St. Joseph's Indian School

Picture this: a room full of laughter as students tilt their heads back, eyes squinting in concentration, trying to wiggle an Oreo from their foreheads down to their mouths — without using their hands. Cheers erupt when someone finally succeeds, and the whole family group celebrates together.

It’s silly, it’s joyful and it’s exactly the kind of memory that makes Thiyóšpaye Night at St. Joseph’s Indian School so unforgettable. Continue reading “Celebrating Thiyóšpaye Night: One Family, Many Hearts”

At the 49th Annual Powwow at St. Joseph’s Indian School, a moment of deep gratitude and celebration unfolded as Robert and Yolanda Kramer — longtime supporters of St. Joseph’s Indian School and cherished members of the DreamMakers monthly giving program — were honored with a star quilt in recognition of their unwavering commitment to the Lakota (Sioux) children. Continue reading “Honoring 70 Years of Love and Generosity: The Kramers Celebrate at St. Joseph’s Powwow”

When Krista from the Alumni Relations team at St. Joseph’s Indian School thinks back to her college days, she remembers a simple joy: care packages from her grandparents. Sweet notes, surprise treats and the occasional “shareable” snack. Those packages always seemed to arrive at the perfect moment, like a warm hug through the mail. Continue reading “A Hug in a Box: St. Joseph’s Sends Love to Čhaŋkú Lúta Scholars”

At St. Joseph’s Indian School, Lakota (Sioux) students recently welcomed visiting artist Randall Blaze, who led an enriching clay‑and‑sculpting workshop. Randall, a prominent member of the South Dakota Arts Council (SDAC) Artists‑in‑Schools Program, shared his remarkable journey in art. Continue reading “Shaping the Future: A Clay Workshop to Remember at St. Joseph’s Indian School”

This fall, St. Joseph’s Indian School proudly awarded $138,500 in scholarships to 86 Native American students pursuing higher education — a powerful testament to the generosity of our donors and the resilience of our scholars. Continue reading “Investing in Dreams: St. Joseph’s Indian School Awards $138,500 in Fall Scholarships”

At St. Joseph’s Indian School, we believe the values we instill in our students — respect, gratitude, hope and integrity — don’t just shape young lives. They ripple outward, touching families, communities and future generations.

Taivin, a proud alum and new father, is living proof. Continue reading “Building a Future: Taivin’s Alumni Story”

Two and a half years ago, we began a marathon — not of miles, but of mission. The Recreation Center at St. Joseph’s Indian School, once a modest space for play and movement, became the focus of a bold vision: to create a sanctuary of wellness, community and hope for the Lakota (Sioux) children and families we serve. Continue reading “Built with Love: The Rec Center Dedication at St. Joseph’s Indian School”

On Wednesday, September 10, St. Joseph’s Indian School held its annual Powwow Royalty Competition, a vibrant and heartfelt tradition that honors student leadership, cultural pride and personal expression. Continue reading “St. Joseph’s Indian School Crowns 2025 Powwow Royalty”

At St. Joseph’s Indian School, we believe learning should be an adventure, not a chore. That’s why this year’s seventh and eighth graders are taking a dynamic lineup of exploratory courses designed to spark creativity, build confidence and maybe even uncover lifelong passions.

These once-a-week classes rotate each quarter, allowing students to try something new every few months. For those who love gaming and strategy, our Esports course runs all semester long, offering a consistent space to build teamwork and digital skills. Continue reading “Exploratory Courses Ignite Curiosity at St. Joseph’s Indian School”

Starting fresh in a new school can feel overwhelming — especially when that school is also your new home. At St. Joseph’s Indian School, staff understand the importance of helping students feel connected and supported from the very beginning. That’s why the Co-Pilot Program was created: to ensure no student has to navigate their first days alone. Continue reading “Building Friendships through Co-Pilot at St. Joseph’s Indian School”