ASD Indigenous Education

Students in our Summer Enrichment students learned traditional string games and explored how these games have been shared across Indigenous communities for generations. More than just entertainment, string games help teach storytelling, observation, problem-solving, and cultural teachings while strengthening connections between elders, youth, and community.

Students practiced creating different shapes and patterns while learning about the history and significance behind the games. It was a wonderful opportunity to experience how learning, culture, and play come together.

Anchorage School District

Students in our Summer Enrichment Program learned how to weave dance fans while exploring their cultural significance and the skills required to create them.

This activity provided an opportunity to develop fine motor skills, focus, and patience while learning about traditional forms of Indigenous artistry. Through hands-on learning, students gained a deeper appreciation for the knowledge, craftsmanship, and cultural teachings that continue to be shared across generations.

We are proud of the care and effort students put into their work and grateful for opportunities to connect learning with culture and tradition.

Anchorage School District

Students explored the connectedness of Indigenous cultures and communities while learning about the history and significance of dreamcatchers.

Through discussion and hands-on creation, students learned how teachings, traditions, and cultural practices are shared and honored across Indigenous communities. They then had the opportunity to create their own dreamcatchers, reflecting on the importance of connection, creativity, and cultural understanding.

Ts’iłq’u is a FREE Family Workshop Series for caregivers of ASD students.

Join our July Beaded Phone Holder cohort.

Hands-on cultural activities

Supportive parenting conversations

Free meals

Free on-site childcare

Dates: July 21–August 6

Location: TBD

Sign up today:

https://forms.gle/26R2rcrQv21CZ4AP6

Sometimes, learning can be delicious! Students wrapped up their learning about respectful harvest practices and food science, by making dandelion jelly from flowers that they harvested this week.
Anchorage School District

Ts’iłq’u is a FREE Family Workshop Series for caregivers of ASD students.

Join our July Vestpuk cohort at Alaska Native Cultural Charter School.
Hands-on cultural sewing
Supportive parenting conversations
Free meals
Free on-site childcare

Dates: July 28–August 13

Sign up today:
https://forms.gle/B31VHsSjLWSvk7r37

Questions:
Diana, 907-744-2232

Our Summer Enrichment students continued learning traditional JNYO games while exploring the history, teachings, and cultural significance behind them.

We are excited for these athletes to join JNYO and NYO teams across the district!

School District

Students in our Indigenous Education Summer Enrichment Camp attend language classes. In this, they have the opportunity to learn about Yup'ik song and dance, connecting language, and culture in a meaningful way.

Through song and dance, students explored the rich traditions of Yup'ik culture while building their understanding of language and the stories, values, and knowledge carried within it, and other Indigenous cultures.

Learning through experience helps bring language to life and strengthens connections to community and culture.

Anchorage School District

Creativity met sustainability today at Summer Enrichment!

Students created handmade paper from recycled materials and added native seeds to make plantable paper. The finished pieces can be used to share a kind message, reflection, drawing, or words of appreciation for an important person in their lives. Once shared, the paper can be planted, allowing something new to grow from their words and artwork.

This activity encouraged students to think about stewardship, relationships, and the ways our actions can continue to have a positive impact long after they're shared.

Anchorage School District

Students in our Indigenous Education Summer Enrichment Program have been hard at work creating their own drums!

Drum making is more than a skill, it is an opportunity to learn about cultural traditions, patience, craftsmanship, and the importance of music and storytelling within Indigenous communities.

Each student was able to design their drum, choosing to add art that was meaningful to them, and the results are beautiful! We can't wait to post their final results!

Anchorage School District