With over 180 Native American students currently enrolled in our district, it is no question that we need to continue the conversation about how to represent and support the diversity of culture in our education system here in Brainerd. As the newly hired Multicultural Student Support Liaison for the district I intend to do just that. My role is to serve as an advocate and resource to Native American students while enriching our Native American Education Program and encouraging participation in our Native American Parent Advisory Committee.
The Native American Education program seeks to provide cultural and academic support to our Native American youth by encouraging group and club development; incorporating culturally appropriate curriculum and materials; providing cultural enrichment classes and events; as well as post-secondary preparatory support. Program funding is available to our district through Federal Indian Education Formula Grants and the Minnesota Department of Education as a result of agreements made between Tribal nations and the U.S. Federal and State governments.
Our Parent Advisory Committee is an organized group for students, parents and district staff that meets several times per year. This committee advocates for Native American youth by sharing the needs, achievements and concerns for students; giving guidance on appropriate cultural curriculums used in the district; as well as providing cultural support through events, classes and activities.
We are looking forward to enriching Native American Education in the school district with the belief that honoring and preserving cultural values also supports the comprehensive and academic success of our Native American Students.
For those interested in participating in our program and/or committee, please contact me at ashley.ingebrigtson@isd181.org or 218-454-6142 for more information.
