Describes a 4-year training program for Indian paraprofessionals as Social Work Aides to support Indian children--especially the handicapped--in a non-Indian school system. Reports positive program evaluations including high ratings for workshops and advocacy effectiveness, decreased absenteeism for students with advocate intervention, and…

American Indian educators, social workers, and university advisors at five Montana colleges developed the Family Education Model to replicate within the college culture the extended family structure often found on reservations. This enhances Native students' sense of belonging and leads to higher retention rates. Family support is given to any…