Native American Week Kicks Off At Northside School
The Northside School began Native American Week activities by erecting a teepee, holding a staff dance-off and other activities. Activities district-wide are being held through Sept. 24.
Chante Project director Marty Reum led students and teachers at Northside in the morning, Monday, Sept. 21. Local journalist and community organizer Lance Fourstar also emceed. Drumming and singing were performed by well known Canadian Indian singer and recording artist Harvey Dreaver and Rezkast Radio’s Nakoa HeavyRunner.
Reum led a handful of teachers, administrators and district staff in a dance competition following the teepee raising. Teacher Brandy Burshia won among the women and Thomas Olsen was dethroned after winning last year’s contest by teacher Andrew Tumonong. The point of the activity, said Reum, was to show the students that adults can do things that make them uncomfortable.
“Now when your teachers ask you to step outside your comfort zones,” said Reum, “you’ll know that they were willing to step outside their comfort zones too.”
Throughout the week, activities at Northside will include participation in the district’s virtual powwow, a presentation from Health Promotion Disease Prevention on Alaska Heritage, a war hoop contest with awards going to the loudest class.
Activities at the junior high and high schools include speakers (via Zoom) Michael Spears, Gary Farmer, Jonny Bearcub Stiffarm and Lance Armstrong.
Jalen Atchico hosted a teepee raising outside on the east lawn at the high school.
Corresponding Spirit Week themes are as follows: Monday is “wear your hair in braids” day, Tuesday is traditional footwear day, Wednesday is “beadwork and patterns” and Thursday is “ribbons and regalia.”
