A Memorable Visit: Embracing Lakota Culture and Building Connections

Cultures collide in the best way when German students from our sister school gather with our St. Joseph’s Indian School students as part of an annual exchange program.

Did you know St. Joseph’s Indian School has a sister school in Germany? Yes! The school is called Gymnasium Leonium in Handrup, Germany. Why? It all ties back to our roots in Germany, where founder Fr. Leo John Dehon originated the Priests of the Sacred Heart. Continue reading “A Memorable Visit: Embracing Lakota Culture and Building Connections”

A “Hole” Lot of Love and Generosity: The Journey of a Fox Fur Coat

Angelina proudly wears the beautifully restored fox fur coat donated by a generous benefactor.

At St. Joseph’s Indian School, we often witness incredible acts of kindness and generosity that leave us in awe. Recently, a story unfolded that reminded us of how God can turn an unfortunate event into something extraordinarily good. Continue reading “A “Hole” Lot of Love and Generosity: The Journey of a Fox Fur Coat”

2024: A Year in Review

We’re looking back at 2024 with nothing but gratitude!

2024 … what a year!

As we look back on the year 2024, St. Joseph’s Indian School is proud to celebrate a year full of achievements, growth and community spirit. From academic accomplishments to cultural celebrations, our students and staff have worked tirelessly to make this year one to remember. Continue reading “2024: A Year in Review”

Christmas Magic at St. Joseph’s Indian School: A Heartwarming Tradition

Staff members lovingly wrap each present, transforming them into beautifully decorated gifts that add to the festive cheer and excitement of the holiday season.

The holiday season sparkles with magic at St. Joseph’s Indian School, where the annual Christmas Store transforms the Depot into a festive wonderland of giving and joy.

This annual tradition of the Christmas Store stands out as a beloved highlight every December. Lakota (Sioux) students get the opportunity to experience the magic of giving first-hand. However, this unique event is not just about presents; it’s about creating cherished memories, fostering generosity and bringing students and staff together to celebrate the love and kindness shared by generous donors. Continue reading “Christmas Magic at St. Joseph’s Indian School: A Heartwarming Tradition”

Deck the Halls in Style: 12 Days of Christmas Dress-Up Days

Two students proudly show off their tackiest holiday attire, kicking off Ugly Sweater Day with a splash of festive fashion and fun.

The holiday season arrived and Christmas magic thrived at St. Joseph’s Indian School. Snowflakes danced their way down from the sky above. Winking and shimmering lights turned ordinary rooms into cozy, comfy spaces. Down the hallways, sounds of tiny feet skipping along to cheerful Christmas tunes filled the school. Students dressed in their coziest, most colorful pajamas and made their way to a steaming cup of hot cocoa — their smiles as sweet as the marshmallows waiting for them.

Are you feeling the Christmas magic yet? Continue reading “Deck the Halls in Style: 12 Days of Christmas Dress-Up Days”

Third Graders Explore the World, One Habitat at a Time

Our third-graders proudly present their vibrant habitat projects, showcasing the wonders of rainforests, deserts, and oceans. Each display is a testament to their curiosity and creativity.

Are they really third-grade students … or mini eco-explorers?!

At St. Joseph’s Indian School, our third-grade class recently embarked on an exciting journey to explore the wonders of nature through their habitat projects. These projects are more than just a regular classroom activity — they’re a chance for students to dive into the fascinating diversity of our planet and showcase their creativity, knowledge and public speaking skills. Continue reading “Third Graders Explore the World, One Habitat at a Time”

It’s All about Family at St. Joseph’s Indian School

Our campus Family Night was a big hit! Literally, a big hit in the face with pie for a few chosen staff members!

On November 20, St. Joseph’s celebrated the gift of family with staff and students. In a years-long tradition, the school gathered in groups of siblings and thiyóšpaye  extended family — for an evening of games and good eats. At St. Joseph’s, thiyóšpaye is a concept of pride and reverence, and whether a child attends the school for one day or many years, they are considered a member of the school’s family. Continue reading “It’s All about Family at St. Joseph’s Indian School”

Native American Scholar Builds Career with St. Joseph’s Scholarship

Through the generosity of donors, St. Joseph’s Indian School has awarded scholarship dollars to Native American students since 1985.

Taivin Fallis will graduate this spring from Lake Area Technical College in Watertown, S.D., as a Build Dakota Scholar. Fallis is in the school’s Building Trades Technology Program.

A 2023 graduate of St. Joseph’s Indian School’s High School Program, Fallis is one of this fall’s 113 Čhaŋkú Lúta Scholarship recipients. He attended St. Joseph’s from fourth-through-twelfth grades. Continue reading “Native American Scholar Builds Career with St. Joseph’s Scholarship”

National Food Day: Bible Story Serves as Model for St. Joseph’s Outreach Program

October 24 is National Food Day! Read about one important outreach program at St. Joseph’s Indian School that works to fight hunger.

In the Bible story “Feeding of the Five Thousand,” or more commonly recognized as “The story of loaves and fishes,” Jesus performs a miracle by multiplying five loaves of bread and two fish to feed a large crowd of people who had gathered to hear His teachings.*

As you may remember from the story, some of the disciples were doubtful they could manage to feed everyone. In fact, they suggested they send the crowd away. Continue reading “National Food Day: Bible Story Serves as Model for St. Joseph’s Outreach Program”

St. Joseph’s Indian School Celebrates Native American Week

Houseparent Philip watches the St. Joseph’s Indian School entries pass by in the Sioux Falls Native American Day Parade. The school’s floats honored the buffalo, the natural world and Lakota values.

Because one day isn’t enough and one activity can’t say it all, staff and students at St. Joseph’s Indian School extended the cultural celebration of Native American Day from Sunday to Friday. Each day unveiled more of the richness and diversity of their Lakota, Dakota and Nakota heritage through prayer, fun, dance, language, lessons, clothing and art. Continue reading “St. Joseph’s Indian School Celebrates Native American Week”