Brainerd School District Making History
By MAAJIITAAZIIBKWEE, MARY SAM
Brainerd School District 181 made history on June 1, 2022, hosting its first Round Dance Graduation Celebration for elementary, middle, and seven high school graduates. Brainerd Districts Indigenous student population is about 2 percent, serving over 220 students annually, with many students from Mille Lacs Band, and also tribal representation from throughout the United States. The event was held at Forestview Middle School.
About five years into its development, the Brainerd Native American Education Program and Native American Parent Committee have been working hard to create systemic and lasting change to meet the needs of its Indigenous students and families. Creating a welcoming, inclusive culture and connection has been a key focus for the Native American Education Program, School Board, and the Districts Equity Committee. Parents serving on the committee have tribal affiliations from Mille Lacs, White Earth, Fond du Lac, Leech Lake, and Potawatomi Nations.
Parent Committee member Govinda Budrow shared her excitement about the event. “Visibility is important for all the successes of graduating, transitioning to another stage of life, remaining and reclaiming who you are. Each and every graduate is a victory.”
Proud Auntie and Parent Committee member Michelle Berger said, “This was a great step in the right direction to meet the equity goals our Parent Committee is striving to achieve. This is one of the many firsts that will take place in Brainerd School.” Michelle is hopeful that these groundbreaking steps will lead towards greater access, success, and a stronger sense of belonging for our young people. “
This was a great honor to help with this event and a lot of fun," said Parent Committee member Tom Adornetto, Potawatomi, newcomer to Minnesota. "It was a great opportunity for me and my children, learning about the round dance, and meeting new Native friends. It’s important for us, even as Indigenous people, to expand understanding of our cultural practices. My family is from Oklahoma, I grew up out east and now Brainerd Schools is helping open doors for our kids to learn, celebrate and build community, within an educational setting.”
Charles Black Lance, the first Indigenous school board member in Brainerd District and Director of the Central Lakes College TRIO Programs, said, “It was a significant event and effort by the parents of Indigenous students and ISD 181 for the recognition and celebration of key steps through the academic careers of our young people.” TRIO Upward Bound provides services to students at Brainerd, Nay Ah Shing, Isle, and Onamia schools to support high school completion and creating a pathway to college. “The district taking action to ensure student success for all students is essential and partnerships within the region support our efforts.”
Native American Education Coordinator Ashley Ingebrigston was grateful to Dan’s Catering for providing a wonderful meal and to singers Les and Chris Gahbow.
In addition to increasing student support and cultural events, the district has partnered with Central Lakes College to address equity, including hosting an annual community powwow, which will occur next year, post COVID-19 restrictions.
For more information on the Brainerd Native American Education Program, contact Ashley at 218- 454-6142.
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