Past Programming

MENTOR PROGRAM 2021

The spring and summer of 2021 saw the implementation of a successful mentor program. Our mentor program, which begin in May of 2021, saw 14 high school students in danger of failing, move on to the next grade level, or graduate, thanks to the mentor program. This program continued on into summer school where 18 middle school students were able to pass their courses and move on to the next grade level. 15 high school students were able to pass their courses while in summer school and 3 were able to pass courses that would allow them to meet graduation requirements. We would like to give give our thanks and appreciation to our mentors: Jacob Thompson, Landon Laffin, Darryl Lazare Jr., and Luke Allen. Jacob, Landon, and Darryl are all MCHS graduates and former MBKIEP students. Having them return to take on these leadership roles has shown to be beneficial for them, as well as the students.

Pictured above from left to right: Darryl Lazare Jr., Jacob Thompson, Landon Laffin.

Pictured to the right: Luke Allen

JOANNE JOCKO

Summer School Supervisor

JORDAN THOMPSON

SRMT Youth Services Education Specialist

We want to thank Joanne Jocko for agreeing to be our Summer School Coordinator. Her efforts helped make this summer a success. We would also like to thank Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe Youth Services Specialist, Jordan Thompson, for providing his services at J.W. Leary Middle School this past spring.

SUMMER CAMPS

The summer of 2021 saw the successful implementation of multiple MBKNAP summer camps. A 4-week Mindfulness Ambassador Training Program was offered under the direction of the Akwesasne Holistic Life Foundation (AHLF). Students were able to attend a 4 week long workshop where they learned mindfulness, yoga, and breathing techniques, all useful skills when dealing with stress. The goal was to produce mindfulness ambassadors who will be able to support AHLF in the schools with their mindfulness sessions.

Our Grade 7 Technology Teacher, Benjamin Reed, who has a pilot's license, ran a successful weeklong Flight Simulator Camp. This past spring, MBKNAP purchased four flight simulators for use in the middle and high schools with a goal of increasing student interest in aviation.

Ryan Ransom offered a weeklong Sphero Robot and Computer Science Camp, due to the generous donation of Sphero BOLT robots and tablets from AISES (American Indian Science & Engineering Society). Ryan, a member of the AISES organization, learned of this opportunity, and was able to procure 15 robots and tablets for use in our school district. This camp offered interested students a glimpse into the world of robotics and computer science. The camp was a success and students who participated want to continue working with these robots throughout the school year.

Joanne Jocko, our middle school Guidance Counselor Assistant and the MCSD Title VI Coordinator, organized several culture-based workshops for our students. Our students had the opportunity to particpate in a Wilderness and Survival Camp, a Women's Health Camp, a Fishing Camp, a traditional skirt and dance camp, and a beading camp.

Jenelle Gilmer, an Education Specialist for NCSTEP (North Country Science & Technology Entry Program) at SUNY Potsdam, offered a 3 day College Prep workshop where students could career exploration, the college application process, financial aid application process, resume building and other information important for students after graduation.

Finally, Victoria Ransom, an artist from Akwesasne, came in for a week long workshop. Students who participated created murals in honor of the survivors and victims of Residential Schools. These murals will be hung in various MCSD schools and used to generate a conversation and educate society on the experience of Indigenous peoples from across North America in Residential Schools.

JENELLE GILMER

Education Specialist for NCSTEP

VICTORIA RANSOM

Akwesasne Artist

BENJAMIN REED

Grade 7 Technology Teacher

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