As a part of the National Study of American Indian Education, this document describes the background of the predominantly Eskimo community of Bethel, Alaska. Information was obtained via community observation, interviews, and questionnaires. Specific community characteristics described include location and physical features, population, facilities, economy, housing, health conditions, problems, and trends. The educational system -- physical plant, administration and finance, teaching staff, pupil population, curriculum, parental attitudes, and problems -- is also depicted. The report contains 2 maps. (AL)