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Seattle Public Schools (SPS) recognizes the significant presence and contributions of Native American and Alaska Native students in the district. The district is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students and has implemented initiatives to integrate Native American education into its schools.

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SPS offers resources such as the American Indian Resource Library, the Native American Education Program, and the American Indian Studies program, which covers traditional and contemporary topics. The district aims to empower students to become well-informed, respectful, and appreciative of diverse cultures and backgrounds.

Seattle is a City-Rich in Tribal History

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Seattle is a city rich in Tribal history and culture. With twenty-nine (29) federally recognized Tribes located in the state of Washington, Native American and Alaska Native students are an invaluable part of the student body in Seattle Public Schools (SPS). SPS recognizes and values the many Tribal Peoples within the community, and we are working in partnership with them to support the academic and cultural success of Native students.

 

Our goal is to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for all students, and that means celebrating and honoring the diversity of our community. To achieve this, SPS has implemented a range of initiatives and programs to integrate Native American Education within our schools. Together with our community partners, we are building a strong foundation for Native American education in Seattle that reflects the richness of their culture and heritage.

Below are some of the resources already in place for our
Students, Staff, and Community Members:

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American Indian Resource Library – The AIRL offers a wealth of resources that center on Native American and Alaska Native viewpoints. In addition to classroom materials and curriculum for educators, the library covers a wide range of topics, from food and nutrition to oral histories and the experiences of Native individuals. Although the AIRL is located at Meany Middle School, its contents are available to all SPS students (and teachers), who can access the library’s catalog through the online portal.

Native American - Education

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Native American Education – SPS’s Native American Education Program is a Referral Service that works with students, parents and guardians, teachers, principals, and SPS departments on a case-by-case basis to address the broad scope of needs our Native students face. We want every family to understand how to navigate the district’s resources. Our goal is to ensure all Native students have a high-quality educational experience and reach the goal of graduation.

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American Indian Studies – Seattle Public Schools' American Indian Studies program celebrates and educates students about the rich history and culture of Native American communities. The comprehensive curriculum covers a diverse array of topics, including traditional stories and art, contemporary issues such as environmental justice and tribal sovereignty, and much more. We aim to produce well-rounded citizens who are informed and respectful of all peoples. The program also includes an internal resource hub for teachers to support them in enhancing their knowledge and providing their students with an inclusive and well-rounded education.

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American Indian Studies Schoology Course – Seattle Public Schools' innovative American Indian Studies Schoology course offers students a self-paced online learning experience exploring Native American history and culture. Topics range from traditional stories and art to contemporary issues such as environmental justice and tribal sovereignty. The comprehensive curriculum is designed to empower students with knowledge and appreciation of diverse cultures and worldviews and is accessible online for busy students.

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We believe that by providing our Native American and Alaska Native students with resources that celebrate and honor their culture and heritage, we are not only supporting their academic success but also creating a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all students. We are committed to building upon the initiatives and programs already in place and working in partnership with our community to ensure that Native American education remains a strong and integral part of Seattle Public Schools.

 

Through our continued collaborative efforts, we hope to inspire and empower our students to become well-rounded citizens who are informed, respectful, and appreciative of all cultures and backgrounds.

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