Conflicting Landscapes: American Schooling/Alaska Natives

by Clifton Bates, Michael J. Oleksa

This comprehensive illustrated volume presents a wide-ranging picture of the schooling of Alaska Native children from past to present. It explores the histories of changing philosophies of schooling and their effect on generations of Alaska Native students, details the situation—financial, social, and educational—of the many rural schools serving this population, and offers cogent, straightforward proposals for improving the intellectual, emotional, and spiritual health of present and future generations of Alaska Natives.

264 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2008

Reviews

[Meg · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the historical aspects of this book. Having heard Father Oleksa lecture in person as part of the course was fascinating and it added to the value of the book. Chapters 1-6 were my favorite. Later in the book, my feelings got a little more complicated as the attitude of the book changed. It’s hard as an educator to feel the pressures of fixing major issues that feel so much bigger than what can be fixed by individual efforts. The second half of the book was more condescending and patronizing than what is fair. I appreciate books about education that value and thank educators for doing their best, even if there are things they can improve. Otherwise, it feels too discouraging.

[Kay]

Father Michael J. Oleska, Alaskan Orthodox missionary for nearly three decades, tells of teaching in rural, native-populated Alaska where white teachers have regularly come and gone while trying to teach their ways and cultural perspectives to native children. Cultural difference and how it is is lived in America seen in the wake-up call for educating children with respect for their native culture.

[Kathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book accurately assesses the current situation occurring in rural Alaska in relation to education. It also gives the best way to remedy it through proper teacher training and continual reading and listening comprehension.

[Sandy Kleven · Rating 4 out of 5]

A remarkable book offering insight into the troubles of rural Alaska.