A dilapidated tribal school on the Duck Valley Indian Reservation will be replaced thanks to a bill signed by Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo. The Owyhee Combined School, serving 330 students from pre-K to 12th grade, has been plagued by issues ranging from a bat infestation to bullet holes in the windows. Its proximity to toxic hydrocarbon plumes has also raised health concerns, with tribal doctors investigating a possible link to cancer deaths.
The new school, funded with $64.5 million, is a victory for the Shoshone-Paiute Tribes, who have long advocated for improved educational facilities. Hundreds of tribal members, including students, journeyed to the state Capitol in April to highlight the school's dire condition and request funding. Chairman Brian Mason expressed pride in the youth's involvement, calling it a "true learning experience."
The legislation not only funds the Owyhee Combined School replacement but also establishes new funding avenues for other tribal and rural schools in Nevada. Rural counties now have the option to leverage property taxes for capital projects on tribal lands. A dedicated $25 million fund has been created for school capital projects, with an additional $25 million earmarked specifically for schools located on tribal land.
Vice Principal Lynn Manning-John described the current facility as a relic of a discriminatory past, stating that the new school offers hope for the tribe's future. Construction is expected to take approximately three years.
This initiative extends beyond the Owyhee school. The bill benefits other schools like Schurz Elementary on the Walker River Reservation. Walker River Paiute Tribe Chairwoman Andrea Martinez emphasized the long-term vision driving this effort, aligning with the tribal focus on future generations.
Tribal lobbyist Teresa Melendez highlighted the broader context of neglected tribal schools, noting issues such as teacher shortages, inadequate housing, and culturally insensitive curricula. Tribal leaders are exploring the possibility of a new tribal school district to streamline funding and curriculum across Nevada's four reservation-based schools.
