St. Joseph's Indian School

There are many buildings on the campus of St. Joseph’s Indian School. But, one seems to shine brighter than all the rest, especially on Sunday mornings.

Our Lady of the Sioux Chapel, with its scrawling ivy that beams bright green in the summer and amber in the fall, stands as a beacon of light … of hope … of faith in a higher power. It’s also an illustration of the Lakota (Sioux) culture. The stained glass windows glisten in the sun with shimmering blues, greens, yellows and reds. Continue reading “The Chapel: A Symbol of Hope at St. Joseph’s Indian School”

St. Joseph’s Indian School was recently named a “2023 Top-Rated Nonprofit” for the seventh year running by GreatNonprofits, the leading provider of user reviews of charities and nonprofits. Continue reading “St. Joseph’s Indian School Repeats as Top-Rated Nonprofit”

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”

St. Joseph’s Indian School High School Program juniors and seniors embarked on the first-ever Wičhóni Wašte (Good Life) Retreat this past spring!

The retreat day, called “The Summit,” came about after Joe, Mission Integration Director, listened to student feedback and consulted with Mount Marty University and the University of Notre Dame regarding similar experiences those schools provide. Continue reading “Wičhóni Wašte Retreat Provides St. Joseph’s Indian School Students Opportunity for Reflection”

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?

Well, we can come up with countless reasons, but we want to hit you with five reasons why donors can trust St. Joseph’s Indian School. Continue reading “Five Reasons Why Donors Can Trust St. Joseph’s Indian School”

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!

Although this is wonderful, it is also important to provide students with opportunities to experience new communities and involvements off campus. It’s important for them to broaden their horizons and minds to
other places and cultures. Continue reading “St. Joseph’s Students Give Back to Someone in Need, Learn Meaning of Generosity”

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”

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”

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”