Learning Leech Lake lessons: State higher ed commissioner hears from students at tribal colleges

CASS LAKE -- A second-semester college student who went 13 years without using a computer, because she was in prison.

A teacher who nudges students to the point of annoyance, because that’s the best way to help.

A 40-year-old who never thought he’d go to college, going to school now, because he hopes to one day start his own construction business.

Larry Pogemiller, commissioner of the Minnesota Office of Higher Education, heard from these people and more during his visit Tuesday to Leech Lake Tribal College. The commissioner wanted to hear from students, teachers and administrators about what is and isn’t working at their school; he’ll do the same Wednesday at 10 a.m. at Red Lake Nation College.

http://www.bemidjipioneer.com/news/education/3884949-learning-leech-lake-lessons-state-higher-ed-commissioner-hears-students