Sharon Stands Overbull

Sharon Stands Overbull has been a pioneer in the public education field for over 50 years. She has served as an elementary teacher for close to 30 years and later as principal and superintendent for the Pryor public school system. Stands Overbull graduated with a degree in elementary education from Montana State University-Billings in the 1960s. She then became an educator with the school districts on the Crow Indian Reservation. In 1996, she completed a master’s of education degree from Montana State University-Bozeman. Stands Overbull is one of the first Crow Native American women to receive a post-graduate degree in education. She has taught and educated hundreds of Native American students throughout her career. She has always been a strong advocate for equality in educational opportunities for both women and Native Americans. She has brought reform to the educational system on Indian reservations by increasing the retention rate of graduates and overall academic scores. Stands Overbull has given her life to help the Native American people see the value in higher education by teaching and demonstrating. She believes that through education, we can make a difference in the lives of others.

Sharon Stands Overbull is remarkable because she has given her life to help the Native American people see the value in higher education by teaching and demonstrating. Her life has impacted and inspired hundreds to pursue higher education.