Flandreau Indian School
Flandreau, SD
"Committed to providing a safe and inclusive environment where every student can thrive"
The Verdict
Flandreau Indian School is the oldest continuously operating federal Indian boarding school in the United States (established 1872). Operated by the Bureau of Indian Education, FIS is where Native students from across the country receive a tuition-free education while maintaining their cultural identity.
The school integrates tribal government, Native American history, and traditional practices into its curriculum. Notable alumnus Dr. Charles Eastman (Ohiyesa), the first Native American licensed physician in the U.S., began his formal education here.
Campus & Cadet Life
About
Flandreau Indian School is a tuition-free federal boarding school in Flandreau, SD, serving Native American students in grades 9-12, with Army JROTC since 2000.
Admissions & Selectivity
Admissions Philosophy
open
Key Requirements
- Must be enrolled in a U.S. federally recognized tribe OR have at least 1/4 degree Indian blood
- Grades 9-12 eligibility
- Completed admissions application
- Health and immunization records
- Previous school transcripts
Admitted Student Profile
3.11
Avg GPA
Location
Campus & Facilities
Campus Size
450 acres
Housing
Dormitory
Enrollment
149
Student:Teacher
15:1
Barracks Life
Housing Type
dorm
Daily Schedule
Structured residential program with roll checks between 5:00-6:00 PM daily. Lights out at 10:30 PM Sunday-Thursday (11:00 PM for Honor Dorm students). Bed checks at 10:30 PM weeknights and 11:30 PM on weekends. Students participate in nightly group counseling sessions, off-campus AA/NA meetings, movies, open gym, Canteen activities, Friday night dances, Tuesday night shopping trips, sweats, and on-campus work study opportunities.
Discipline Model
Progressive dormitory system with Honor Dorm privileges for students demonstrating self-discipline. Eligibility requires passing grades of C or better in all subjects, positive attitude, participation in after-school activities, no major infractions for three weeks, and excellent housekeeping. An Intensive Residential Guidance (IRG) program assists students with behavioral and emotional challenges. Religious services are offered Sundays with social activities on Wednesday evenings.
Academics & Outcomes
College Matriculation
Not published
Where Graduates Go
Available through JROTC program guidance
Hall of Fame
Dr. Charles Eastman (Ohiyesa)
First Native American physician licensed to practice medicine in the United States, author of 'Indian Boyhood' and 'From the Deep Woods to Civilization,' Dartmouth graduate, Boston University M.D.
Athletics & Physical Training
Varsity Sports
Mandatory PT
Physical education integrated into academic curriculum. All students have access to athletic programs and physical training facilities. The FIS Boys Cross Country team has qualified for the South Dakota XC State Championships.
Facilities
450-acre campus features a renovated gymnasium with tribal banners, weight training room, outdoor cross-country course, disc golf course, outdoor basketball courts, horse corral, ropes course, Student Canteen, and recreational areas. Central dining area connects dormitories allowing indoor access during inclement weather.
External Ratings
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Official Federal Data Sources
Verify information directly from U.S. Department of Education databases:
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