District outlines American Indian Cultural Resource Center and language revitalization plans

District staff presented the proposed American Indian Cultural Resource Center and related heritage learning model as a core anchor for the Crestview repurposed site, saying the center would support language revitalization, cultural programming and teacher professional development. A presenter summarized outreach to the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee and survey work: "It was amazing to see that 83.3 of our parents were, significantly or very interested in the proposed heritage learning model," the staff member said.

The presentation outlined specific programming ideas: Ojibwe and Dakota language offerings (including for-credit high school courses), intergenerational culture camps, traditional arts and storytelling, a curated library of more than 2,000 vetted texts, a medicine garden and a supplemental kitchen for traditional foods. Staff said these components are intended to serve both American Indian students and other students who participate in the cultural immersion learning model. The presenter also noted a recent state change referenced in the discussion: a statute was cited that advanced Indian education efforts in another state as background for similar programming, but staff framed the local proposal around district goals and community input.

Board members responded with encouragement and asked that design and programming honor multiuse community access so the center can engage a broad constituency. Staff said grant outcomes (a maintenance‑planning grant is pending) will inform next steps and timeline for anchor programming.