National Native American Heritage Month 2024

November is National Native American Heritage Month, a time our district and schools celebrate the significant and countless contributions, rich and diverse ancestry, cultures, traditions, and histories of our nation’s first people.

Federal Way Public Schools acknowledge that our schools are on the traditional homelands of the Puyallup and Muckleshoot Tribes. The Puyallup and Muckleshoot people have lived on and stewarded these lands since the beginning of time and continue to do so today. We recognize that this land acknowledgement is one small step toward true allyship, and we commit to uplifting the voices, experiences, and histories of the Indigenous people of this land and beyond. 

We are honored to join in ensuring a strengthened and meaningful public-tribal relationship with our closest federally recognized tribe, The Puyallup Tribe.  FWPS is deeply committed in cultivating relationships with our local tribal community, educating our scholars on Native American history and the ancestral lands we reside on, and supporting our scholars who identify as Native Americans. Learn more about the FWPS Native Education Program.

Heritage Month is more than just a month. We want our schools to be a mirror of our community – a place where every scholar has a sense of belonging and can be seen, valued, and heard. Our scholars benefit from learning about and celebrating all cultures.

Join FWPS in using this time to raise awareness and share stories, knowledge and resources and about Indigenous histories, cultures, and traditions throughout our yearly curriculum toward honoring and inviting the truth.

Here are additional resources to help you explore Native American Heritage and Culture:

• PBS Native American Heritage Month documentaries and videos
• Library of Congress Native American Heritage Month
• National Park Service
• Interactive Native Land Map by Native Land Digital
• King County Library System curated list of Native American Authors for all ages
• The Puyallup Tribe Website
• The Muckleshoot Indian Tribe Website
• Illuminative
• Native Knowledge 360° Education Interactive Teaching Resources
• Native Education | OSPI
• Puyallup Tribal Language

View additional recognitions in the FWPS Cultural & Religious Calendar here: www.fwps.org/culturalcalendar

Puyallup Tribe Engages with FWPS Schools to Celebrate and Share Native Heritage

Puyallup Tribe representatives, led by Heritage Division Curriculum Developer and School Liaison Patricia Conway, recently visited Valhalla Elementary, Lakota Middle School, and Federal Way High School in an enriching tour of Federal Way Public Schools (FWPS). The visit highlighted FWPS's commitment to incorporating the Since Time Immemorial: Tribal Sovereignty in Washington State (STI) curriculum, showcasing the district’s ongoing efforts to celebrate Native American heritage and culture.

“This year, I wanted to go to classrooms, meet with school representatives, and build meaningful relationships with the schools,” shared Ms. Conway during her visit. She was joined by FWPS Superintendent Dr. Dani Pfeiffer and district leadership, reflecting the strong partnership between FWPS and the Puyallup Tribe.

Valhalla Elementary: Alaskan Native Games in Action

At Valhalla Elementary, the Puyallup tribal delegation joined a special physical education session led by teacher Sean Syder, where students showcased their skills in traditional Alaskan Native games, such as the Alaskan high kick and kneel jump. Inspired by a suggestion from a Native Alaskan parent, Mr. Syder introduced students to the Native Youth Olympics in celebration of National Native American Heritage Month. These games, held annually in Alaska, are designed to develop essential physical skills, preserve traditional contests, and honor Indigenous culture. Through these activities, students not only engaged in physical challenges but also gained a deeper appreciation of Indigenous traditions, fostering respect and cultural understanding.

Federal Way High School: Integrating Native Culinary Practices and Heritage

At Federal Way High School, Sherry Kerr’s culinary arts class showcased Indigenous culinary practices, with Native scholars sharing insights into traditional foods. Last school year, FWHS Culinary Arts students won the People’s Choice Award at the Bite of the Apprentice fundraiser by creating bison meatballs with cranberries and wild rice, complemented by a cranberry-juniper sauce and peppermint-nettle tea. This unit, developed in partnership with King County Career Launchpad and the FWPS Native Education Program, allowed students to honor Native food traditions while gaining valuable culinary skills.

Ms. Conway also engaged with students from the FWHS Native American Club, advised by history teacher Heather Wren, learning about club activities that honor Native heritage and discussing ways the tribe can provide ongoing support.

“We came to see all the incredible learning and growth happening here,” Ms. Conway remarked to Ms. Wren’s classroom, emphasizing the importance of FWPS’s efforts in fostering inclusive cultural education.

Dr. Dani Pfeiffer added, “Our partnership with the Puyallup Tribe provides our students with invaluable experiences that enrich their education and deepen their understanding of Indigenous history and culture. This is an essential part of our commitment to a more inclusive curriculum that celebrates diversity.”

Lakota Middle School: Garden to Cafeteria and Native Plant Lessons

Over at the Lakota Middle School’s garden, students demonstrated their work with the Tend, Gather, and Grow curriculum. The garden is a hands-on learning space where students cultivated native plants and herbs, later served in school meals. Students prepared this fresh herbal tea for their guests, explaining their learning and the significance of these plants to Indigenous heritage. The Lushootseed language signage in the garden further enriches students’ connection to Native culture. Learn more about FWPS Garden to Cafeteria program here.

Celebrating Native Heritage Across FWPS

The Puyallup Tribe representatives were introduced to various FWPS programs supporting Native heritage education. From storytelling units to the Storming the Sound with Salmon project, FWPS students are immersed in activities connecting them to Native culture. The Since Time Immemorial (STI) curriculum extends across subjects like English Language Arts, Social-Emotional Learning, Career and Technical Education, history, and social studies, reflecting FWPS’s holistic approach to cultural inclusion.

In a powerful message to scholars at Federal Way High School, Ms. Conway shared, “Now, in 2024, multiple initiatives are in place to benefit not just Native people but all of you. The integration of the Lushootseed language into classrooms is a significant milestone—it hasn’t happened in hundreds of years. We encourage you to learn this language and embrace the legacy of all our ancestors.”

The Puyallup Tribe continues to be an invaluable partner, supporting FWPS through consultations, grants, and collaborative curriculum development, ensuring Native history and culture are celebrated within educational spaces.

Honoring Native Heritage: FWPS Integrates Tribal Knowledge and Sustainability into Student Learning

Local Native American tribes that have inhabited our lands since time immemorial, such as the Muckleshoot and Puyallup tribes, have long been dedicated to the stewardship of the rivers, forests, and seas that sustain us all. At FWPS, Native American education, knowledge, and culture are not only taught and celebrated but also extend far beyond the classroom, deeply intertwined with the land and environment.

FWPS is dedicated to honoring and teaching Native American heritage and culture, seamlessly integrating it into our curriculum and instructional practices. The "Since Time Immemorial" curriculum, approved by the state and endorsed by all 29 federally recognized tribes in Washington, is designed to educate students from PK-12 on tribal history, culture, and sovereignty, while addressing both historical and contemporary tribal issues.

At Lakota Middle School, Ms. McCrummen’s gardening class provides seventh and eighth graders with hands-on learning experiences in the school’s garden. One of these experiences included learning how to carefully harvest and prepare three native plants, sweetgrass or lemon balm, elderberries, and rose hips, for food and medicine. Guided by Truman Campus scholars, FWPS Native Education Coordinator Amanda Rambayon, and FWPS School Gardens Coordinator Danielle Harrington, scholars had a wonderful time sharing their insights with each other. 

“One thing we learned is, ‘Don’t just take the plants, take them for a reason, take them for good use,” shared eighth grader Annabelle.

These three plants and other produce grown and harvested in the garden will eventually find their way into students' lunches through the Garden to Cafeteria program, initiated by the Nutrition Services department in several schools. This initiative strengthens the district’s gardens and promotes agricultural learning, all while supporting sustainable meal sourcing.

Scholars are also growing herbs that are processed at the school and served as tea during lunch.

“It’s nice to be able to give kids fresh food,” shared Ollie, a junior at Career Academy. “Native people have been using plants for a long time. It’s great that new generations are learning how to utilize them.”

In addition to harvesting, students also learned how to braid sweetgrass.

“We braided sweetgrass in honor of nature because it’s ‘nature’s hair,’ and it represents its beauty.” Annabelle added that “It’s important to learn about Native American culture because we want to keep their traditions going.”

“Sweetgrass is used for smudging and has medicinal properties. We’re also exploring rose hips and elderberries, both of which are medicinal,” said Margalo, another junior at Career Academy. 

Other students have expressed enthusiasm for the district's efforts to incorporate Native American knowledge into the curriculum.

Native scholar Seyda, a member of the Choctaw Nation, “Sweetgrass has deep cultural ties, and elderberry is known for its medicinal uses, especially for colds. I’m excited to learn more about this process.” 

“I’m indigenous and eager to learn more and connect with my roots. Understanding the impact of natural medicine in our area and delving into my tribe’s heritage is incredibly meaningful. This experience is truly educational,” concluded Seyda.

The Teaching Powers of Native American Storytelling and Culinary Arts

Storytelling and culinary traditions hold a central place in Native American cultures. Each story imparts a valuable lesson, while every dish narrates a tale of its own, reflecting a deep respect for the natural world that surrounds us. 

Once a month, scholars at our schools enjoy a special menu item prepared at our central kitchen: Three Sisters Bison Stew. This hearty, chili-like stew features bison and the three sisters––corn, beans, and squash––and is served alongside the Hodinöhsö:ni' story of the Three Sisters. During advisory, scholars learn about the Three Sisters story and then have the option to choose the stew for lunch. A beautiful video about the legend also plays on the screens while scholars receive their lunch, further enriching the experience.

In the mini-lesson, scholars learn that plants tell their own stories not through words, but through their actions. According to Hodinöhsö:ni' legend, three sisters emerged from the body of Sky Woman’s daughter, bestowing the gift of agriculture upon the tribes. Each sister, distinct in appearance and personality, lived in harmony, supporting one another’s growth.

The Three Sisters, when planted together, exemplify harmony, balance, and reciprocity. They nourish the people, enrich the land, and spark imaginations, teaching valuable lessons about how we can coexist and thrive.

Evergreen Middle School scholar Anna (Blackfeet) deeply appreciates the learning opportunities surrounding Native American culture at her school, particularly during National Native American Heritage Month. 

"It means a lot to me because I love my tribe and my culture. You learn about the culture and what other people do for their cultures and tribes," she shared. Her words reflect the broader impact of these lessons, fostering pride in identity while promoting cultural understanding among all scholars.

The Three Sisters Mini-Lesson and video are part of the Native Plants and Foods lessons in our Native Education program, intended for all grades across the district. The lessons are designed not only to share the wisdom of the past and the present but also to instill values of sustainability and reciprocity.

Storytelling at Brigadoon

In Ms. Souk’s second-grade classroom, students explored legends and stories from local tribal communities and Native authors. They had the exciting opportunity to reenact the Skokomish legend, “How Daylight Came to Be,” using hand puppets they had colored themselves. This legend, part of the “Indian Reading Series: Stories and Legends of the Northwest,” showcases culturally relevant narratives crafted by local Native authors and artists, providing an authentic connection to the region’s heritage.

 

 

 

 

 

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Meanwhile, first-graders in the library watched a captivating video of U.S. Poet Laureate Joy Harjo (Muscogee) reciting her poem “Remember.” This introduction to Native American storytelling, combined with the stunning visuals from the video, inspired scholars for their next project: coloring bears, salmon, orcas, or wolves using motifs and shapes inspired by Native art, such as moon crescents. Their colorful creations now adorn boards throughout the library, transforming the space into a celebration of Native artistry.

In Ms. Boutwell’s kindergarten class, students learn the art of storytelling and learning to treat nature with respect and care. Similarly, Ms. Jones’ kindergarten class watched a video exploring the rich traditions of Alaskan Native cultures, further enhancing their understanding and appreciation of Native American heritage and contemporary traditions that have existed since time immemorial.

Federal Way Public Schools’ celebrations of Native American Heritage Month exemplify the power of education to honor and uplift diverse cultures. From the Three Sisters Bison Stew and storytelling lessons to creative art projects and vibrant displays, these experiences not only enriched student learning but also fostered a deeper appreciation for the enduring traditions and wisdom of Native communities. As we continue to learn from these stories and values, we reaffirm our commitment to cultivating a school environment that embraces diversity, celebrates heritage, and inspires future generations to cherish and carry forward these teachings.

Celebrating Native American Heritage Month in Federal Way Public Schools

Federal Way Public Schools proudly embraces the rich diversity of its Native American students and staff, whose dedication to sharing their culture creates opportunities for learning and unity. Throughout Native American Heritage Month, schools hosted assemblies and events that celebrated Native traditions and knowledge, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Native cultures across the district.

Thomas Jefferson High School Hosts First-Ever Native American Assembly 

The Native Coalition Club at Thomas Jefferson High School organized its inaugural Native American Assembly, drawing a packed gym of enthusiastic students and staff. The event highlighted the beauty and significance of Native culture through engaging activities, including traditional Native games, a trivia competition, and a communal round dance led by club members who shared their tribal affiliations and personal connections to their heritage.

Linh, a senior and ally of the club, captured the assembly's mission: 

“We want to raise awareness about Native culture, explain the significance of Native Heritage Month, and discuss the importance of land acknowledgment."

Sapphire, a senior and member of the Oglala Lakota tribe, emphasized the dual focus of the event: “We aim to make it both fun and educational.” For her, celebrating this heritage month is crucial because it symbolizes “representation for the 50 to 60 students at Thomas Jefferson who are connected to a tribe.” She believes that such events help amplify their voices.

“Native American Heritage Month is very personal to me. I haven't been involved with my culture recently, but I'm starting to reconnect by attending powwows, beating drums, and singing,” Sapphire shared. “It's a reminder of my identity and the importance of embracing my culture. This is our time to shine and say, ‘We are here, and we are doing amazing things!’”

The club members drew inspiration from other student organizations at their school and hope to motivate others to celebrate and recognize Native American heritage as well.

Valhalla Elementary Celebrates Native Diversity

Valhalla Elementary brought together students and special guests for a meaningful assembly that explored the diversity and significance of Native American cultures. Representatives from the Muckleshoot Tribal College opened with a land acknowledgment, connecting the students to the history and meaning of the land they share.

Justice Bill, Instructional Coordinator at Muckleshoot Tribal College, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to engage with students:

“It’s important for them to know who we are and about our ancestral homeland, where they are.”

The assembly also welcomed members of the Native American Coalition Club from Sacajawea Middle School. Assistant Principal Dr. Dennis Eller (Cherokee), alongside students Helena (Cowichan) and Piper (Turtle Mountain Chippewa), highlighted the diversity within Native communities. Dr. Eller recounted the Cherokee tale of “How the Terrapin Beat the Rabbit” to engage the young audience, illustrating the storytelling activities the club offers. “We share stories of all our tribes because everyone has something to learn from each other,” he said, encouraging students to consider starting or joining a Native Coalition Club.

Eighth grader Helena passionately stated, “I want people to understand that we are still here, and we are spreading our culture.”

Seventh grader Piper added, “It’s important for me to be here to show all these children how crucial it is to respect our native lands and the concept of land acknowledgment.” She also highlighted the fun activities the Coalition Club organizes, such as dances for pep assemblies and talent shows.

Raymond Kingfisher (Cheyenne), a regular volunteer at Truman Campus, concluded the event with drumming, a round dance, and reflections on the importance of educating young minds about Native heritage:

“It’s important to educate these children about the existence of the tribes that were here in the past and that are here now."

Valhalla third-grade teacher Lina Older highlighted the broader impact of the assembly:

“By understanding their experiences, students can gain a deeper cultural awareness of tribal history and promote cultural appreciation.”

These celebrations underscore FWPS's commitment to honoring and amplifying the voices of its Native American students, fostering a school community that values diversity and shared understanding.

 

 

 

 

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