WAABGONII GIIZIS 🌸
( BLOSSOM FLOWER MOON)
May 2024
ANNOUNCEMENTS & UPDATES
Indigenous Education Program april review and updates
Middle School students play the game Miigwech by Nashke Games with Leilani DeFoe.
The Indigenous Education (IE) Program continued academic and cultural support with TCAPS students in April through one-on-one, group work, club meetings, and Cultural Connects. In addition, the program hosted a movie night as part of the Anishinaabe Expressive Culture Series. Holly Bird moderated the film screening of the documentary Gather.
The Middle School Indigenous Education students met for Cultural Connects to play Anishinaabemowin card games with community member and Anishinaabemowin gamer, Leilani DeFoe. The students wrapped up their Cultural Connects with a Mino Bimaadiziwin award ceremony recognizing them for the 7 Grandfather Teachings they exemplified during the 23/24 school year.
Throughout the school year the IE program has participated in a K-12 English Language Arts Curriculum review, in April the committee closed in on a curriculum with many stakeholders throughout the district. This opportunity allowed the program to provide input with Indigenous Learners in mind. IE led their input with the voice of Indigeneity, diversity, equity, inclusion, belonging, and cultural intelligence.
The program and high school Indigenous Education Liasons met with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Tribal School to learn about student opportunities. We also met with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa's Culture and Language Program to discuss the 24/25 school year.
This month our Indigenous Education Teaching Instructional Aids will continue to provide services at the high school level, the elementary and middle school services concluded on May 10, 2024. Our next Parent Committee Meeting is on June 10, 2024 at 6 pm at the West Middle School Library.
Resepectfully,
Summer Baldwin
TCAPS Indigenous Education Corodinator
TCAPS Indigenous Education Upcoming Meetings & Events
Date: Monday, May 13, 2024
Time: 5 pm to 7 pm
Where: Traverse City High School - Mac Room
Parking: Park at the back of the school. Signage will be posted outside of the entrance.
Please join us for a beaded graduation cap demonstration by Alexa Rae Day, an accomplished multimedia artist. She is a Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa citizen and descendant of the Hochunk and Lakota Tribes. Her work has been showcased at the Santa Fe Indian Market and Eiteljorg Museum Indian Art Market and Festival. Alexa shares her passion for art and Indigenous lifeways by generously teaching others across Turtle Island.
TCAPS Indigenous Education Program Class of 2024 Seniors are invited to bead with Alexa. Please come prepared with your cap and be ready to learn!
We encourage future graduates and family members to join us in community and take advantage of the learning opportunity as Alexa demonstrates how to bead a graduation cap.
Anishinaabe Expressive Culture Series Events are free and all are welcome to attend.
If you have any questions please contact us!
Phone (231) 933-5897
Email baldwinsu@tcaps.net
TCAPS Title VI Indigenous Education Family Sail on the Manitou
Date: Monday, June 10, 2024
Safety Talk: 9:30 am
Sail Time: 10 am - 12 pm
Where: Discovery Center & Pier, 13170 SW Bay Shore Drive, Traverse City, MI
RSVP Deadline: May 31, 2024, click here to RSVP.
Join us with Discovery Center & Pier and Traverse Tall Ship Company aboard the schooner Manitou for an Indigenous Education Family Sail! This sail will take you on a two-hour adventure around West Grand Traverse Bay. Help the crew raise the sails and feel the spray of the bay on your cheeks. Or just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride.
The minimum threshold of participants is 20. Let's reach 20! Should we not reach 20 participants the sail will be canceled and notice will be sent to those who RSVP'd. The maximum capacity is 58 participants.
Requirements:
Each participating youth is required to bring at least one adult parent/guardian. Please complete the registration form below to reserve a space for participating youth.
Attend the safety talk at 9:30 am
If you have any questions please contact us!
Phone (231) 933-5897
Email baldwinsu@tcaps.net
TCAPS Title VI Indigenous Education End-of-Year Parent Committee Meeting
Date: Monday, June 10, 2024
Time: 6 pm to 7 pm
Where: West Middle School Library & Google Meet
Google Meet joining info:
Video call link: https://meet.google.com/zxn-rqkb-wwv
Or dial: (US) +1 786-220-2092 PIN: 237 363 173#
Discussion:
23/24 School Year Overview
24/25 School Year
IPC Bylaws
Parent Committee meetings are an opportunity to get involved in the Indigenous Education Program and provide input to the program.
The TCAPS Indigenous Education Parent Committee was established to provide input and assistance with the program. All parents and guardians of TCAPS Native American students are encouraged to attend these informative meetings and to share their thoughts and opinions.
If you have any questions please contact us!
Phone (231) 933-5897
Email baldwinsu@tcaps.net
Celebrate!
Senior Awards
Join us in celebration of our soon-to-be graduates!
Congratulations to the following students for receiving Senior Awards:
Amarah - Magna Cum Laude, Bronze Pin, and Cord
Emilie - Magna Cum Laude
Gracie - Academic Letter
Kamile - Bronze Pin and Cord
Noah - Summa Cum Laude, Gold Pin, and Cord
*Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa graduates submit your graduate profile by May 15. Visit the link for more information.
Mino Bimaadiziwin Awards
Indigenous Education Middle School students were recognized for exemplifying the 7 Grandfather Teachings that contribute to living a good life during the 23/24 school year at the Mino Bimaadiziwn Awards. Students were nominated by Teachers and Staff.
The 7 Grandfather Teachings:
Debwewin (Truth) - Speaks from their heart. They speak their truth.
Zaagidowin (Love) - Energy that emerges from within and benefits all relatives. Loves all relatives and his/her/them self.
Mnaadendomoowin (Respect) - Acknowledgement of relationship. Born of the care affection, and gratitude expressed between relations.
Akodewin (Bravery) - Has a strong heart.
Gwekwaadiziwin (Honesty) - Their actions align with their words.
Dbaadendiziwin (Humility) - Is humble. Recognizes they are not more important than all relatives.
Nbwaakawin (Wisdom) - A culmination of all 7 Grandfather Teachings. To lead their life with vision, to see things as they are, to be enlightened. Looks at things without prejudice or bias.
Definitions sourced from: "The Seven Generations and The Seven Grandfather Teachings" by James Vukelich Kaagegaabaw
East Middle School
Andrew - Truth
A'shanique - Wisdom, Truth, Love, Honesty, and Bravery
Brock - Honesty and Love
Candance - Respect
Clyde - Bravery
Dalainey - Wisdom, Truth, and Bravery
Guadalupe - Honesty
Jacob - Wisdom and Bravery
Jose - Humility
Keelin - Wisdom
Malachi - Respect
Mariah - Bravery
Michael - Wisdom
Odin - Truth
Solveig - Wisdom
Sophia - Love
Tayven - Humility
West Middle School
Andrew - Truth
Cooper - Truth and Bravery
Danielle - Wisdom
Drake - Love
Elias - Humility
Jacob - Wisdom
Jaquori - Wisdom
John-David - Love and Bravery
Jonathan - Love
Kaden - Wisdom
Kaia - Respect, Honesty, and Bravery
Lydia - Wisdom
Marcus - Respect, Honesty, Truth, and Bravery
Matthew - Respect, Honesty, and Humility
Nevaeh - Wisdom
Nicolas - Love
Quentin - Respect
Samuel - Respect
Khaleesi sharing her art at the 2024 K-12 Art Show. Her art was led by following a marble with a pencil on paper and findpictures within.
Student Art Show 🎨
Congratulations to students who shared their art in the TCAPS K-12 Art Show!
Cora
Evelyn
Gracie
Khaleesi
Payton
Scarlett
Student Recognition this Spring 🌷
Congratulations to Indigenous Education Students who were recognized as students of the week at their respective schools.
Amarah
Elliana
Madilynn
Dakota
Opportunities
Discovery Fishing at the Pier Program
The Discover Fishing at the Pier program is a collaborative effort between Discover Center & Pier, Inland Seas Education Association, Michigan United Conservation Clubs, and the Northwest Michigan Fishing Club. This hands-on youth fishing program is offered once per year and introduces youth to basic fishing skills including casting and knot tying, food web study, and pier-based fishing techniques. We ask that each youth participant have an adult accompany them whether they are a parent, adult sibling, or friend. By learning together, we hope that the youth that participate will continue fishing into the future.
Location: Discovery Pier, 13271 SW Bay Shore Dr, Traverse City, MI 49684
Who: Youth aged 7-16
When: June 1, 2024
Session 1: 9:00 AM - 11:30 AM - Arrive at 8:30 AM
Session 2: 1:00 PM-3:30 PM - Arrive at 12:30 PM
Space is limited and registration is required for this program.
Support for this program is provided by the Great Lakes Fishery Trust.
For more information and to register visit the Discovery Center and Pier website.
▶ Scholarships
Waub Ajijaak Leadership Scholarship now accepting applications
The Waub Ajijaak Leadership Scholarship supports students of Native American, Alaska Native, or Native Hawaiian descent as they pursue undergraduate, graduate, doctoral, and professional degrees at accredited institutions in the beautiful state of Michigan.
The Waub Ajijaak Leadership Scholarship is for those who have been dedicated to leadership, volunteerism, and community service. Culturally, leadership means different things based on your nation, traditional name, and clan or clans. We want to honor this as well as understand it is an ongoing process for many to reclaim their culture, knowledge of traditional lifeways, family stories, and community connections.
Deadline: May 17, 2024
Visit the Waub Ajijaak Leadership Scholarship website for information and to apply.
American Indian College Fund - Scholarships
The American Indian College fund is now accepting scholarship applications!
The American Indian College Fund provides scholarships to American Indian and Alaska Native college students seeking undergraduate and graduate degrees at tribal colleges, nonprofit, and accredited schools.
Visit their website for additional information.
▶ CAMPS FOR JR HIGH AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
North American Indigenous Summer Enrichment Camp (NAISEC) at Central Michigan University
Camp Dates: June 23 - 27, 2024
Who can apply: Indigenous students entering 8th-12th grades for the 24/25 school year
Deadline: May 20, 2024
Learn more about the program and find the application on their website.
Grand Valley State University Office of Multicultural Affairs Anishinaabe Student Leadership Camp
What: Pre-college experience at GVSU! Experience dorm life at GVSU, visit campus, learn how to become a leader in your community and experience the world through the lens of anthropology.
Who: Indigenous students 9th - 12th grade
Camp Dates: June 17 - June 20, 2024
Cost: $20 deposit with application
Deadline: June 3, 2024
For more information visit the website. Questions? Contact Lin Bardwell at bardwelb@gvsu.edu
North Dakota State University American Indian Public Health Resource Center
What: Indigenous Food Sovereignty Emerging Leaders Program (IFSELP). IFSELP will be hosting a unique three-week on-site summer program for Indigenous sutdents interested in food sovereignty and culturally responsive public health services for Indigenous communities.
Who: High School Seniors graduating May 2024 and college students 18 - 24 years old
Camp Dates: June 9 - June 29, 2024
Location: NDSU Campus - Fargo, ND (travel cost included)
Deadline: April 15, 2024
For more information or questions email tanya.redroad@ndsu.edu orvisit https://www.facebook.com/AIPHRC
COMMUNITY
Community Events & Gatherings
Tribal Events & Gatherings, May 2024:
MONDAY - THURSDAY: Virtual Anishinaabemowin Classes from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Join by clicking the link, https:/bit.ly/GTB_Anishinaabemowin
MONDAYS, TUESDAYS, THURSDAYS, & FRIDAYS: May Music Lessons in person at the Heritage Library and on Zoom
WEDNESDAYS IN MAY: Anishinaabemowin In-Person Classes at the GTB 3-Mile office from 5 pm to 7 pm
SATURDAYS Kids/Family Wing Chung Kung Fu! (Ages: 4-75) at the Heritage Library from 11 am to 12:30 pm
FRIDAY, MAY 3: 3rd Annual MMIP Day of Awareness at GTB Cross Creek at 12 pm
SATURDAY, MAY 4: Suttons Bay School Graduation Powwow, grand entry at 12 pm
SATURDAY, MAY 11: 44th Annual Federal Recognition Day - Mini Traditional Powwow & Market Day from 11 am to 3 pm
TUESDAY, MAY 14: Anishinaabek Tree & Leaf Identification Workshop at GTB 3-Mile office from 5 pm to 7 pm
All events listed above are free and open to the public.
Local/Regional Tribal Event Calendars:
The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa events website
Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians event website
Learning & Leisure
Study Technique: Pomodoro Study Method
Pomodoro Study Method
With students preparing for exams and working on completing projects we wanted to provide a study technique. The Pomodoro study technique is a time management tool that promotes focus and allows time for breaks. This technique is not just limited to only helping with studies but aids in other areas of tasks that need to get done.
How to get started:
Choose your assignment/work to do
Set the timer to 25 minutes
Work until the timer rings
Take a five-minute break
Take longer breaks (15 to 30 minutes) for every four Pomodoro intervals
You can learn more about the technique at this YouTube link. Pomodoro Study timers, like this one, can also be found on YouTube to help you stay on track.
Please let us know how it goes!
email: baldwinsu@tcaps.net
Language Learners
Anishinaabemowin/English - Feelings Word List:
Nbaap - I am laughing
Nmaamkaadendam - I am surprised
Nzegis - I am afraid
Nmino-wendam - I am content
Nda-niisaadendam - I am sad
Nishkaadis - I am angry
Words sourced from Kidwenan: An Ojibwe Language Book by Isadore Toulouse Bebamikawe
Reads
May's book theme is well-being:
My Heart Fills With Happiness by Monique Gray Smith (Cree)
Reading age 0 - 2 years old. 24 pages.
I Hope / Nipakosêyimon by Monique Gray Smith (Cree)
Reading age 3 - 5 years old. 32 pages.
The Sharing Circle: Stories about First Nations Culture (Indigenous Knowledge Series) by Theresa Meuse (Bear River First Nation)
Reading age 4 - 8 years old. 52 pages.
The Porcupine Year by Louise Erdrich (Ojibwe)
Read age 8 -12 years old. 224 pages.
Killing the Wittigo: Indigenous Culture-Based Approaches to Waking Up, Taking Action, and Doing the Work of Healing by Suzanne Methot ( Asiniwachi Nehiyaw (Rocky Mountain Cree))
Reading age 12 - 17 years old. 272 pages
Traverse City Area Public Schools Indigenous Education
231.933.5897 (office)
231.499.2421 (cell)
Indigenous Education Office
Traverse City High School
3962 Three Mile Road North
Traverse City, MI 49686
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