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FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. (AP) - A proposal to split a school district dominated by American Indian students has raised tensions in northwestern New Mexico communities.

The school board has opposed the divide, with its president saying it's reminiscent of the days of segregation.

Supporters contend it will give parents a choice of which schools best fit their children and an avenue to boost educational standards.

Rather than be divided by race, the Central Consolidated School District would be split geographically, with the Navajo reservation serving as the boundary. A second district still would be overwhelmingly Navajo.

New Mexico education officials are to issue a decision Tuesday.

Another option includes parts of the reservation in a new district, but some have argued that the signatures weren't gathered correctly for that to be considered.