This document systematically studies the status of Native education in the United States and makes recommendations for improving the quality of education for American Indian and Alaska Native students. Based on extensive testimony by citizens and educators, school site visits, and commissioned papers by experts, the Indian Nations At Risk Task Force identified four reasons why Indian nations are at risk as a people: (1) failure of schools to educate large numbers of Indian students; (2) erosion of Native languages and cultures; (3) threats of further reduction of Native lands and natural resources; and (4) challenges to Indian self-determination and governance by changing federal policies and court decisions. Following a review of Native enrollments, funding for Native education, the changing context of Native education, barriers to success for Indian students, and progress in research and educational practices, the Task Force presents a strategic framework for improving schools. Major strategies are: (1) developing comprehensive education plans that uses federal, state, local and tribal resources; (2) developing local partnerships for schools; (3) emphasizing national priorities related to parent-based early childhood education, promotion of tribal language and culture, training of Native teachers, and strengthening of tribal community colleges; (4) creating mechanisms of accountability; and (5) fostering understanding of the relationships between tribes and government. Specific recommendations are outlined for parents, educators, Native communities, and governmental bodies, as well as priorities for additional funding, research, and higher education. This report contains 12 notes, 60 references, a list of 21 commissioned papers, and descriptions of 13 model programs and successful practices in American Indian education.