Because the many distinct native languages and cultural variations of Native Americans create special educational needs for their children, it is important to encourage the active involvement of Indian parents and tribal leaders in planning and implementing Indian education programs. This report provides specific recommendations and practical approaches made by the Education Commission of the States Task Force on Indian Education to encourage the involvement of the Indian people in the education of their children. The report also provides illustrations of what has been done by Michigan in the area of policy and by California in the area of legislation in their efforts to improve Indian education. Also included is a description of current efforts by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, by tribes, by the Coalition of Indian Controlled School Boards, and by the National Indian Education Association. In addition to parental/tribal involvement in education, there is a need for more Indian professionals in the education field and for the development of a curriculum that accurately portrays Indian people, both historically and on a contemporary basis. Federal, state, and tribal governments must work cooperatively to improve the quality of Indian education. (CM)