Abstract: This paper presented a historical overview of the Kaingang people schooling processes in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, between the mid 19th century and the turn of the 21st century. It analyzed and reflected on the relations between this indigenous group and school initiatives put forth by Jesuit and Capuchin missionaries and by the state across both local and state levels. The article is based on bibliographical sources, official documents and papers written by indigenous scholars. Drawing on a New Indian History perspective, it can be concluded that the Kaingang people were active agents in their schooling processes, displaying agency by rejecting it, engaging with it, and by negotiating possibilities.
Keywords:
school inspection; public education; school legislation