At St. Joseph's Indian School, our privately-funded programs for Lakota (Sioux) children in need have evolved over 90 years of family partnership, experience and education. Because of generous friends who share tax-deductible donations, Native American youth receive a safe, stable home life; individual counseling and guidance; carefully planned curriculum based on Lakota culture and individual student needs and tools to help build confidence, boost self-esteem and improve cultural awareness. All of this helps children to live a bright, productive, possibility-filled future.
Students take part in smudging at St. Joseph’s Indian School.
St. Joseph’s Indian School, located in Chamberlain, SD, has a unique way of incorporating both Christian and Native American traditions into daily activities. Two of these practices are the use of holy water and Lakota smudging. Although they may seem different, both traditions have important spiritual significance and are valued in their respective cultures. Continue reading “Holy Water and Lakota Smudging: The Similarities and Differences”
Donations to St. Joseph’s Indian School are used to provide Lakota children with everything they need from school supplies and clothing to food and a safe home.
St. Joseph’s Indian School has been an integral part of helping Native American children since 1927 … that’s nearly 100 years! Over this time, we’ve garnered a reputation for providing quality education, safe homes, healthcare, food, clothing and more for Lakota (Sioux) children, grades one through 12 in Chamberlain, South Dakota.
We know there are other organizations that knock on your door, call your phone or send you mail. It may leave you wondering … Why should I trust St. Joseph’s Indian School? Why your organization over another? What makes you so special?
The St. Joseph’s Indian School eighth grade graduating Class of 2023.
On Friday, May 26th, 15 students were honored as they finished their grade school years at St. Joseph’s Indian School. One of the most joyful events of the year, graduation is always a celebration of thiyóšpaye – extended family – among relatives, staff and students of the school. Continue reading “Fifteen Graduate from St. Joseph’s Indian School Grade School”
Because children live and learn at St. Joseph’s Indian School, they end up spending quite a bit of time on campus. Everything is here! All of
their needs are met in one place!
St. Joseph’s Indian School announces the graduation of six seniors from its high school program, which partners with Chamberlain High School. Graduation was Saturday, May 13.
“These focused students of diverse talents and experience have great career plans,” noted St. Joseph’s President Mike Tyrell. “A piece of our heart goes with them into the future, we acknowledge how their efforts have made all of us better people and we are grateful to have them in our extended family.” Continue reading “St. Joseph’s Indian School Announces Graduation of Six from High School Program”
Teachers are more than educators at St. Joseph’s Indian School, they’re the heroes of the classroom!
This week, St. Joseph’s Indian School celebrated Teacher Appreciation Week, where we took time to recognize and show gratitude to the dedicated educators who work tirelessly to inspire and educate our Native American students.
It’s easy to overlook the hard work and commitment that teachers put in on a daily basis, but at St. Joseph’s, we know they are the unsung heroes in our classrooms. Teachers are not just educators, they are mentors, role models and trusted adults who touch the lives of young people in meaningful ways. Continue reading “Teachers Share Why They Love St. Joseph’s Indian School”
St. Joseph’s Indian School students stand together to bring awareness to Mental Health Awareness Month!
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Learn about the ways St. Joseph’s Indian School is tackling mental health struggles for our Native American students and pass on your knowledge to others.
St. Joseph’s Indian School is dedicated to providing Native American children with a quality education and support services in an effort they have every opportunity to lead a bright future. One of the most important programs on campus is the mental health and counseling program, which has had a significant impact on the lives of students. Continue reading “Overcoming Mental Health Battles, One Student at a Time”
Third graders at St. Joseph’s Indian School studied historical figures and took part in a Wax Museum activity.
Many of us have joy-filled childhood memories of dress-up days and pretending to be someone famous. St. Joseph’s Indian School’s third-grade teachers, Melissa and Jen, combined these two happy pastimes for their students in a wax museum experience in March. The day coincided with on-campus parent-teacher conferences, so families got to join in the fun.
Nineteen students wore period clothing related to a historical figure of their choice. Each child studied their person and prepared to act the part. When prompted by the push of a button, the mannequin-still students came to life and recited their biographies. Continue reading “Young Historians Create Wax Museum at St. Joseph’s Indian School”