RAPID CITY, S.D.(KOTA)- Rapid City-based non-profit and advocacy group NDN Collective has announced plans to open the cities first Indigenous-led community school, scheduled to be ready for students by 2022.

NDN Collective education equity director Sarah Pierce said being taught by someone from a similar background can bring value to an education.

Pierce said the school will help close what’s been called an “opportunity gap” faced by indigenous students.

Pierce said the response of Rapid City residents has largely revolved around funding.

The school is expecting to teach 40 students in its first year, a modest start which Pierce says is expected to grow over the following school years.