Indian Student Discrimination

Aberdeen, SD: (Dec-12-07) 10 students and their families, backed by the American Civil Liberties Union brought a charge against School district, alleging that they were punished unfairly, receiving more than their share of suspensions and police referrals. Sources stated that 10 students and their families sued the school district last year and received class action status on behalf of all Indians students in the district's middle school and high school. The district agreed to settle in order to avoid further litigation. It also agreed to pay $100,000 to the Civil Liberties Union for attorney's fees and costs. Federal Judge Charles Kornmann has signed an agreement between the Winner School District and American Indian students who said they were systematically and unfairly punished. Sources stated that the settlement will result in several changes intended to improve the achievements of Indian students in the Winner School District. [KXMC.COM] Judge signs agreement in school lawsuit