December Newsletter

To support and strengthen increased educational outcomes for American Indian students by promoting culturally responsive instruction, family and student engagement and partnerships with MPS departments, schools and the broader community.

American Indian students are empowered to reach their full potential through educational experiences that value their cultural identities.

The Minneapolis school board swore in its newest member last week.

Lucie Skjefte, a Red Lake Tribal member, and former chair of the Minneapolis Public Schools’ American Indian Parent Advisory Committee represents District 3, which includes much of south Minneapolis. She replaces Faheema Feerayarre, who resigned her post in September.

Skjefte and five others applied for the open position. After interviewing finalists, school board members used a ranked-choice voting process to select their new colleague. When all the ranked-choice votes had been tallied, Skjefte and another finalist, social worker and district parent Fatimah Hussein, tied. A coin flip put Skjefte over the top. “It was like the Creator decided,” Skjefte said.

Here are more articles focused on Director Skjefte's newest position:

New Minneapolis school board member Lucie Skjefte is a longtime advocate for Native students

‘It’s a beautiful way to maintain our identity.’ New MPS Board member hopes to expand language immersion for Indigenous students

Minneapolis school board turns to coin flip to fill vacant District 3 seat

Requests will be accepted in person and via ExploreMPS.org ending on January 31st, 2025.

For any questions or concerns please contact Jennifer Graff, Student Enrollment and Retention Specialist American Indian Liaison, at jennifer.graff@mpls.k12.mn.us or call 612-668-1814.

City Wide/Magnet Schools

Spanish Dual Language (PreK-12): Emerson Dual Language, Green Central Dual Language, Sheridan Dual Language, Andersen United Middle School (Dual Language Magnet within), Roosevelt Spanish Dual Immersion

STEM/STEAM (PreK-8): Hall STEM, Franklin STEAM Middle School, Sullivan STEM

Other citywide programs: Anishinabe Academy (American Indian MOA), Heritage Academy, Longfellow (pregnant and parenting teens), South All Nations, South Open, Wellstone International, Minneapolis Academy and Career Center (MACC)

American Indian MOA/Best Practice Sites: Anishinabe Academy, Northeast Middle School, Sanford Middle School, Edison High School, South High School including All Nations and contract alternative schools Takoda Prep, and Nawayee Center School. These sites offer Ojibwe/Dakota language courses. Transportation provided, please reach out for specific questions. The MOA can be found HERE.

Your student has a bright future. A great school makes it possible. Find that school that meets your child’s individual needs. Join us on January 11th at the Minneapolis School Finder Fair!

What: Minneapolis K-12 School Finder Fair

When: Saturday, January 11, 2025, 10AM-2PM

Who: Families and students seeking a Minneapolis School

Where: Minneapolis College (formerly MCTC) Plaza – T Building, 1415 Hennepin Ave

RSVP: Click HERE

Transportation: Download Your Metro Transit Free Ride Pass!

This is the MPS 2024-2025 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR for you to keep up to date with days off, holidays and breaks for your student/s.

Please click the LINK to view lunch menus for your student/s. It is organized by Preschool, Elementary, Middle School and High School.

Are you or someone you know interested in volunteering at a MPS School?

Please click the LINK to get started!

THURSDAY DECEMBER 19TH, 2024 @ 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM (Virtual ONLY)

Google Meet Log In: https://meet.google.com/tsq-cqxa-cgh

Dial In: +​1​ ​4​1​5​-​7​3​7​-​9​7​1​1 PIN: 7​9​7​ ​5​1​8​ ​5​1​0​#

These meetings are open to ALL students, families and community members to attend. We welcome all to come talk about how we can create better opportunities for our American Indian students within MPS. Please contact Christine Wilson, Family Engagement Coordinator, at Christine.wilson@mpls.k12.mn.us If you have any questions, concerns, need assistance or would like to engage with other families OR for more information OR with any questions.

AIPAC running agenda click HERE.

This year the American Indian Education Department created a calendar for the 2024 - 2025 school year. This calendar will reflect events that are going on within the department and the broader community. This calendar is updated daily. Please click the link for most recent information.

Ally will be supporting Ella Baker K - 8th, Sullivan STEM K - 8th, MPS Online Pre-K - 8th, Pratt Elementary, Green Elementary, Lyndale Elementary, Lake Harriet Upper/Lower, Burroughs Elementary and Cityview Elementary.

Indian Education currently has ten School Success Program Assistants located at Elementary Schools, Middle Schools and High Schools. They provide American Indian Affinity & Culture groups. If you would like to connect with any of the SSPA's please click the corresponding link for contact information and which school they are located:

To see a full list of site specific American Indian affinity groups click HERE

We started November entering the New Moon phase of Gashkadino-giizis (Freezing Water Moon) or Thahé Čapšúŋ Wí (Deer Shedding Antlers Moon). We start each group by smudging with sage to help ground us and start group off in a good way. Students created fidgets resembling corn made from pipe cleaners and multi-colored pony beads. While they were creating these fidgets we had a conversation about the 3 sisters (corn, beans and squash) and how they are planted together, needing each other to grow to feed the people. We end group by saying “see you later/see you next time” in both Ojibwe and Dakota: Gigawaabamin naagaj or Tókša Akhé.

- Ms. Alexis, Ms. Alyssa, Ms. Amanda, Ms. Ally and Mr. Gary

Boozhoo giinawaa,

First I would like to say it is an honor to be able to work with your students at the middle school level. The insight they bring to our Affinity groups space is amazing and uplifting, and your students are a joy to be around and make our schools and community a better place everyday. This month our groups have focused on the importance of the birch tree and its vital resources. We finished our lesson by creating birch bark medallions, which the students cut and designed from scratch. I would have loved to share a picture of all of the creations but my photography skills need work, so here is a small image. Please feel free to reach out with any questions. We have many more exciting projects to finish this school year, and I am looking forward to the continued work with your students.

Miigwech,

Mr. Patrick, Mr. Dennis and Ms. Ally

This year the high school team welcomed Kris Winkelman, as the new Cultural Liaison at our Contract Alternative Programs across the District. He kicked off his first month of Cultural Affinity groups by getting to know the students over the art of beading. On the Southwest and Northwest side of the District, Justis Brokenrope, worked with students to finish off their beaded wristlets from last Spring and moved into making medicine pouches. On the South and Northeast side of the District, Madison Smith, worked with students to create representation throughout their school buildings whether that was through murals, posters, or open conversations with staff. One thing all three Cultural Liaisons shared was showing up and supporting students at their American Indian Family Involvement events and celebrating all that is our community!

- Ms. Madison, Mr. Justis and Mr. Kris

We had a great Fall Feast and Powwow on Nov. 22nd at North High School. We had ceremony and brought in our department Eagle staff for the first time. In addition, we recognized students who had 100% attendance and students who were on the "A "or "B" honor roll in Q1. Along with recognized our High School American Indian Youth Council and AIPAC student representatives. In addition, we also held space for families to learn more about where their child is at with reading and ways they could be supported at home. Our families should watch the mail for a literacy report if they were not able to attend. We hope all that joined us had a great evening!

Click HERE to sign up.

Jennifer Graff

jennifer.graff@mpls.k12.mn.us or call 612-668-1814

I am descended from Chief Maangozid (Loon’s Foot) of Fond du Lac through my mother, Joyce LaPorte. My pride and joy is my grandson Thane Cuoi Makwa and his dad, my son, Mykl, is my greatest accomplishment. MPS has been my employer since August of 2000. Various roles withing the Special Education arena but did have positions in North HS and Stadium View which were both very meaningful positions/places to work.

Do you know someone who is interested in attending MPS or do you personally need assistance in transferring schools? MPS now has Jennifer Graff, Student Enrollment & Retention Specialist, American Indian Liaison, who is available to work with any American Indian family that has enrollment, student placement questions or would like to request a new school for next year.

If you would like to explore school options click here

If your student is already attending a school in MPS and you are interested in moving schools, please complete this form

Melody Iron Eaglefeather

melody.ironeaglefeather@mpls.k12.mn.us

Han mitakupaye,

My name is Melody Iron EagleFeather and I'm an enrolled member of Standing Rock Tribe. I was born and raised in Minneapolis. I grew up going to Minneapolis Public Schools and have always wanted to contribute to my community in some way. I work as an Associate Educator in the Early Childhood and Family Education program. I invite all my Native relatives to join me and my amazing colleague, Teacher Priya, Thursday nights for our Families of Tradition class where we share a hot meal and discuss important topics regarding raising our children and their development. We also have fun activities for the children, including gym time.

I look forward to continuing my work for Minneapolis Public Schools and plan on getting my license soon.

Aliya Rivera Sullivan

Engagement, Education & Outreach Specialist

aliya.rivera-sullivan@mpls.k12.mn.us or call/text 612-462-2660

Questions, concerns, or looking to connect with District staff but unsure where to start? Aliya Rivera is a resource within the District to provide navigation and district wide engagement support for American Indian families!

Mitchell Roldan

Director of the Ombudsperson

mitchell.roldan@mpls.k12.mn.us

612-668-0234

An ombudsperson is someone who listens to and investigates complaints or concerns about an organization. The Office of the Ombudsperson can assist families who have questions, concerns or complaints against MPS schools, programs, offices, and staff. The Ombudsperson is a neutral party who does not take sides.

They work with families, community members, and MPS to investigate complaints, clarify and resolve questions, and address concerns in an impartial and timely manner. The services of the Ombudsperson are free. The Ombudsperson is an objective third-party whose goal is to work with people who have a problem with MPS to find a solution.

Please click HERE if you would like to submit a concern.

Christine Wilson

Family Engagement Coordinator

White Earth Nation

christine.wilson@mpls.k12.mn.us or call/text 612-715-0864

Want to learn more about how to get engaged with the Indian Education Department? Christine Wilson is an expert in the district wide support services in Indian Education. She is a key lead for several initiatives including the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (AIPAC), American Indian Awareness & Family Involvement Week and the Attendance work group.

Aquila Tapio

District Program Facilitator (Focus on Special Education supports)

Oglala Lakota

aquila.tapio@mpls.k12.mn.us

Aquila Tapio, Oglala Lakota, joins the American Indian Education Department as the District Program Facilitator (DPF) focusing on Special Education and MDE’s Dream Catcher Project. Since 2012, she has been at South High School as a Reading Intervention Teacher and Special Education Resource Teacher. Aquila graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1999 and went on to earn her special education teaching licenses and Master’s Degree in Education from Augsburg University. She and her husband have three children and live in South Minneapolis. Aquila enjoys creating beadwork, quillwork, and dentalium earrings, as well as, sewing ribbon skirts and star quilts. She is excited to begin her new position and to support students and families in MPS.

If you or someone you may know have a interest in sharing a opportunity on this section please email Aliya Rivera -Sullivan at aliya.rivera-sullivan@mpls.k12.mn.us.

Now taking emails to be featured in the newsletter for January until December 31st, 2024.

Come be part of the MIGIZI circle! Our paid internships for high schoolers are NOW OPEN for our winter cohorts! You may apply to our programs here! To apply to our Internship programs (Green Tech and First Person Productions), please navigate to "Indigenous Pathways" before filling out the form.

The Green Tech and First Person Productions interviews will take place the week of December 9th from 4-5pm at our space, and the application will close on December 12th. Note that CLAW will not be conducting interviews, but rather sessions to come in and fill out stipendiary paperwork during this time, for those who are accepted into the program. Here is a bit more information on MIGIZI's Winter Cohorts:

Program Details:

Dates: Monday, January 6th - Thursday, February 27th

Time: Monday - Thursday | 4:00 - 6:00 pm |

Location: 1845 E Lake St Minneapolis MN 55407

Deadline to apply: Thursday, December 12th 5pm

First Person Productions Internship:

From filmmaking and podcasting to social media marketing — FPP pays young people to learn the mechanics of media while empowering our young people to be the next generation of Native storytellers. This cohort, youth will utilize digital media to explore the theme of "Who Are Your People?" This program is a paid internship for Native youth 14-21 years old, where youth may earn an hourly wage (up to 8 hr/ week), and have access to tutoring, credit recovery and academic support.

Green Tech Internship:

Our Green Tech Internship is a program where high schoolers get paid to learn about STEM from an Indigenous perspective. This cohort's focus will be on Winter Storytelling! This program is a paid internship for Native youth 14-21 years old, where youth may earn an hourly wage (up to 8 hr/ week), and have access to tutoring, credit recovery and academic support.

CLAW After School Program:

Our Culture, Leadership, Academic and Wellness program is open for Native youth between the ages of 13-16! While CLAW is not an employment program, youth have the opportunity to earn stipends dependent on participation and attendance. In this program, youth will be going on fun field trips, visiting with elders for cultural teachings, receiving tutoring, credit recovery and academic support- and much more!

Link to Zoom click HERE.

SMSC's first ever fashion show this November in conjunction with the We Are Water MN traveling exhibit coming to Hoċokata Ṫi October 10-December 7. The show, taking place on November 21st, from 5-8pm, will explore the theme “Water Fits All” and will feature designs from Native Artists Bill Brien, Georgina Drapeau, Marlena Myles, Kayla Lookinghorse, and Jocy and Trae Little Sky. The evening will also feature DJ AO appearing as a live DJ, Redwing Thomas as emcee, a welcome reception, and more. Preregistration is required for this free event with more details to come: We Are Water MN Events

Please click here for RSVP.

Our Sacred Gift: Carrying Our Babies in a Good Way

with Bonnie Fairbanks, Leech Lake Ojibwe tribal member

December 11, 2025 at 6 pm - 7:30 pm CST via Zoom

Registration Deadline: December 6, 2024, click HERE to register

So many of us were not given good teachings about birthing our babies, due to many reasons. Our mothers and grandmothers did not receive them, removal, death, colonization and so many other reasons. We will visit a bit about carrying our babies in a good way.

Registrants will receive the zoom link via email on December 9.

Bonnie Fairbanks is an Anishinaabe Grandmother from the Leech Lake Nation. Currently working as a cultural advisor for Gaa-zagaswaasjiiekaag Inaadiziwin, Leech Lake Behavioral Health. Working with staff and families to access cultural needs and provide services for health, healing, and wellness.

Funded by AICHO's Waaseyaa Traditional Healing Grant via Minnesota Department of Human Services Behavioral Health Division.

Click HERE to join now.