Smoke Signals
News & Updates From The SPPS Indian Education Program
St. Paul Public Schools Indian Education Program
Our mission is to assist American Indian students in graduating from high school with a quality education and a positive cultural personal identity.
Email: indianeducation@stpaul.k12.mn.us
Website: https://www.spps.org/indianeducation
Location: 65 East Kellogg Boulevard, Saint Paul, MN, USA
Phone: (651) 293-5191
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StPaulndianEducation/
Welcome to the “Thin-Crusted Moon” Month!
Welcome to the “Thin-crusted Moon” month! We are in the last days of winter, (biiboon). The maple sugar camps will be starting up soon! This is the time of year, our traditional way of life recognizes a new season arrives. Spring, (Ziigwan), is called new beginnings. Mother earth is being renewed. Life sprouts from the ground, leaves come alive, animals birth their babies, and water, (nibi) begins to flow as the ice melts away. This is a time that all things are new. Our elders teach us to shed our old habits, plant new positive ones. Keep building those positive thoughts – teach our children about Mother earth and our connection. We do this by planting a garden, be it food, flowers or trees. Take time to feed the birds, walk in the woods or outdoors. As we begin this season and enjoy the warmer weather, remember there is a need for balance. We still need to complete our chores, school work, and maintain friendships and family ties. This past school year has not been what we may have wanted but we continue to adapt and learn new things. All of this serves to help us become better persons, open up our minds and learn to appreciate change. As once said by a great past leader, "LET US OPEN UP OUR MINDS AND SEE WHAT GREAT THINGS WE CAN CREATE FOR OUR CHILDREN”
Kay Urich, Chemical Health Teacher
Introducing Indian Education Program Staff
Renae Davis
School Social Worker
Anin, I have worked with the Indian Education Program since 1999. I had received my B.A. at the College of St. Catherine and my MSW at the University of St.Thomas/College of St. Catherine.
I enjoy cooking, gardening and fishing. I like trying out new recipes and growing something I haven't grown before, and I love fishing up north and ice fishing.
I am an enrolled member of the Red Lake Nation and live in the Twin Cities area. I am busy raising my grandson and trying to keep him occupied in my spare time. I have two cats.
I always enjoyed helping people. I work with K-12 students and families. I have had students that have kids that I now work with. How awesome is that? I am like a bridge between the school, student and family. If you ever need extra support with your student please feel free to contact me.
Indian Education Program Updates
The end of the school year is coming soon! For us at the SPPS Indian Education Program, that means celebrating our Seniors that will be graduating in June. We have a lot of prep work that goes into Senior Recognition. One of them is beading the Eagle Feathers so they can be given to the students. Graduating is a great accomplishment and we want to ensure that our seniors are recognized for their achievement and hard work.
Each year the Indian Education Program has to find eagle feathers from community members that donate and apply for eagle feathers through the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services National Eagle Repository. If you would be interested in donating eagle feathers please contact the Indian Education Program. All of the feathers go to support our students' achievements. Here is a glimpse at our work!
Here Comes the Sun
We can all look forward to March 20th, the first day of Spring! With the freeze that came through in February I am sure many of you are ready to move to sunnier and longer days. Winter has not been easy for many especially with the pandemic. Maybe it is time to try something new, something to get you recharged and back into balance.
The St. Paul and Minneapolis Native Community have many wonderful options to help support you. We have community organizations that can help with finding balance with your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health.
I am sure many of you have heard of the American Indian Family Center, but have you seen and heard about all the wonderful things they have been doing, even during the pandemic? The American Indian Family Center is located at 579 Wells Street, St. Paul 55130 Phone # 651-793-3803. Click on the link and you will see their website and services they provide. There are services for everyone in the family, there is tutoring for youth, therapy services, Family & Youth Drum Circle, Wellbriety, housing and employment support. The Indian Education Program collaborates with them on many events.
Indian Health Board (IHB) provides many different services such as medical, dental, counseling, and health and wellness. Depending on the service you're looking for there are different locations. The Medical and Dental Clinic is located at 1315 E. 24th Street, Minneapolis 55404 Phone #612-721-9800. The Counseling Center is located at 2101 Minnehaha Ave. Minneapolis 55404 Phone #612-721-9845. The counseling center has services such as individual counseling, psychiatric services, therapy groups, hand drum groups and crisis intervention. Remember we need to care for ourselves both physically and mentally and this is one location that can help with that.
The Native American Community Clinic (NACC) Their mission is to promote health & wellness of mind, body and spirit in Native American families. They value health and tradition, provide high quality care regardless of the ability to pay, and aim to increase health equity for Native American families in the Twin Cities. Everyone is welcome at the clinic and they strive to be a good relative to all. This clinic provides medical and dental and behavioral health services. They are located at 1213 E. Franklin Ave Mpls 55404. Phone #612-872-8086.
There are many great organizations in the Twin Cities area to help support you physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually. Don’t hesitate to call one of them today and find out how they can help you and/or your family.
Since March is Maple Syrup month here is a list of Maple Syruping with Kids in the Twin Cities on this website: Family Fun Twin Cities. There are also online activities for families.
Renae Davis & Nicole Other Medicine, School Social Workers, Indian Education Program
Reclaiming our Traditions Chemical Health Prevention Program
Hello to all our beautiful students and families! As a Licensed Alcohol/Drug Counselor, I have worked in many different scenarios for the past 20 years.. Some of those settings include, in-patient treatment, out-patient treatment, Halfway Houses and Detoxification Centers. However, here at Indian Education my main goal is to support our students who may be exposed and/or struggling with chemical use issues or their effects.
St. Paul Public Schools used to have one Drug/Alcohol Counselor at most every school in the past. However, that has changed and presently, I believe I am the only in the District.
I support our students by meeting with them individually when needed. Sometimes once per week, other times, bi-weekly. I give them information on alcohol, drugs and tobacco and the effects these can have on the body and mind. I provide community resources that may help them to make the necessary changes in their life so they can be successful. I also attend court with students and parents. Mostly related to truancy or any legal charges a student may incur due to their chemical use.
Based on research, it was determined that the Middle School students are at the highest risk of exposure to alcohol and drugs. This is the time in their life that peer pressure can easily influence them in a negative way. Even though my focus is mainly Middle School students, I do provide services to any age student if requested. I also do home visits. In dealing with “addictions”, it is critical that the parents/guardians are fully invested in helping their child to overcome these challenges.
So, if you or someone you know is showing signs of alcohol/drug use – please feel free to refer them to me at the St. Paul Public Schools – Indian Education Program. I can be reached at 651-744-5528 or email: kathryn.urich@spps.org.
Kay Urich, Chemical Health Teacher
Sewing Society
I would like to encourage all seamstresses, beadwork artists and other crafters to keep on bringing the creativity to your families! Now that winter is almost over, comes the warmth of spring on our faces. Renewed energy comes along with that. Take this time to get renewed energy and let the creative energies flow through your fingers!
I would like to remind this year’s seniors and their families that I am here to help with supplies from the Sewing Society for beading your graduation cap. There is a good 3 months to get it done, that is great timing. So please contact me and I can send you the cap color that will match your graduation gown and the supplies to get you started on beading your cap. Email dianna.johnson@spps.org. Call or text 612-723-1922. Please don’t hesitate to ask any other questions about regalia making or beading projects.
Language Learning
Exploring New Foods: White Chicken Enchiladas
Ingredients
- 10 flour Tortillas
- 6 chicken breasts
- 1 taco seasoning
- 1 box Rice a Roni Mexican Style
- 1 small can green Chilies (mild)
- 1 lb of Monterey Jack Cheese (shredded)
- 1 8oz. Cream Cheese
- 2 ½ cups Chicken Broth
- 4 Tbls flour
- Nonstick cooking spray
Cook Chicken Breasts in crockpot until tender. Add I/2 package of Taco Seasoning. When done shred with a fork.
Prepare rice a roni while chicken is cooking. When done add to the shredded chicken.
In a separate pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Mix flour and hot water in a cup to make a roux. Whisk until there are no lumps. Whisk roux into chicken broth, so it slightly thickens. Add the package of cream cheese and ½ of the package of Monterey Jack.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.
Add 1/3 of the cheese mixture to the chicken/rice mixture. Then add drained green chilies. Spray bottom of 13X9 cakepan with cooking spray. Start Assemble.
Spoon cheesy rice/chicken mixture in Tortillas, place in cake pan. When done assembling, pour the remaining cheese sauce and Monterey Jack over the tortillas. Bake for 25-30 minutes until cheese gets golden brown. Remove from oven and let sit for 10 minutes. Serve and Enjoy.
Renae Davis, School Social Worker
Virtual Families of Tradition
Reclaiming our traditions through cultural activities. Meet with other families, and connect with your community.
St. Paul Public Schools Indian Education Program will be holding Virtual Families of Tradition events on the second Thursday each month. Families will virtually gather using Zoom to meet each other and some of our Indian Education Program staff.
Join Zoom Meeting
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/5946005478?pwd=ek81NS9RKzlsRldISEgvR2hOS1ZYQT09
Meeting ID: 594 600 5478
Passcode: FOT1
You can join by phone using the Meeting ID and Passcode listed above by calling (646) 568-7789.
We are looking forward to meeting will everyone virtually. For up to date details please view our Facebook event listing. If you have any questions, please contact Kerri Rosebear-Channer at kerri.rosebear-channer@spps.org or (612) 751-0571.
Thursday, Mar 11, 2021, 06:00 PM
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Virtual SPPS Indian Education Program Powwow
Friday, Mar 12, 2021, 05:00 PM
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SPPS American Indian Parent Advisory Committee Meeting
Advisory to the district
- Conducts regular open meetings
- Approves application and amendments in Title VI and MWBW programs
- Approves Title VI and MWBW budget allocation
- Abides by reasonable by-laws
- And conducts an annual public hearing to gather input from American Indian students and families
The AIPAC shall act as a voice in representing the Indian students and their parents in the district and align our values with the district's purpose and that is to “inspire students to think critically, pursue their dreams and change the world.”
Details and meeting information can be found on the SPPS AIPAC webpage.
For more information and to receive an invitation to the meeting please contact Dominic Good Buffalo, the American Indian Cultural Specialist at the Office of Family Engagement and Community Partnerships, at dominic.goodbuffalo@spps.org or 612-297-9374.
Tuesday, Mar 16, 2021, 05:15 PM
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Board of Education Meeting
The St. Paul Public Schools Board of Education will be meeting at 6:05pm.
Members of the public will be able to monitor the meeting online at https://eduvision.tv/l?RygytL or tune to Saint Paul Cable Channel 16 (for cable subscribers).
An agenda and additional information regarding the St. Paul Public Schools Board of Education is available at https://www.spps.org/boe .
Tuesday, Mar 23, 2021, 06:00 PM
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No School, Parent Teacher Conferences (PreK)
Thursday, Mar 25, 2021, 12:00 AM
St Paul, MN, USA
Digital Learning Day (6th - 8th Grade)
Friday, Mar 26, 2021, 12:00 AM
St Paul, MN, USA
No School, Parent Teacher Conference (PreK - 5th Grade and PreK - 8th Grade Schools)
Friday, Mar 26, 2021, 12:00 AM
St Paul, MN, USA
No School, Teacher Professional Development (PreK - 12th Grade)
Friday, Apr 2, 2021, 12:00 AM
St Paul, MN, USA
No School, Spring Break
Saturday, Apr 3, 2021, 12:00 AM
St Paul, MN, USA
St. Paul Public Schools Resources
Boozhoo, Hau! The AIS staff at AIMS Middle School want you to know that we will be here for your family and students’ needs, whatever they may be during this hard time of distance learning. We will grow together this year even in this Distance Learning 2.0! The AIS program exists to teach ALL students about American Indian culture. This year we are really excited to be able to continue to bring to school many cultural resources, especially for our upcoming Project Based Learning project in Middle School, focused on Social Justice.
Please check the AIMS website for all upcoming events!
This year The AIS staff have been able to offer at AIMS: American Indian Magnet School (A pre-K through 8 School):
- D/Lakota and Ojibwe Language & Culture Class
- American Indian History
- Native Cultural Infused Curriculum
- Woodland Culture Fair
- Plains Culture Fair
- All Indigenous Nations Fair
- American Indian AVID
Jason Bresette, AIS Teacher, AIS Coordinator, and AVID Coordinator at American Indian Magnet School
Distinction in American Indian Studies at Harding High School
The AIS Distinction is an honors program for students that excel in academics, leadership, service and community. They earn over 3.0 GPA in AIS classes, volunteer and participate in the Native community. We are proud to recognize the following seniors who have accomplished this distinction. Between them they have earned nearly 200 volunteer hours in the community, they have stood out as leaders by competing in Language Bowls, presenting Native topics in educational conferences and History Day competitions, and engaged in cultural activities. They will wear an AIS stole over their gowns at graduation, and have the Distinction marked on their final transcripts.
James B.
Alyssa D.
Donovan R.
Kyrin S.
Angie Harper, American Indian Studies Coordinator & Teacher at Harding Senior High
Braided Journeys Program
The ultimate goal of the Braided Journeys Program is to provide our American Indian students with a nurturing, supportive environment for high school success. The Braided Journeys Coaches will facilitate the program at each school. By focusing on the elements of the Medicine Wheel (Transitioning, In-School Support, Cultural Enrichment, and Family Involvement), the Coach will be available to build a sense of community and belonging for our American Indian students.
Benefits of the Program
- Academic support during and after school
- Cultural enrichment through speakers, field trips, and after school activities
- Family and community involvement and support
- Mental Health Support available and as requested through a collaboration with the American Indian Family Center
Braided Journeys Program Staff
- Como Park High School: Angie Hernandez, 651-744-0134, angelina.hernandez@spps.org
- Harding High School: Jack Auginash, 651-744-7382, jack.auginash@spps.org
- Johnson High School: Julia Littlewolf, 651-744-8447, julia.littlewolf@spps.org
Community Resources & Events
Mondays, 5:00pm – 7:00pm
(797 East 7th St., St. Paul, MN 55106)
Each week, Canasta Familiar receives donations that includes fresh produce (fruits and vegetables), meat and other non-perishable items. Foods vary according to availability. Families can choose their food and select the items that are most appropriate for their home. There is a limit of one basket per family.
Saturdays
9:00am
1280 Arcade St, St. Paul, MN 55106
Receive fresh dairy products, meats, produce, and breads, plus personal care and pantry goods. We can provide each household with food twice per month and there needs to be an adult to receive food on behalf of each household. Please keep that in mind when you plan to visit us.
Tuesdays & Thursdays
2:00pm - 4:00pm.
(900 Dale Street N St. Paul, MN 555103)
Free groceries, items may vary. Walk ups welcome, if you are driving stay in your car, they will load food for you.
St. Paul West 7th Street Salvation Army
Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays, 11:00am – 3:00pm
(401 7th St W, St. Paul, MN 55102)
Emergency boxes of groceries are available for contact-less pick up, no appointment necessary.
Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer
Hundreds of thousands of Minnesota children may be eligible for additional food benefits through P-EBT, short for Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer. The graphic below can help parents understand what they may need to do.
The graphic refers to Community Eligibility Provision CEP schools. A list of these schools is online at mn.gov/dhs/p-ebt/cep-schools/.
Learn more about P-EBT at mn.gov/dhs/p-ebt/.
Seed Week: Seed Planting Workshop
Wednesday, Mar 10, 2021, 07:00 PM
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Bois Forte Mobile Vaccine Machine
Thursday, Mar 18, 2021, 12:00 AM
1308 E Franklin Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404, USA
History Forum: Shadow Nations with N. Bruce Duthu
Native American tribes have long been recognized as “domestic, dependent nations” in the United States, with powers of self-government that operate within the tribes’ sovereign territories. Yet, over the years, Congress, and more recently, the US Supreme Court, have steadily eroded these tribal powers, moving the US away from its early promise of pluralism toward empire. Instead of enjoying the nation-to-nation relationships established during America’s formative years, Native American tribes withstood war, forced removal, land allotment, and urban relocation policies that eroded sovereignty and impeded self-governance.
In the 21st century, how might the Native and non-Native societies that cohabit in our nation learn from this history and work together to revitalize the pluralism on which the United States was founded?
This program will be hosted live on Zoom and also available as a recording on Facebook and YouTube. Registration is required.
N. Bruce Duthu is the Samson Occom Professor of Native American Studies at Dartmouth College. An enrolled member of the United Houma Nation, Professor Duthu is the author of American Indians and the Law and Shadow Nations: Tribal Sovereignty and the Limits of Legal Pluralism.
Registration available at https://cart.mnhs.org/53507/53512 .
Tuesday, Mar 23, 2021, 06:30 PM
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Book Launch: Minnesota Native American Lives Series
Celebrate the Minnesota Native American Lives Series! MHC and the Minnesota Indian Affairs Council have partnered to publish three new books written for 3rd-5th graders, all included on the American Indians in Children’s Literature Best Books list of 2020. This series shares the biographies of Dakota and Ojibwe leaders: Ella Cara Deloria, Charles Albert Bender, and Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. Hear from youth who have read the books as they share their favorite parts and engage the authors in discussion. This lively book launch will include book giveaways and a Q&A session with the series authors.
Learn more & register: https://mnhum.org/event/minnesota-native-american-lives-series/
Thursday, Mar 25, 2021, 06:30 PM
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Gather. Make. Sustain. | Marlena Myles
Join the Haffenreffer Museum for a series of workshops, artist talks, and demonstrations featuring Indigenous artists who work in a variety of mediums. Learn how these artists create environmentally and culturally sustainable artwork, as well as maintain traditional knowledge systems through the act of gathering materials and stories.
Part 5: Marlena Myles | Indigenous Narratives in a Modern Age
Wednesday, March 31st.
Register: bit.ly/GMS_Mar31
We look at the ways Marlena Myles (Spirit Lake Dakota/Mohegan/Muscogee Creek) uses technology to relate and sustain ancient traditions into a new age. The modernity of digitalization has the ability to mix and combine the future with the past, bringing Indigenous understandings and philosophies into consciousness -- a newfound awareness of Native presence.
Free and open to the public. Pre-registration required via Zoom.
Wednesday, Mar 31, 2021, 11:00 AM
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Answer To A Valentine's Riddle
A deck of cards