At St. Joseph’s Indian School, every student has a story. Some stories are rooted in athletics, others in overcoming challenges, and some, like Marybella’s, are destined for the stars.
Marybella, a bright and determined high school student, has been part of our St. Joseph’s family since the third grade. From the moment she joined our community, her potential was unmistakable. Her natural talent for mathematics quickly became apparent, and by the time she reached junior high, she was already excelling in high school-level courses. But Marybella isn’t just crunching numbers — she’s calculating trajectories, dreaming of one day working with NASA and contributing to the space program.
Marybella applied to the prestigious Advanced Space Academy in Huntsville, Alabama to turn her dreams into reality. This summer, she will spend six days immersed in astronaut training, earning a college credit hour in general science while gaining hands-on experience. She’ll train like an astronaut using the 1/6th Gravity Chair and Multi-Axis Trainer, build and launch a rocket, experience neutral buoyancy in the Underwater Astronaut Trainer and so much more!
Getting to Space Camp won’t be easy — there are many expenses to cover, including the cost of the camp itself and airfare to Alabama. Instead of letting these obstacles stand in her way, these challenges have only fueled Marybella’s excitement and determination to make her dream a reality. Marbella has embraced her Lakota heritage by using her sewing talent to create a ribbon skirt and ribbon shirt to fundraise for her trip. By selling raffle tickets to St. Joseph’s staff, her beautiful handmade designs have helped her raise over $1,200 toward her goal.
“My heart overflows with gratitude,” Marybella shared. “Words can’t fully capture the feeling of being so loved and supported. It’s truly inspiring to know that my St. Joseph’s family believes in my potential. My thiyóšpaye — extended family — has fueled my extraterrestrial dreams with rocket fuel!”
At St. Joseph’s Indian School, we believe every child has the potential to achieve greatness. Marybella’s story reminds us that no dream is too big.
As Marybella prepares to head to Huntsville this June, she carries with her the dreams of a brighter future made only possibly through the support of her thiyóšpaye — extended family.
“Thanks to you, I’m almost halfway to my goal,” she said. “I promise to honor your support in every way.”
Marybella’s story is far from over. Her time at Space Camp will undoubtedly be just one step in her journey that will lead her to the stars — and beyond.
Stay tuned as we follow Marybella’s incredible journey. Philámayaye — thank you — for partnering with St. Joseph’s Indian School to help Lakota (Sioux) children aim for the stars!
To learn more about St. Joseph’s Indian School, visit stjo.org today.
Congratulation Marybella! Your hard work and determination are paying off. We are a family of math enthusiasts, and so I especially relate to your story. Just keep doing what you are doing. You are making good use of the opportunities that have been put within your reach.