Nevertheless, our case studies offer many positive examples of bicultural and bilingual education that can create more holistic and healthy communities in rural Alaska, with the added benefit of improved student achievement. The following recommendations are offered to educators and policy makers based on the study. While directed to the Alaska audience, these recommendations apply in large part to rural schools and communities anywhere in the country. Stabilize professional staff in rural schools. Provide role models and support for creating a positive self-image to which students can aspire.
Parent involvement needs to be treated as a partnership with more shared decision making.
Implement teacher orientation, mentoring, and induction programs in rural schools. Eliminate testing requirements that interfere with language immersion programs. Strengthen curriculum support for culturally responsive, place-based approaches that integrate local and global academic and practical learning. Encourage the development of multiple paths for students to meet the state standards. Extend the cultural standards and Native ways of knowing and teaching into teacher preparation programs.