By Erin Maxson

MEDFORD, Ore. -- The number of people identifying themselves as American Indian and Alaskan Native is growing. Data from the U.S. Census shows a 39% increase from the previous Census in 2000. That number is reflected in area schools.

The Southern Oregon Indian Education Program currently serves nearly 2,100 kids across seven school districts. They say when the program started in the 2008-09 school year, 811 students were indentified as American Indian/Alaska Native on their school registration forms. This year, they say that number has increased to 2,076 students, which is an increase of 256% in just four years.

The Southern Oregon Indian Education Program offers advocacy, resources, and cultural opportunities for kids and families. It is simple and free to register yourself or your kids, but the deadline is early next week, February 1st.

For more information, contact Jeff Painter at 541-301-7760.