Indigenous Education Newsletter
Knowing Who We Are Connecting Our Community
Helpful Links
Celebrating Alaska Native/Native American Heritage Month!
We recognize and honor the rich cultures, histories, and contributions of Native peoples in the United States.
It serves as an opportunity to learn about the diverse traditions of Alaska Natives and American Indians.
Director's Minute
Hello Indigenous Education families,
Winter will be here before we know it, and as someone who spends a lot of time snowboarding with my son, I’m excited to kick off the winter season! With a successful start to the school year, I’d like to share my appreciation for each and every one of you for getting your students to school each day.
The Indigenous Education team has been hard at work connecting with students, helping them navigate a new school year, and providing a space for our students to feel welcome, cared for, and inspired to do their best.
As we move into the second quarter, we’re looking forward to continuing to build relationships, celebrate our cultures, and provide opportunities for students and families to engage in meaningful ways. Keep an eye out for upcoming events, such as the Indigenous Education Fashion Show, and the Regalia Making Nights at East High School where students will have a chance to showcase their Regalia, and be proud of who they are and where they come from.
Thank you for being such an important part of our Indigenous Education community.
-Jaime Galvan
Indigenous Education Highlights
Mrs. Jackie Wilson from Dillingham spoke with our students from Western Alaska at East High School to make connections and listen to how they are adjusting to the Anchorage School District.
Miley Kagaruk & Zackary Felton presented at the National Indian Education Association in Spokane, WA on October 10th
Ms. Reeves & East HS Students made a NYO kickstand for the Aspen Hotel where many of our AK Western Families are housed. Thank you Project Gui Kima!
Elders & Youth Highlights
This Years Elders & Youth conference was a success! We heard from students and staff how meaningful it is for them to have the opportunity to listen and learn from elders and community organizations.
Thank you to the First Alaskans Institute for your partnership with ASD.
ASD Shine Bright Podcast
The Indigenous Education department wants to recognize all students and families affected by Typhoon Halong. Our department has been so grateful and welcoming to all new students who have enrolled into ASD. Please feel free to watch the ASD Shine Bright Podcast.
Indigenous Educator Nominations
Our department is celebrating Indigenous educators within the Anchorage School District who inspire and support our students every day. Representation matters and our students benefit from seeing themselves reflected in the educators who guide them.
We invite staff, students, and community members to nominate Indigenous educators to be recognized for their dedication and positive impact. In respect for cultural values around humility, each nominee will have the option to accept or decline public recognition.
Chin’an for helping us honor the incredible Indigenous educators in our district!
Please Click Here to Nominate!
Indigenous Education Fashion Show
We are excited to announce our annual Indigenous Education Fashion & Art Show
Last year we had over 80 students walk the runway. We want to see even more students this year, please sign up!
Are you interested in being a vendor at this years Indigenous Student Fashion Show? Click this link:
Regalia Making Opportunities
Seeking Materials/Supply Donations
Thank you to everyone who has already donated to the Indigenous Education Department!
To help support our Regalia making opportunities for families, we are seeking donations of items commonly used in creation of regalia items.
Donations can be dropped off at the ASD Education Center Indigenous Education Department or the front office of East High School.
Donors are eligible for a tax receipt for their donation.
For questions, please contact our department at (907) 742-4445 or email Griffee_Alexis@asdk12.org
Regalia Making Nights
Materials will be provided based on donations, feel free to bring an existing project, or use the materials offered.
For questions, please contact our department at (907) 742-4445 or email Griffee_Alexis@asdk12.org
Did you know students can start earning credits toward graduation as early as middle school, and get credit for cultural activities and leadership?
This Graduation Tracker helps families see how their students are progressing toward meeting high school graduation requirements.
It’s a great way to stay informed about your student’s academic path-what credits they’ve earned, what’s still needed, and how to plan ahead.
If you’re unsure where your student stands, reach out to your school’s Student Support Specialist or Counselor. They can help you understand the tracker and make a plan for success!
Gui Kima
Project Gui Kima organizes cultural activities and advocates academically for students to encourage the pursuit of leadership opportunities during and beyond high school. Students will utilize Indigenous knowledge and practices to express themselves, engage in school, and to prepare students with college, career, and life skills.
Click here to sign your student up for Project Gui Kima!
Questions?
Cyndi Reeves | Project Coordinator
reeves_cyndi@asdk12.org or 907-538-3825
Sara Baker | Administrative Assistant
baker_saramichelle@asdk12.org or 907-742-4449
Alaska Strong
Space is still available!
Join AK Strong to participate in a free keychain and jewelry workshop that is fun for the whole family! The AK Strong Program offers family centered activities that aim to foster connections and strengthen familial bonds.
The Nov/Dec cohort begins November 13th at ANCCS and will be organized primarily by Diana Boggess. Food and childcare will be provided and financial incentives are available upon completion of the cohort!
Click the link below to sign up or for more information.
Questions?
Diana Boggess |Program Coordinator
(907) 744-2232/boggess_diana@asdk12.org
Sara Baker | Administrative Assistant
(907) 742-4449/baker_saramichelle@asdk12.org
Upcoming Dates
Nov. 19 - NAC Meeting
Nov. 27 - Thanksgiving
Nov. 28 - No School
Dec. 14 - Hanukkah begins
Dec. 18 - Last Day of 2nd Quarter
Dec. 19 - Student Release Grading Day
Native Advisory Committee
The NAC is a parent, student, teacher/counselor run committee meant to help bring Indigenous voices to the Superintendent and School Board to help shape policy and curriculum in ASD Schools.
All meeting's take place at the ASD Education Center
If you are unable to join but would like to make a public comment, please click here.
Heritage Month Resources
Additional Resources
Although the link looks broken, click on it and it will take you to the document. Food Distribution Calendar
Do you follow us on social media?
Don't miss any important dates or events. Be sure to "like" and "follow" our pages on social media for all of the latest updates and news from the Indigenous Education Department!
If you received this email and are unsure if your child is enrolled in Title VI Indigenous Education, or you would like to enroll them, please reach out to our office using the email or phone number below.
907-742-4445