It is time for the Osage Nation to found our own University; we need to have an institution of higher learning in the Heart of the Osage. I believe the focus of our college should be energy, both fossil fuels and alternative sources. We should develop traditional degree plans in petroleum engineering and natural gas and then look to the future by establishing a division of renewable energy. Whoever can find a way to make solar energy less expensive than fossil fuels will own the 21rst century. It is time that we entered into this race by bringing the study of solar energy home to the Osage. We should start with a basic two year program that sets a foundation for future degrees and gradually expand it to focus on energy. We should investigate the possibility of partnering with an established university and begin with a combination of live and teleconferenced classes. This is a win, win situation that will bring education, jobs and money to Osage County.
In order to more fully meet the needs of our Osage students, I would propose that we initiate an education tracking system that will follow their academic progress. We need to develop a data base that will start as early as our Osage parents will allow us to put their children into the system. Our education department may then develop programs to meet the needs of our students based on the trends that are shown in this information. In addition to collecting data through a voluntary online survey, we could also include a voluntary survey once a year in the Osage News.
Our Osage Education Department already has some excellent programs in place like the OSAGE NATION SYLVAN TUTORING PROGRAM and a number of higher education scholarships and grants. Creating this data base will only improve the services that they can provide for our Osage youth.
The many opportunities for higher education are posted on the Osage Education Department website. http://www.osagetribe.com/education/
