to replicate within the college culture the extended family structure often found on reservations and within other Native communities.

In  the Journal of American Indian Education, v41 n2 p29-37 2002, Iris HeavyRunner and Richard Decelles outline the utilization of the Model.  They describe a positive impact on Native student retention due to students' sense of belonging and family participation in the academic process.  Click to view full text. 
The OLCE program strives to employ the Family Education Model by including students' families, friends and community members in our activities.  Student support includes consideration for family needs, resources  and family inclusion in decision-making processes.  

Students' families frequently attend  OLCE activities and outings designed to help facilitate a supportive  community atmosphere.  We  also invite speakers, elders, singers, and other community members to participate in the education process.