Kline Statement on Dept. of Interior Announcement on Funding to Replace Bug School

Press Release

Minnesota Congressman John Kline issued the following statement today after the U.S. Department of Interior announced funding to begin the replacement process of the Bug-O-Nay-Ge-Shig High School of the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe:

"I am pleased the Administration fulfilled my request that the federal government honor its commitment to those students and families in northern Minnesota. The significant health and safety hazards I witnessed firsthand when I visited the Bug School with Rep. Rick Nolan are deplorable and required my efforts toward funding this program for the first time since 2011 to replace individual buildings and facilities. I have long argued the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE)-funded Bug School is a prime example of a school not originally built to serve as a school, and in need of dire replacement to address safety and educational needs of its students.

"Washington must fulfill its promise to Native American students across the country to provide educational opportunities in a manner that preserves their culture, language, and traditions. As Chairman of the House Education and the Workforce Committee I continue to exercise congressional oversight to examine the federal government's mismanagement of Native American Schools under the Bureau of Indian Education's jurisdiction, so we can help all students receive an excellent education in a safe and healthy environment."

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