May-June 2019


Boozhoo (Hello),
 
It appears Summer is here! After a cooler than usual Spring, we've had much welcomed warmer temperatures and sunshine. I hope you are enjoying this busy time of year. As another academic year comes to an end, I'd like to personally congratulate all graduates - whether you or someone you love is moving on from middle school, high school or higher education - I congratulate all of your accomplishments and wish you nothing but success in your future journey.

To recap our successful 2019 WIEA Conference 12 Nations, 2 Worlds, 1 People , I want to send a sincere miigwech (thank you) to all who participated. Our conference planning committee, led by committee chair Gladys Walker, did an outstanding job in executing the conference. As many of you know, it is a monumental undertaking to put together an event the size of our conference. Our presenters and their workshops once again did fantastic in bringing together Native culture and education, which is the foundation of the conference. Our dignitaries also showed their commitment to Indian education through their presence and participation. Governor Tony Evers, a staunch ally of WIEA and Indian Country, demonstrated his ongoing support for our efforts by addressing conference participants on the first full-day of our conference. Likewise, Ho-Chunk President Wilfrid Cleveland, Department of Public Instruction Superintendent Carolyn Stanford-Taylor, Wisconsin Rapids Mayor Zach Vruwink and Wisconsin Rapids Public Schools Superintendent Craig Broeren showed their support for our efforts by each offering a welcoming. Our keynote speakers shared heartfelt and compelling messages of their respective journeys through their careers, education and lives. 

A big thank you goes out to Stockbridge-Munsee Community President Shannon Holsey, UW-Stevens Point Professor Alton "Sonny" Smart, Lac du Flambeau School Music Teacher Lisa Hernandez and owner of Abel Ones Sports and motivational speaker Ruben "Big Rue" Santiesteban for their participation as keynote speakers. I also want to acknowledge the Andrew Blackhawk Legion Post 129 Veterans for taking care of our flags and staffs, as well as the Thunderbear Singers for their good songs. Most importantly, I want to thank our sponsors and attendees, for without their continued support, none of this would be possible. On behalf of the Wisconsin Indian Education Association and our board of directors, miigwech (thank you).

I also want to take this opportunity to congratulate all of our 2019 WIEA Award recipients and their families on their accomplishments. Your educational success is Indian Country's success! You inspire not only us here at WIEA but each and every one of your communities. 

As we move into Summer mode, I'm hopeful you'll mark your calendars for another big WIEA event in August. On August 19, Lake of the Torches Resort Casino Convention Center in Lac du Flambeau will host our annual Act 31 Celebration. This year marks the 30th year of Act 31. As many of you know, Act 31 came to life out of treaty rights protests targeting Ojibwe spearers. Known to the other Ojibwe bands as "Waaswaaganing" or "The place where they spear fish by torch light", the Ojibwe people of Lac du Flambeau were heavily targeted by non-Indian protesters in the mid-to-late 1980s and early 1990s because of their proficiency as spearers. Many of these protests were ugly in nature. The use of racial epithets, slurs and even physical violence against the Ojibwe became common place. The protests weren't isolated to Lac du Flambeau - all the Ojibwe bands were targeted. A tense atmosphere prevailed across much of the northern half of the state and the racial discrimination spread to other tribal nations and their members in the state. It was a turbulent time in modern Wisconsin history. Thanks in part to the work of people like Alan Caldwell, Tom Maulson and many others, Act 31 became law in 1989. While we have a long way to go, the groundwork was laid for public schools to incorporate more accurate curriculum of the history of Wisconsin's original inhabitants. Ongoing work by the State/Tribal Relations Committee and WIEA to strengthen Act 31 has proposed changes one step closer to becoming law. These changes will beef up the language contained within the Act and help the general public better understand not only Native Americans, but other minority groups as well. Invited speakers for the Act 31 Celebration include Tribal leaders, Gov. Tony Evers, Sup. of Public Instruction Carolyn Stanford-Taylor, Senator Lena Taylor and may others. The celebration begins at 4 pm and is expected to run until 8 pm. We'll have a number of presentations, a viewing of the PBS documentary "Lighting the Seventh Fire", a feast and more. As we confirm our speakers and schedule of events, more information will be forthcoming. I look forward to seeing everyone there!

In the coming months, our thoughts are drawn to pow-wows, festivals, family gatherings, traveling, baseball and other outdoor activities. Summer is a time for celebrating life and our connection to the earth. I hope you make the most of this time, just as I will. 

Until then, giigawaabamin (I'll see you again),

Brian Jackson
Board President,
Wisconsin Indian Education Association

Thank You to our 2019 Conference Sponsors, Partners and Participants

The Wisconsin Indian Education Association would like to thank the sponsors, partners and participants of our 2019, 12 Nations, 2 Worlds, 1 People Conference. Without your continued support, none of our efforts would be possible. We sincerely thank you for your time, energy, in-kind contributions and monetary sponsorship. Special thank you goes out to the Indian Community School in Milwaukee for hosting a special candlelight reception on Friday evening. We appreciate your commitment to Indian education and look forward to partnering with you in the near future!




Wisconsin Indian Education Association 2019 Conference 12 Nations, 2 Worlds, 1 People in Pictures

The Wisconsin Indian Education Association's 2019 Conference 12 Nations, 2 Worlds, 1 People brought together close to 300 people over the course of three days, April 25-27, 2019, at the Hotel Mead & Conference Center in Wisconsin Rapids, WI. The University of Wisconsin Earth Partnership Indigenous Arts and Sciences Initiative hosted a pre-conference Native Pathways Education Forum/Workshop on April 25th. 

The conference provided over 30 workshop/presentations, keynote addresses and updates on all things related to Indian education, Native culture, identity and health/fitness.  

Take a look at the 2019 Conference in pictures (and videos) below!


























Wisconsin Indian Education Association 2019 Conference Opening Ceremonies
Wisconsin Indian Education Association 2019 Conference Opening Ceremonies
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers at WIEA 2019 Conference
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers at WIEA 2019 Conference















You may also view more pictures and videos on our Facebook Page and YouTube channel!
Northern Woodland Indian Art Show & Market


Northern Woodland Indian Art Show & Market

June 28-30, 2019
 
Seven Winds Casino Events Center 
13767 W County Road B Hayward, WI 54843 

Northern Woodland Indian Art Show 
10828 Beal Ave, Apt 2w, Hayward, WI 54843 

Application below, instructions are in the file, if there are any questions please feel free to contact us.

Coordinator: Michael Clarquist
Cell Phone: 715-558-9282
Facebook: fb.me/northernwoodlandindianartshow
WIEA caucus and annual elections

WIEA regions meet to caucus at the 2019 conference on April 26.
The Wisconsin Indian Education Association held its annual caucus and elections on April 26, 2019, at the Hotel Mead and Conference Center at the WIEA 2019 Conference 12 Nations, 2 Worlds, 1 People in Wisconsin Rapids. The elections saw a few changes to the composition of the board of directors and officers.

Elected as the new vice president of WIEA was Rebecca Comfort, who replaces sitting board member Susan Crazy Thunder. Comfort is mid-way through her two-year term, which expires in 2020. 

Newly elected board members include Deana Milch (West Region) and Verna Comfort (South Region). 

Returning incumbent board members re-elected to new terms include Katrina Werchouski (Northwest Region), Celeste Clark (Southeast Region), Dr. Jolene Bowman (Central Region), Susan Crazy Thunder (Northeast Region) and Shannon Chapman (East Region). 

Sitting board president Brian Jackson (Northeast Region), board members Gladys Walker (Central Region), Doreen Wawronowicz (Northeast Region), Brittany LeMere (West Region), Rachel Byington (South Region) and treasurer Virginia Nuske, all have terms which expire in 2020.

WIEA board of directors president Brian Jackson said he is excited to begin work with the new and returning board members.

 "Congratulations to our incoming board members on their election to the board," said WIEA board president Brian Jackson. "I look forward working with each and every person in our mission to further Indian education," added Jackson.

Each term is for a period of two-years and is on a volunteer basis.
Hayward Schools host Annual Pow-wow

Photos from the Hayward School Pow-wow held on Friday, May 10 at the Intermediate School fields. The powwow was held for K-5th grade. The Middle/High School powwow was held that morning.









Information & photo credit: www.lcotribe.com/Joe Morey

Native Nations UW Leadership Summit highlights directions for partnerships

Among the leaders attending the summit were (standing from left to right) Aaron Bird Bear, assistant dean for student diversity programs, School of Education; LeAnn White, vocational/higher education transition coordinator, Lac du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians;Tribal Council Member Jessica Ryan, Brothertown Indian Nation; Don Rosin, human resources manager, Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians; Vice President Jolene Bowman, Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohican Indians; Patrick Sims, UW-Madison chief diversity officer; Thomas Boelter, administrator of education and culture, Forest County Potawatomi; Mic Isham, executive administrator of the Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission and past chairman of the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa; Yvette McGeshick, education director, Sokaogon Chippewa Community Mole Lake Band of Lake Superior Chippewa; Paul Robbins, dean, Nelson Institute for Environmental Studies; Legislator Gunnar Peters, Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin; Soyeon Shim, dean, School of Human Ecology; Sarah Mangelsdorf, UW-Madison provost; Larry Nesper, director of American Indian Studies and professor of Anthropology; and Jessie Conaway, co-chair of the Native Nations_UW Working Group and faculty associate, Nelson Institute. Seated from left to right are Charles Hoslet, vice chancellor of university relations; Tribal Council Member Dylan Jennings, Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa; Tribal Advisory Council Member Nehoma Thundercloud, Ho-Chunk Nation; Chancellor Rebecca Blank; Chairman Tehassi Hill, Oneida Nation; Michael Decorah, NN_UW Advisory Council delegate, St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin; and Tribal Chairman Mike Wiggins Jr., Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa.
The University of Wisconsin-Madison and the 12 Native Nations in Wisconsin met May 10 for a day of discussion about new and ongoing partnerships to improve health services, preserve the environment, develop local economies, strengthen families, and expand educational opportunities.

Among the announcements at the Native Nations UW Leadership Summit: the university and the Tribes will collaboratively pursue the creation of a culturally responsive research center on indigenous issues, and UW-Madison will hire a tribal relations liaison to identify opportunities and facilitate communication between UW-Madison and tribal governments in Wisconsin on matters of shared interest. The position will jointly report to the Office of the Vice Chancellor for University Relations and the Division of Extension.

"It's wonderful to see the enthusiasm in this room - and back on campus - as we explore ways we can work more closely together," UW-Madison Chancellor Rebecca Blank said.

The summit in Madison was the second such gathering for university officials and representatives from 12 tribes. About 80 people attended.

The first summit, in 2015, was convened as a centennial event commemorating the Society of American Indians' visit to campus in 1914. This led to the creation the following year of the Native Nations_UW Working Group. The group was charged by the provosts of UW-Madison, University of Wisconsin Colleges, and the University of Wisconsin Extension to partner with Native Nations in Wisconsin on a range of educational, research and outreach initiatives.

"I really like that we're here today, and I'm really encouraged by what's going on," said Mic Isham Jr., executive administrator of the Great Lakes Indian Fish & Wildlife Commission and former chairman of the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. "The partnership feels genuine. I think it will have valuable benefits, and not just on the research end, but also in how many Native students are at UW-Madison and how the university can better support them."

Thomas Boelter, administrator of education and culture for the Forest County Potawatomi, said the most important thing is that everyone is together in the same room.

"We won't be able to get anyplace until we at least begin the dialogue, so I believe there's hope for the future," he said. "I believe the UW System can help the Tribes as much as the Tribes can help them. It can be an equal partnership."

The idea for an indigenous collaborative research center has been developing on campus for decades, said Jessie Conaway, co-chair of the Native Nations UW Working Group and a faculty associate at the Nelson Institute. A draft planning proposal describes the governance structure as an advisory board with 50 percent representation from Native Nations and the university.

The center would build culturally responsive research capacity on campus, develop research opportunities for students, facilitate joint grant-writing opportunities, and ensure that the research is community driven and results in local benefits for Tribes.

"The center can help us build more robust research collaborations involving and supporting tribal communities, particularly in Wisconsin but throughout the Great Lakes Region," Blank said.

Feedback on the proposed center was largely enthusiastic, with caveats. Patty Loew, a professor in the Medill School of Journalism and director of the Center for Native American and Indigenous Research at Northwestern University, said such a center, to be culturally sensitive and responsive, will need to operate differently than UW-Madison's many other research centers. Everything from the way funds are secured to how research results are used will need to be addressed, said Loew, who has a deep history with UW-Madison and the working group.

"The university is really going to have to think about structurally changing the way it does research if it really wants to partner with Native people," she said.

Jessica Ryan, a tribal council member with Brothertown Indian Nation, said she appreciates that all 12 tribes are at the table and that they are being included in every stage of development, including the brainstorming phase. Too often, tribes are consulted only toward the end of a planning process, she said.

"I'm grateful for the conversation from the outset - the dreaming - and I ask that you continue that so that we can come together in a meaningful way," she said.

The summit also served to renew existing commitments. Several faculty members and students showcased projects that are helping the university meet the priorities set out in the working group's strategic plan. Among those priorities, the university:
  • Hosts pre-college programs for Tribal youth, and its admissions team now makes regular visits to high schools identified as having large Native populations - not only in Wisconsin but in New Mexico, Arizona, and North and South Dakota.
  • Has hired four new Native American faculty and will hire three more in a new research cluster that will focus on "Native American Environment, Community and Health." Additionally, the UW System has hired an American Indian Student Success Coordinator.
     
  • Held its first cultural responsiveness training for faculty, staff and administrators. More are planned.
     
  • Welcomes tribal leaders and educators to campus through a new Elders-in-Residence Program.
     
     
Article by Doug EricksonMay 15, 2019, UW-Madison News
Click here for original article.
Board President Brian Jackson presents the proposed Act 31 changes to tribal leaders at the May 16 Chippewa Federation meeting in Danbury, WI. 
WIEA presents to the Chippewa Federation 

WIEA board president Brian Jackson met with Ojibwe tribal leaders at the May 2019, Chippewa Federation meeting at the St. Croix Casino in Danbury, WI. Jackson was requested to provide an update on the proposed changes to WI Act 31 (click here to view the proposed Bills).

The Chippewa Federation is a conglomeration of Ojibwe tribes from across the Great Lakes region. The organization was formed to address common social, political, environmental, economic and treaty issues. You can learn more about the Chippewa Federation here or www.chippewafederation.com.

Watch for subsequent WIEA news and updates to monitor the progress of the proposed Bills relative to WI Act 31.
Act 31 Celebration: Celebrating 30 Years of Act 31 - August 19, 2019





Sponsorship opportunities

If you or your organization would like to sponsor the 2019 Act 31 Celebration or any other WIEA event, please take a look at our  WIEA sponsorship kit for more information!

Bad River Tribal Education Department

 Bad River Education News
 
We provide the following need-based educational services for enrolled Bad River tribal members:
  • Higher Educational Scholarship - awards up to $1800/yr while attending a four - year university; 10 semesters max.
  • Adult Vocational Training Scholarship - awards up to $ 1800/yr while attending a two-year technical college; 6 semesters max.
  • Graduate School Scholarship - awards up $3600/year while attending gradate school; AIGC denial required.
  • Other-Adult Education - awards up to $1,000 for a certification/license training; 2x/lifetime max
  • GED/HSED Assistance - exam costs assistance
  • Direct Employment Assistance - for Tribal members in need of work supplies; must be within 30 days of hire; 3x/lifetime max
 
Contact Ashley Bates for an application of the program that best suits your needs.
  Ashley Bates 
Administrative Assistant
 
P: (715) 682-7111 ext. 1533 
Email: [email protected]

 *Priority deadline is July 15th of each year.  After this date, scholarships are awarded on a first come, first serve basis until funds are depleted. 
***AS OF APRIL 2015, BAD RIVER TRIBAL COUNCIL VOTED DUE TO BUDGET CUTS WE WILL NOT BE ABLE TO SERVE BAD RIVER TRIBAL MEMBERS LIVING OUTSIDE THE STATE OF WI***
  

 
Events:
Fourth graders can obtain a pass  that grants free access to federal lands and waters nationwide for them and their family.
Grandparents Cafes ~ for grandparents raising their grandchildren
Literacy Link ~ FREE reading visiting program for children with a parent in Ashland County Jail
Ojibwe Language Learners:
  

Trainings:
 

 
 Scholarship Downloads:
The following links are additional scholarship opportunities from other resources.  These are not the Bad River scholarships we offer. .
  • www.cobellscholar.org  
    these scholarship funds will eventually be depleted; apply while you still can!

Forest County Potawatomi Tribal Education Department

Message from FCP Education Administrator Thomas Boelter

The Creator has blessed us - we have a lot to be grateful for. We wake up each morning giving thanks for being alive and able to enjoy the wonderful gifts. We give thanks to our elders for the wisdom they offer us. We think about yesterday and are thankful that today can be an even better day.
Recognizing that we can't be in control of all things is sometimes hard. We want what is best for all of those around us. Our job is to create an environment where all those spirits around us can be successful. We can only control our self, but we must show respect for all those around us.
These past few years, we the community have been very successful creating this environment as I have mentioned above. The fruits of our work can be seen in the majority of our children with an average of 95% of our youth graduating in the last 4 years, and slightly more than 80% going to college or a trade school.
While we celebrate for those that have been successful, we continue to look for ways to improve our environment until all of our community can be a part of this positive direction. It is for this reason, I am grateful to our leadership for their decision to make a major investment which will bring more opportunity for positive growth.
The development of a new Community Center "Recreation Center" will provide a place that fosters positive growth in many needed areas. It will provide a place for many new beginnings. I am very excited for this center to be a start of an extension to enhanced educational opportunity, with the potential to start our own school or higher levels of education.  Most importantly, it will be a place for the community to convene giving an opportunity to instill our culture back within all of us.
In closing, let us always keep those struggling in mind and lend a hand where it is needed.  Always think of creating that environment where all good things can happen.  All the Best!
Sincerely,
Thomas Boelter



 

Click here to view the Forest County Potawatomi events calendar.

Since 1999, the Forest County Potawatomi Foundation has been supporting our communities by assisting and enabling their efforts towards self-improvement.  However, we know that there is more we can do for our communities.  We know that our communities have a real need to create a more educated and skilled workforce, and there is a need to make that education and training more affordable.
To help address this overwhelming need found in communities throughout Wisconsin, the Forest County Potawatomi Foundation has created a scholarship program for Wisconsin residents. Three different scholarship opportunities are available for Wisconsin residents seeking to enroll in one of Wisconsin's accredited universities or technical schools/colleges. We look forward to this new chapter for the Forest County Potawatomi Foundation and continuing the work we do with our communities.




Ho-Chunk Tribal Education Department

Mission Statement
The Higher Education Division is to provide guidance and financial assistance to Ho-Chunk members who intend to pursue a postsecondary education. Scholarships are granted as a privilege with the intent that graduates will return to the Ho-Chunk Nation to use their knowledge and expertise to protect and strengthen the economic self-sufficiency and sovereignty of the Ho-Chunk Nation.

Ho-Chunk Nation Scholarship Program
The Ho-Chunk Scholarship Program provides financial resources to help enrolled Ho-Chunk members complete a progressive postsecondary degree. The recipients must attend a nonprofit Title IV regionally accredited institution. The Ho-Chunk Scholarship Program is intended for students working toward degree completion.

Financial Aid and Tax Filing Statement
In order to receive a Ho-Chunk Nation Scholarship, students are required to file a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) with accurate information. Accurate information includes a declaration of all funds acquired from Ho-Chunk gaming revenue (e.g. per capita) and the full value of the student's Children's Trust Fund, if applicable. Failure to completely and accurately file one's taxes and/or FAFSA will make any student ineligible for a Ho-Chunk Nation Scholarship until such discrepancies are resolved.










Lac Courte Oreilles Tribal Education Department

The Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe School provides a unique combination of academic rigor and cultural connectivity. Nowhere in northern Wisconsin can you find students meeting state and national standards in reading, writing, and mathematics while learning and practicing the intricate lessons of the Ojibwe language, culture and history.

There are many ways that the LCO school is like most public school in the state of Wisconsin, including the Common Core standards that are implemented by teachers that are highly qualified in their fields. Students in grades k-5 spend 90 minutes a day practicing reading and language arts skills and an additional 60 minutes engaged in mathematics instruction. Intervention programs are designed to
support students struggling in reading or math. Students in grades 6-12 participate in a range of course offerings with an additional 4 years of Ojibwe Language and a year of Tribal History as unique graduation requirements. There are a variety of clubs and activities available at LCO that range from varsity basketball and volleyball to rock climbing and Lego League Robotics club.

Aside from the high quality academics delivered by fully licensed professionals experienced in their fields, cultural immersion from local historians, leaders and elders, and a wide array of extracurricular opportunities, LCO can also boast of a culturally sensitive and highly trained counseling team, which provides support and guidance to students experiencing turmoil and trauma.

Mission
LAC COURTE OREILLES OJIBWE SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT

It is the mission of the Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe School to provide the proper guidance to maximize the spiritual, cultural, intellectual, physical, emotional, and social well being of each individual. This will ensure that all who attend this school will become productive and contributing citizens of the Lac Courte Oreilles community, state, nation and world in their own unique way.

LAC COURTE OREILLES OJIBWE SCHOOL PHILOSOPHY

Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwe School shall endeavor to provide its students a comprehensive, bilingual, and bicultural community based educational environment. This environment is designed to incorporate the wisdom and beauty of the Ojibwe heritage along with the knowledge and skills to succeed in our modern technological society.The Midewiwin Code for Long Life and Wisdom is the cornerstone on which our educational system is built and shall serve as the guiding light as we move toward the future.

Website: www.lcoosk12.org
Phone: 715-634-8924




Lac du Flambeau Tribal Education Department


CONTACT LdF Education:
Office Phone: (715) 588-7925
Office Fax: (715) 588-9063
Office Email:  [email protected]
LOCATION:   562 Peace Pipe Road    Lac du Flambeau, WI 54538
MAILING ADDRESS:   Education Center    P.O. Box 67  Lac du Flambeau, WI 54538

Menominee Tribal Education Department

Education
 
The mission of the Tribal Education Department is to cooperatively provide assistance and support to Menominee and community residents who are in need of preparation to advance in the work force or to pursue higher educational opportunities. 

The Tribal Education Department administers 3 programs:

1. Adult Vocational Training Program (AVT): Designed for students planning to obtain a diploma or certificate (1-year program), or an Associate of Arts degree (2-year program) at a vocational/technical college. 

2. Higher Education (HE): Designed for college-bound students planning to obtain a bachelor's degree.

3. Adult Education (AE): Designed for job-related activities such as seminars, workshops and academic courses. 

Note: The Menominee Tribal Legislature adopted the following policy on September 6, 2012: "The Tribal Education Department will not fund for-profit schools (examples: University of Phoenix, ITT, Rasmussen College, Globe University) because of the high loan debt students incur and non-transferrable credits." 

Note: Located at the College of Menominee Nation inside the Culture Building. 

 
Higher Education (HE) 
a. The maximum tribal grant for HE is $2,200 per academic year for a full-time student (12 credits or more each semester; $1,100/semester). Grants for students who are less than full-time will be pro-rated according to the number of credits they are carrying. Part-time students must be carrying a minimum of 6 credits in order to be eligible for the tribal grant. 

b. The maximum funding available to bachelor degree seeking students is $13,000 total of combined part-time/full-time.

Adult Vocational Training (AVT) 
a. The maximum tribal grant for AVT is $2,200 per academic year for a full-time student (12 credits or more each semester; $1,100/semester). Grants for students who are less than full-time will be pro-rated according to the number of credits they are carrying.

b. The maximum training period for full-time AVT students is 24 months. Nurse's training for full-time students is allowed 36 months. 

c. Students are only eligible for funding to complete one (1) AA degree within the maximum time allowed for funding.

d. Students who have already received a bachelor's degree are not eligible for AVT funding. 
__________________________________________________________________________________


1. Tribal Education Student Checklist
2. Indian Grant Application
2019 Menominee Tribal Scholarship Application
3. Student Handbook with funding guidelines - print for your records
4a. Education plan for NEW students
4b. Education plan for CONTINUING students
Adult Basic Education & GED
Adult Education Application
Grad Student Application
SCHOLARSHIPS TO CONSIDER
Find all of this and more by clicking here.

_________________________________________________________________________________

Menominee Indian Tribe News 

Posoh Mawaneh Weyuk:

Below is the application for this year's Menominee Youth Culture Camp(s). The first camp will be June 23-28 and the second camp will be July 21-26. Please download the file below (or go to the link below) to your computer, fill out the application and bring it to the Menominee Cultural Museum ASAP.


2019 Youth Culture Camp Overview
Culture Camp is designed for young adults to provide an opportunity for spiritual growth and strengthening of our cultural identity.

Youth chosen to participate in Culture Camp will gain experience through hands on learning, discussion groups, and field trips. A number of cultural activities will be offered throughout the camp period. Menominee Culture and Language are beneficial to the growht of our young people, strengthening their knowledge, respect and developing a unique bond with our tribal people and with our land.

This 2-week program focuses on students between the ages of 12 and 17. There is no cost to attend the camp. The first 30 COMPLETED applications with youth who are within the age requirements for each camp will be accepted to ensure applicable room and the adequate attention needed for learning and safety.

During camp, if there is severe weather, the culture camp staff will be notified immediately and if warranted, other means of shelter will be provided for the youth and staff. When conditions subside, they will then be returned back to the campsite.

Camp Dates
June 23-28, 2019 (Application Deadline June 14th, 2019)
July 21-26, 2019 (Application Deadline July 12th, 2019)

If you have any questions please call the Historic Preservation Office at 715-799-5258
 

  Culture Camp Application.pdf   

__________________________________________________________________________________

Upcoming Events



 
Click here to view flyer.

 
Click here to view flyer.





Click here to view flyer.

 
Click here to view flyer.

 
Click here to view flyer.

Contact 

Physical Address:    N172 Hwy 47/55      Keshena, WI 54135  
Mailing Address:     PO Box 910    Keshena, WI 54135  

Director,   Shannon Chapman  
Tel:  (715) 799-5110  
Email:  [email protected]  
Oneida Tribal Education Department


Red Cliff Tribal Education Department

MISSION STATEMENT  
To promote lifelong learning across generations, acknowledging the value of modern education while honoring the wisdom of our Anishinaabe ancestors, so that all tribal members have the capacity to walk in two worlds.

Red Cliff Early Childhood Center (ECC)
The Early Childhood Center can provide services for up to one hundred and eighteen children and their families through a variety of program offerings. Red Cliff Early Childhood Center offers Early Head Start  Home Based, Early Head Start Center Based and Head Start Center Based which serves the reservation. 
The ECC's mission is to use Traditional Ojibwe values to guide efforts to promote the spiritual, emotional, physical, and cognitive wellness of the children, families, and community we serve. 

Services offered:
  • Early Head Start Home Based Program ( prenatal - 3 yrs)
  • Early Head Start Center Based Program ( 6 weeks - 3 yrs)
  • Head Start Center Based Program (3 yrs - 5yrs)
  • Other Special Programs:
    • DOIE Kindergarten Readiness - Head Start Only (Department OIndian Education)
    • LAUNCH Child Wellness Program (Linking Actions for Unmet Needs in Children's Health)
    • Spirit Heart Program
    • Wrap-around Child Care Program Services
    • Family Support Services
    • Health Services
    • DPI Food Program (Department of Public Instruction)
    • Ride Safe Program
Criteria:
  • Living on the Red Cliff reservation or surrounding area
  • Complete pre-application with required forms
  • Willing to take an active role in your child's life
Contact Information: 
                                          Ashley Peterson, Office Manager 
                                          Telephone: 715/779-5030 ext. 0 
                                          Email:  [email protected] 

Location of ECC:  89830 Tiny Tot Drive 

Early Childhood Cener Prenatal application for PC Review (Print and complete an application anytime and return it to the ECC)
Early Childhood Cener CHILD application for PC Review (Print and complete an application anytime and return it to the ECC)

The Education Department does not provide scholarships for Summer and January terms.
If you are applying for a scholarship you will need to fill out, sign & return the following three (A, B, & C) forms to the Education Department. You can click on the form to open & print it off. We also accept applications via email -  [email protected].


A) Native American Scholarship App. 
B) Academic/Educational Development Plan 
C) RC Tribal Service & Release of Information Form
If the applicant is missing any of these three forms, they will be denied funding.
For your reference please print off the RC Education Department Policies & Requirements for the Higher Education & Job Training Program. 

D) RC Education Department Policies & Requirements of the Higher Education & Job Training Program
Failure to adhere to the policies will result in a denial of funding.
JOB PLACEMENT
The Job Placement Program helps Red Cliff tribal members who have obtained permanent employment with financial assistance for work-related expenses such as clothing. 
If you are applying for Job Placement you will need to fill out, sign & return the following forms to the Education Department. You can click on the form to open & print it off. 

E) 
Application Form for Job Placement Program  
F) 
Individual Self-Sufficiency Plan (ISP)
For your reference please print off the RC Education Department Guidelines & Requirements for the Job Placement Program. 

G) 
Job Placement Program Guidelines & Requirements
Contact Information:
Red Cliff Education Department 
Attn: Jared Blanche 
88455 Pike Rd., Hwy. 13 
Bayfield, WI 54814

Telephone: 715/779-3759 Ext. 5014
Jared Blanche - Education Director 
Email: 
[email protected]  
Office Location is 88385 Pike Road, 
Upper Level Family Human Services
Office hours are from 8:00am to 4:30pm

Upcoming Events




Sokaogon Chippewa Tribal Education Department

The Education Department provides information on higher education for college careers.
The Education Department also hosts the annual Graduation Banquet.

Education Department: 3051 Sand Lake Road, Crandon, WI 54520
Yvette McGeshick, Education Director Tel:  715-478-3830
Rachel Vodar, Home School Coordinator Tel:  715-478-5115

TrANS Program
TrANS is a cost effective program that helps fulfill entry-level laborer positions for construction contractors. It is a collaborative effort combining the strengths of industry and labor, community based organizations, government and the contractors of Wisconsin.
It is a 120-hour industry awareness program targeting the underserved, women, minorities and veterans of Wisconsin to become entry-level laborer's and apprentices in the road construction industry.
It has great incentives for employers to hire TrANS graduates.
In TrANS (Transportation Alliance for New Solutions), candidates undergo an intensive 120 hour soft and hard skills preparation program that incorporates industry professionals, road construction contractors and experienced road construction employees.
INSTRUCTION INCLUDES:
  • Physical Conditioning
  • Tool Identification/Usage
  • Construction Terminology
  • CPR First Aide Certification
  • ACCUPLACER or TABE Tests
  • Blueprint & Plan Reading
  • CDL Training/Prep
  • Apprenticeship Prep/Test
  • Flagger Certification
  • OSHA 10/30 Safety Training
 
QUALIFICATIONS:
To Participate in the TrANS Program, You Need to Meet the Following Qualifications:
  • Be 18 Years of Age or Older
  • High School Diploma or GED/HSED Preferred
  • Ability to Pass General Aptitude Test at Minimum of 6th Grade Level
  • Must Possess a Valid Driver's license
  • Ability to Perform Manual Labor and/or Physically Demanding Work
  • Ability to Pass a Drug Screening
  • Willingness to Travel Statewide
  • Driving Record that doesn't include: leaving the scene, excessive speeding (20+ over) or OWI/DUI in the past 3 years
  • Possess a Willingness to Work Hard

BENEFITS:
  • Average Starting Hourly Rate for Laborers Ranges from $14.75 to $17.75
  • Family Sustaining Benefits
  • Apprenticeships allow increased training opportunities
  • Noble profession helping communities connect, remain safe and grow
 
You can learn skills. Determination, dependability and willingness to grow professionally are traits that will make you successful in the construction industry.
 
If you are interested in becoming a TrANS Participant,  email Kim Kircher or call 715-478-7633.
St.Croix Tribal Education Department

Stockbridge-Munsee Tribal Education Department

DATA
National Center for Education Statistics
The Primary federal entity for collecting and analyzing data related to education

ADVOCACY
Wisconsin Indian Education Association (WIEA) 
Promote and support education and educationally related opportunities for American Indian People in Wisconsin

National Indian Education Association (NIEA)
Advocacy for educational equity and excellence for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian students

We Are Healers is a digital media resource featuring stories of American Indian health professionals. We Are Healers "aims to inspire American Indian youth to envision themselves as dentists, nurses, pharmacists, physicians, etc., all through stories of Native role-models. To this end, We Are Healers endorse healthy, active lifestyles and encourage youth to harness the strength of their tribal 'healing tradition' as they explore educational opportunities.

Exploring American Indian Boarding School Experience
Exploring American Indian Boarding School Experience
Native Education Pathways
Native Education Pathways



Tribal Technical Assistance Program


The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Office of Innovative Program Delivery's Center for Local Aid Support recently established a national Tribal Technical Assistance Program (TTAP) as a one-stop transportation resource for tribal communities across the country.

The TTAP Center provides comprehensive transportation training and technical assistance to tribal communities, building skills and expertise to ensure the safety and maintenance of tribal roads and the continuous professional development of tribal transportation workforces.
For more information visit  https://ttap-center.org/about/ 
2020-2021 WIEA Scholarship

In keeping with its continuing commitment to higher education, the Wisconsin Indian Education Association is pleased to provide scholarship assistance to American Indian students attending institutes of higher education for the 2019-2020 academic year. This scholarship is an achievement-based scholarship, not based on financial need.
The scholarship is open to the following:
  • 2019 Graduating high school seniors
  • One (1) to two (2) year program students
  • Four-year college students (second semester freshman, sophomore, junior or senior)
  • Graduate or Ph.D. student
These are merit-based scholarships requiring the students to write an essay and be above average academically. To date, 35 Wisconsin Indians have been awarded W.I.E.A. Scholarships.
Click the following link for the 2019 Scholarship Application:  2019-2020 WIEA Scholarship.

Applications and required documents are  due June 1, 2020.

National Indian Education Association
Open Source Education Resources for the Classroom 
 

Cultural Resource Repository

NIEA Resource Repository is a dynamic digital library and network. Explore open education resources and join our network of educators and advocates dedicated to strengthening Native education systems. 

To view our Resource Repository, please click here or visit  http://www.niea-resourcerepository.org
National Indian Education Association 50th Annual Conference
American Indian Studies Program

Students with teacher

The American Indian Studies Program exists primarily to assist with the implementation of the curricular requirements in the areas of American Indian history, culture, and tribal sovereignty. The program is also responsible for  American Indian Language and Culture Education.

Program staff:

American Indian Language and Culture Education Licenses

Any school enrolling American Indian students may choose to establish an American Indian Language and Culture Education (AILCE) Program designed to make the curriculum more relevant to the needs, interests, and cultural heritage of American Indian students.
Components may include instruction in language, literature, history, and culture; staff training; and vocational education. Such programs must have a parental advisory committee. Additional information on AILCE program requirements is found in  Wis. Stats. Ch. 115, Subch. IV .
STAFF: State law includes provisions for certification of school staff working in American Indian Language and Culture Education. Licenses are available for: facts
Chapter PI 34 of the  Administrative Code, Subchapter IX, sections 34.34 (7) - (9) describes eligibility criteria for each license. Verification of the required knowledge and competencies is typically verified by the appropriate tribal education department.  Licensure Rules

American Indian Languages in Wisconsin

Overview

One long held misconception about American Indian nations and tribal communities is that they all speak one single common language. However, that is certainly not the case in Wisconsin as there are at least three language families that are considered to be linguistically separate. Of the eleven federally-recognized American Indian nations and tribal communities in Wisconsin, the six bands of Chippewa or Ojibwe, Potawatomi, Menominee and the Stockbridge Munsee Mohican speak Algonquian languages, the Oneida speak an Iroquoian language and the Ho-Chunk speak a Siouan language. Until recently most of these languages were strictly oral, and there were limited amounts literature or other written resources.
Currently, many American Indian nations and tribal communities in Wisconsin and throughout the United States are involved in  language preservation efforts to preserve and revive their native languages. While a  number of American Indian students may not be fluent native language speakers, they may come from communities where they may be exposed to their native language either at home, in preschool or tribal programs, or in other language preservation programs. By the time these students enter school, they may have had several years' of bi-cultural or bilingual learning.  However, many educators may be unaware of this language foundation and how to use it to enhance student academic success.

Language Resources

American Indian students, families and communities have traditionally been bi-cultural or bilingual members of their tribal nation and of the United States. In Wisconsin, American Indian nations and tribal communities presently use the Roman Alphabet symbols to represent written sounds in their languages, use unique sound systems and have dialectal variations of their native language. DPI American Indian Studies Consultant David O'Connor was interviewed by the  WIDA Consortium about the importance of language and culture on student engagement and achievement. Here is a hyperlink to the article from the WIDA Focus On:  American Indian English Language Learners.
Another resource that demonstrates the importance of language in American Indian communities is project  The Ways, which is a production of the  Wisconsin Media Lab. The Ways is a series of short videos and other resources that showcase the present day experiences of members of the eleven federally-recognized American Indian nations and tribal communities in Wisconsin. 
The video  Language Apprentice tells the story of a Ho-Chunk language apprentice, Arlene Thunder Blackdeer, who is one of 15 language apprentices working to become fluent Ho-Chunk language speakers. As she has become more fluent, Arlene has become a language teacher at Tomah Area School District.
The video  Prayers in a Song is the story of hip hop artist Tall Paul from the Leech Lake Band of Ojibwe in Minnesota and his struggle to learn Ojibwe. Set in the urban area of Minneapolis, Tall Paul shares his struggles trying to learn his native language and better understand his heritage.
The video  Living Language is the story of an attempt at language revitalization. Ron Corn, Jr. from the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin shares his story and effort to raise his daughter as a first language speaker of Menominee. A language teacher, he quit his full-time job where he taught Menominee language at the Menominee Indian School District in order to spend more time raising his youngest daughter, Mimikwaeh, with the language through immersion. He hopes that she will be the first child in over a generation whose first language is Menominee and not English. 
 
The video  Waadookodaading Ojibwe Language Immersion School is the story of a school that is "a place where people help each other," is part of an international movement that seeks to revitalize indigenous languages, many of which are in danger of never being spoken again. Keller Paap and Brooke Ammann from Waadookodaading share their journey and story in the video.

Tribal Language Revitalization Grants

In recognition of the importance of these American Indian nation languages and their relationship to student engagement and academic achievement, the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction issues award grants on a competitive, annual basis to school board, consortium of school boards, CESA, or Head Start agencies who partner with a tribal education authority or government. .
These grant funds may be used for language activities related to providing instruction in one or more tribal languages as curricular or co-curricular offerings including, but not limited to, curriculum design, creation of appropriate assessment instruments, professional development activities, language-focused parent and community engagement activities, instructional delivery, and program evaluation.
For questions about this information, contact David O'Connor (608) 267-2283.
Resources Available at wisconsinfirstnations.org

Wisconsin First Nations American Indian Studies in Wisconsin
 
This collection of resources provides educators and pre-service teachers accurate and authentic educational materials for teaching about the American Indian Nations of Wisconsin.

It also assists educators in fulfilling Wisconsin Education Act 31, the statutory requirement that all school districts provide instruction in the history, culture, and tribal sovereignty of the American Indian nations in the state. This requirement represents our state's commitment to serve our diverse communities and the American Indian tribes and bands who reside within Wisconsin's borders.



Contributed by  WPT Education

Current Tribal Lands Map and Native Nations Facts
Grades PK-12



Download Lesson Plans and Resources
Current Tribal Lands Map and Facts - Poster (PDF)

Current Tribal Lands Map and Facts - 8.5"x11" (PDF)

Current Tribal Lands - Map Only (JPG)

Guide your students in learning who their Native neighbors are by exploring this map of the current tribal lands and nations in Wisconsin. Facts about each of the Native nations are also provided, including Native population on tribal lands and within Wisconsin, tribal land size, seat of government, and more! Wisconsin's First Nations vetted the map and facts.

For added flexibility in the classroom, multiple formats of the information are provided for download.

Contributed by WPT Education
Contributed by Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction
Contributed by University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Education
Many other resources are available at:  https://wisconsinfirstnations.org/resources













Wisconsin American Indian Associations, Organizations, or Programs

These links are to community and tribal organizations in Wisconsin that provide information and support for American Indian people, families, and communities in regards to economic development, tourism, education, health, and natural resources. 
American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Wisconsin

Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission (GLIFWC)

Great Lakes Inter Tribal Council (GLITC)

Milwaukee Indian Summer Festival

Native American Tourism of Wisconsin (NATOW)

Wisconsin Indian Education Association (WIEA)

Wisconsin State Tribal Relations Initiative

National American Indian Associations, Organizations, or Programs

The following links are to national level American Indian associations, organizations, and programs in the United States. These associations, organizations, and programs address various aspects of American Indian education, or may have education related services and resources. 
Administration for Native Americans: An Office of the Administration for Children and Families

White House Initiative on American Indian and Alaska Native Education

Wisconsin Tribal Head Start Programs 

These links are to websites of Wisconsin tribal Head Start programs coordinated by and located on or near American Indian nations and tribal communities in the state. 

Wisconsin Tribal Schools

Wisconsin has three Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) funded schools and one private American Indian tribal school in the state. The following links provide details about each of these schools, along with information for parents, families, and communities. 

Wisconsin Tribal Colleges and Universities 

The College of Menominee Nation and Lac Courte Oreilles Ojibwa Community College area two tribal colleges located in the state of Wisconsin. The primary campuses for these colleges are located on the Lac Courte Oreilles and Menominee nations with outreach sites in surrounding communities. 
T he Wisconsin Indian Education Association kindly acknowledges that some information shared in this newsletter is obtained from sources such as the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction website and other tribal, state and education related outlets.

Wisconsin Indian Education Association 

The Wisconsin Indians Education Association is a 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization established in 1985 to promote educational opportunities for Indian people in Wisconsin through a unified effort of Native and non-Native members interested in the social and economic advancement of Indian people. Our members meet with state legislators, serve on the governor's task force on Recruitment and Retention of Indian Students in the Technical College and University systems and provide input into university planning such as the Design for Diversity.

Wisconsin Education Act 31 (1989/1991) refers to the statutory requirement that all public school districts provide instruction in the history, culture, and tribal sovereignty of the eleven federally-recognized American Indian tribes and bands in the state. 

Please support the educational efforts of WIEA. For more information please visit www.wiea.org .