The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian

What information does Mr. P give Junior about education on the Rez?

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After Junior is suspended for hitting Mr. P. in the nose with a book, Mr. P comes to Junior’s house. Instead of being angry, however, he begins to apologize to Junior. Mr. P. says that he and the other white teachers were once instructed to make their Indian students forget their culture and heritage, and he feels guilty about his past compliance with this rule. That is why he cannot punish Junior; he knows that the conditions he and the other teachers implemented have created a chain reaction that has led to his own nose being injured. Mr. P. tells Junior that he is the smartest kid in his school, which means that he has to leave the reservation. Regardless of how difficult it might be, Mr. P. says, leaving the reservation will be Junior's only chance to realize his hopes and aspirations.

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The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian