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Board hears annual American Indian Education compliance report and programming highlights
Summary
APAC representatives summarized state-funded programming for American Indian students, including field trips, Ojibwe language pilots and a new program assistant to support workshops and classroom lessons; the board asked how it can better support students and was asked to continue listening and funding the targeted grant program.
The Mankato Public School District board received its annual American Indian Education compliance report on Feb. 2 from the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee and student support staff.
Josita Sutter, student support coordinator, said the committee aligns programming to five state grant goal areas: postsecondary preparation, academic achievement, culturally relevant curriculum, positive reinforcement of self-image and intercultural awareness. Committee members described this year—s highlights: a Kasota Prairie field trip, plans for a spring field trip, a pilot to learn Ojibwe using Rosetta Stone self-paced lessons and hiring a program assistant to run workshops, clubs and classroom lessons.
"Each year, we receive state aid grant funds that help us to grow our programming," Sutter said, noting the grant formula ties to a reported count of about 130 American Indian students K—12. Board members asked what the board could do to better serve American Indian students; Sutter urged continued support and listening to the committee as the bridge to parents and staff.
A student representative and other attendees suggested promoting APAC broadly so families know there are programs and funds available and to encourage participation. Superintendent Peterson praised the committee—s work and encouraged staff to continue building partnerships and acting on community feedback.
Board members did not take formal action on the report; the committee requested continued board support and outreach to increase program visibility and participation.
