At St. Joseph’s Indian School, the fun never falls … It just keeps on rising! Especially when Native American children attend Rising Eagle Day Camp! Speaking of rising … We experienced a RISE in fun and a RISE in our camper numbers! This year Rising Eagle Day Camp served 764 children. That is an increase of 34 kids compared to the 2023 camp season.
So, how did we entertain 764 children? By having FUN! The campers experienced an unforgettable summer camp by participating in an array of activities, such as playing games, enjoying a healthy breakfast, learning Lakota culture and language, eating a healthy lunch, swimming with friends, making arts and crafts and eating a snack outside.
In total, camp is four weeks long and divided into two different sessions. This year, children from the Crow Creek reservation attended the first two weeks and children from the Lower Brule reservation attended the last two weeks. To keep kids entertained at their learning levels, camp includes two age groups: six to nine and 10 to 14.
To begin the day, campers get off the bus and head straight to the dining hall for a yummy, nutritious breakfast. Ella, a 10-year-old camper, said she loved coming off the bus and eating breakfast right away.
“That breakfast pizza was so good. I loved the crust!” exclaimed Ella.
After breakfast, younger kids play a fun outdoor game, while the older kids headed into the classroom to learn inspiring and important Lakota knowledge.
“I know a lot of Lakota numbers! I can count up to 10 in Lakota,” said JDean, a nine-year-old camper.
“I learned these words in Lakota: tȟaspáŋ — apple; šúŋkawakȟáŋ — horse; and tĥózi — green,” said Oakland, a nine-year-old camper.
After exercising their brains and bodies, both age groups quickly lined-up to walk over to the dining hall to eat a delicious lunch! Each lunch incorporates the five main food categories: protein, vegetable, fruit, grain and dairy.
“My favorite food has been chicken patties at the St. Joseph’s summer camp!” said Ella.
“My favorite meal has been walking tacos! I loved the chips!” said Oakland.
After refueling their tummies, it was time to burn off some more energy! How do they burn off more energy, exactly? By having more FUN! The kids had recess and free time where their creativity and imaginations could flourish! Most kids enjoyed this time by rolling down the big grassy hill located right next to the beloved playground!
What was next on the agenda? Almost every single kid’s favorite thing at camp … SWIMMING!
“My favorite activity is swimming because I get to JUMP IN THE POOL!” said Ella.
Once all the kids’ hands are pruned and wrinkly from an afternoon of swimming, it is time to get crafty!
The kids sit at a long table filled with craft supplies, such as markers, crayons, scissors, glue, cotton balls, colored paper, coloring sheets and so much more! They brainstorm what they would like to create.
“I made a little house out of paper. I grabbed cotton balls that are big and colored them since they are always white and then I put them on the bottom. It was really cool!” explained Ella.
“I made a jellyfish and a fish in arts and crafts!” said JDean.
Carefully placing their prized artwork in their bags or folders, the kids then pack-up to head home for the day. However, before loading the bus, there is one more FUN thing to do at camp … Can you guess what it is?
Before heading home, it is time to … eat a SNACK!
Gathering around what we call Wisdom Circle on campus, the kids enjoy a snack under the giant, shady trees. We love using the end of the day for a well-needed rest, rejuvenation and reflection.
Reflecting on Rising Eagle Day Camp, Evan, a Rec Center Associate at St. Joseph’s Indian School, said, “We create a fun, inviting atmosphere for the kids at camp. I think camp is special because it is an opportunity to highlight our campus, staff and all the things that St. Joseph’s has to offer. Camp is always ‘organized chaos’ in the best way possible and never fails to get a smile out of everyone involved.”
BEEP! BEEP! Time to load the bus!
To learn more about St. Joseph’s Indian School, visit stjo.org today.
I’m so glad the children have the opportunity to attend this camp. It must be a good respite for them. Keep up the good work St. Joseph’s!
I am so glad the children get to experience these wonderful things!