Grand Traverse Band Gives $183,000 to School District that Supports Native Language

Native News Network Staff in Native Currents. Discussion »

Chairman Derek Bailey

SUTTONS BAY, MICHIGAN - Michigan school districts are suffering from the prolonged impact of loss of manufacturing jobs which has translated into loss of state funding to school districts.

However, one school district's financial headaches lessened on Monday by a gift of one Michigan Indian tribe.

The Suttons Bay school district in northern Michigan has benefited from an $183,000 check from neighboring the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians.

Within the student population, 177 of the 605 students are from Grand Traverse Band tribal families. The school district teaches the Anishinaabemowin language, which is the Tribe's ancestral language. Parts of the funds allocated to school district go to fund the language program.

“The Tribal Council recognized the true need being brought forth by the Suttons Bay Public Schools' Administration, Board and community during a difficult financial situation,”

commented Tribal Chairman Derek Bailey to the Native News Network.

The gaming compact between the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians and the State of Michigan calls for two percent of its video revenues to go to local governmental units and service agencies. The Suttons Bay school district was the largest recipient of the funds among 57 others that was allocated funds of $958,000.

“This two percent allocation is a "win-win" scenario for all involved, with most importance being placed on our students, our children.”

The two tribal casinos owned and operated by the Tribe are second largest employer in area. The Tribe also owns and operates the Grand Traverse Resort, a popular resort in the northern portion of Michigan's Lower Peninsular.

posted February 8, 2012 6:00 am est