December Newsletter

To support and strengthen increased educational outcomes for American Indian students by promoting culturally responsive instruction, family and student engagement and partnerships with MPS departments, schools and the broader community.

American Indian students are empowered to reach their full potential through educational experiences that value their cultural identities.

This is the MPS 2025-26 SCHOOL YEAR CALENDAR for you to keep up to date with days off, holidays and breaks for your student/s.

Please click the LINK to view lunch menus for your student/s. It is organized by Preschool, Elementary, Middle School and High School.

Are you or someone you know interested in volunteering at a MPS School?

Please click the LINK to get started!

ALL families with children enrolled in Minneapolis Public Schools should complete an Application for Educational Benefits each year. This used to be called the “Free and Reduced-price Lunch” form.

Complete the Application for Educational Benefits online

Applications completed by our families...

• Generate millions of dollars in funding for MPS and our schools, students and families.
• Determine benefits for students and families like free bus cards, scholarships, and fee waivers.

The income thresholds needed to qualify for educational benefits are often higher than similar state-sponsored programs and many families are surprised to find that they DO qualify for benefits. If you wish to decline benefits, please do so on the paper application or by emailing info.cws@mpls.k12.mn.us with your student's name(s).

A notification of eligibility letter will arrive via mail or email within 10 business days of completing your application.

Although Minneapolis Public Schools students receive free breakfast and lunch meals while at school, we want to provide some resources for families who may need food assistance outside of the school day.

Whether it’s after school, on school-release days or during the summer, kids 18 and under can visit participating community sites for no-cost healthy meals and snacks from Minneapolis Public Schools. Children do not need to attend MPS to participate.

• Community sites include Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board (MPRB) parks, Hennepin County Libraries and other local community sites.
• A list of sites is available on the MPS website.
• Contact the park or library directly for building hours, meal times and types (breakfast, snack, super power box, dinner).
• The Free Meals for Kids app can also help determine hours and meal types.
• Visit the MPRB website for their holiday schedule. Please note Thanksgiving holiday closures.
• Visit the City of Minneapolis Food Resources webpage for additional information.

From now through Tuesday, Dec. 2, MPS sophomores and juniors are invited to apply to serve as school board student representatives.

Two students — one representing schools on the north side and one representing schools on the south side of the district — will be selected to serve as ex officio members of the MPS School Board. This means they can actively participate in board discussions but do not vote on board matters.

Applications are due by Tuesday, Dec. 2, and interviews will be held on Monday, Dec. 15. Students can visit the Student Engagement webpage to learn more about this opportunity.

You can find the application here.

MPS will host a series of area community meetings to engage our community around budget and school transformation. Meetings will include a budget presentation from Finance Department followed by breakout sessions facilitated by staff.

Meeting Time

6:30 - 8 p.m.

Meeting Dates & Locations

Dec. 3 at North High School

Dec. 4 at Washburn High School

Dec. 5 at South High School

Dec. 10 at Roosevelt High School

Dec. 11 at Southwest High School

Dec. 16 at Edison High School

Jan. 14 at Camden High School

Jan. 15 at the Davis Center (all-staff only session)

For more information about school transformation please click HERE.

Are you interested in having your student come to MPS? If so, complete this school request form here: MPS School Application for the 2025-2026 School Year or apply in person! We are located at 1250 W. Broadway Ave. Minneapolis. MN. 55411.

Switching your student who is already in MPS to another school? If so, complete this transfer request form here: Intra district transfer procedure or come in person! We are located at 1250 W. Broadway Ave. Minneapolis. MN. 55411.

For any questions or concerns please contact Martha Swanson, Director, martha.swanson@mpls.k12.mn.us or call 612-668-1814 or Nagashia Jackson, Student Enrollment Support Specialist, Nagashia.Jackson@mpls.k12.mn.us or call 612-668-1837.

City Wide/Magnet Schools

Spanish Dual Language (PreK-12): Emerson Dual Language, Green Central Dual Language, Sheridan Dual Language, Andersen United Middle School (Dual Language Magnet within), Roosevelt Spanish Dual Immersion

STEM/STEAM (PreK-8): Hall STEM, Franklin STEAM Middle School, Sullivan STEM

Other citywide programs: Anishinabe Academy (American Indian MOA), Heritage Academy, Longfellow (pregnant and parenting teens), South All Nations, South Open, Wellstone International, Minneapolis Academy and Career Center (MACC)

Minneapolis Public Schools is supporting Anishinabe Academy’s mission of integrating and reclaiming American Indian identities, cultures, and languages through authentic academic experience by constructing a purpose-built school building.

This building will create a location to educate and empower urban Indigenous students through cultural revitalization. Following the recommendation of the Anishinabe Academy Facility Advisory Committee and the direction of the Board of Education, the Planning, Design, & Construction team is working on implementing the vision for a new facility.

The implementation process will include multiple phase gate approvals for the Board to consider before proceeding to the next phase of work. The phase gates are identified as: Project Charter Approval, Budget Approval, Construction Contract Award, & Project Closeout.

If you would like to learn more please visit the MPS Operations Project page HERE.

Design Contract Approval: September 9

Design: September 2025 - September 2026

Construction: September 2026 - August 2028

General Contractor: H + U Construction

Architect: Cuningham Group & Full Circle Indigenous Planning + Design

Completion: August 2028

If you'd like to receive updates about this project, please share your name and email by clicking HERE.

CLICK LINK OF QUESTIONS.

Please take 15 minutes or so to complete this feedback form: https://forms.gle/Yfsuy29rSNAY5zH8A.

All fully completed surveys will be put into a drawing for a chance to win a $50 gift card or star quilt blanket.

THURSDAY, December 18th, 2025

@ 5:30 - 7:00 PM (VIRTUAL)

Google Meet Log In: https://meet.google.com/tsq-cqxa-cgh

Dial In: +​1​ ​4​1​5​-​7​3​7​-​9​7​1​1 PIN: 7​9​7​ ​5​1​8​ ​5​1​0​#

These meetings are open to ALL students, families and community members to attend. We welcome all to come talk about how we can create better opportunities for our American Indian students within MPS. Please contact Christine Wilson, christine.wilson@mpls.k12.mn.us. If you have any questions, concerns, need assistance or would like to engage with other families OR for more information OR with any questions.

Transportation is available please click HERE.

AIPAC running agenda click HERE.

For more information about AIPAC please click HERE.

To sign up for the Family Language Camp on December 13th, please complete this RSVP form: https://forms.gle/9ypKgGoPC3NZ7GcK7

This year the American Indian Education Department created a calendar for the 2025-2026 school year. This calendar will reflect events that are going on within the department and the broader community. This calendar is updated daily. Please click the LINK for most recent information.

Indian Education currently has ten School Success Program Assistants located at Elementary Schools, Middle Schools and High Schools. They provide American Indian Affinity & Culture groups. If you would like to connect with any of the SSPA's please click the corresponding link for contact information and which school they are located:

To see a full list of site specific American Indian affinity groups click HERE

In Native group this month, the elementary students are deepening their knowledge of how to introduce themselves in Ojibwe and Dakota. They learned the words “indoonjibaa” (Ojibwe) and “ed wati” (Dakota) to say where their family is from. This was paired with them learning about the 11 tribes here in Minnesota. In the second half of the month, students are learning how to express their feelings through a “feelings cube” activity. They have been identifying how they feel paired with a color. It’s been awesome to see their language skills improving!

- Ms. Alyssa, Ms. Amanda, Ms. Alexis Ms. Simone, Ms.Ambersky, Ms. Ally and Mr. Gary

At Olson middle school we are focusing on building community and learning the Ojibwe language. We have recently gone on a field trip with Project Success to the Ordway theatre to watch Native Pride Productions. We had a great time watching world famous dancers and drummers perform on stage. After the performance we all got the chance to share a meal together back at Olson. During class time we learned about Jessie Little Doe Baird, featured in the book, Notable Native People. Jessie Little Doe Baird is a linguist known for her efforts to revive the Wampanoag (Wôpanâak) language. She is the co-founder of the Wôpanâak Language Reclamation Project. We talked about why language is so important and practiced words in Ojibwe. On alternating Wednesdays that we don’t have class, we can be found in the gym playing basketball!

- Ms. Simone, Ms.Ambersky, Mr. Gary, Ms. Alyssa, Ms. Amanda, Ms. Alexis, Ms. Ally, and Mr. Patrick

The high school team is helping students gear up for college application, scholarships, and career exploration. We've begun inviting the Career & College Centers into our groups for students to hear what their different opportunities are, next steps and timelines. In addition, this month our groups are focused on the Dakota value, WOWAČÍŊTAŊKA "Fortitude". Asking our students to reflect on the adversities they've faced and how it's shaped them to who they are today. Alongside these journal reflections we are beginning our wrapped quill work, making either a pair of earrings or bracelet. Students are learning the patient art of quill work!

- Ms. Madison, Mr. Justis and Mr. Kris

This December, our elected Youth Council members will be voting on positions, Chair, Vice Chair, Secretary, and Treasurer. The hope is to have these positions announced to our MPS community so they can begin their planning and advocacy for this 2025-2026 school year. More to come on their 2025-26 school year focuses.

SEAK: Special Education Advisory Committee

Parent Engagement Opportunity:

Join the MPS Special Education Advisory Council!

Next meeting is December 17th, In-person @ The Davis Center, 6-7:30pm. Dinner will be served. Transportation available.

Supporting Routines During Late Fall and Winter Breaks

As we move into late Fall and Winter, many students thrive when routines stay steady—even when school schedules don’t. Long weekends, family gatherings, and changes in daily structure can feel exciting but also overwhelming. Here are a few simple ways to support your students during this time:

Keep a Visual Schedule Handy

Even older students benefit from knowing what’s coming next. Try posting a simple schedule for days off, including meals, chores, playtime, and quiet breaks.

Preview Schedule Changes Early

Talking through the day ahead—or showing a picture schedule—can reduce anxiety. Phrases like “Tomorrow will look different…” or “First we’ll go to Auntie’s, then we’ll have lunch…” can help students feel prepared.

Build in Movement and Sensory Breaks

Whether it’s a walk, stretching, a silly dance, or quiet sensory time, short breaks can help students regulate their energy and emotions during busy days.

Protect Bedtime as Much as Possible

Consistent sleep is key, especially during breaks. If bedtime needs to shift, try adjusting gradually by 10–15 minutes at a time.

Keep Preferred Supports Nearby

Noise-canceling headphones, fidgets, comfort items, or communication supports can make social events more successful.

Ask Your Student’s Teacher for Academic Practice Ideas

Breaks are a great time to reinforce skills without overwhelming students. Consider reaching out to your student’s teacher for:

- Short practice activities tailored to current IEP goals

- Suggested apps, websites, or reading materials

- Quick daily routines to support math, literacy, or communication skills

- Ideas for embedding learning into everyday family activities

- Teachers or case managers can help you identify simple, meaningful practice that keeps skills fresh while still allowing your student to enjoy the break.

Maintaining a bit of structure—both routine and learning—helps students feel safe, confident, and ready to enjoy the break. Even small supports can make a big difference!

General Reminders:

• Indian Education Cultural Liaisons at each school site should be invited to special education meetings to support families and students. If a cultural liaison is not invited to a meeting and you would like them to attend, please reach out to your student's case manager, or the cultural liaison directly.

• If you have concerns about your student's special education service this Fall, please do not hesitate to reach out to your student's case manager about the concerns or to ask for an IEP meeting to be scheduled.

- Aquila Tapio

District Program Facilitator, Special Education/Dream Catcher Project

For any enrollment questions or support please contact the following people:

Martha Swanson, Director

martha.swanson@mpls.k12.mn.us or call 612-668-1814

Nagashia Jackson, Student Enrollment Support Specialist

Nagashia.Jackson@mpls.k12.mn.us or call 612-668-1837

Melody Iron Eaglefeather

melody.ironeaglefeather@mpls.k12.mn.us

Han Han mitakupaye,

My name is Melody Iron EagleFeather and I'm an enrolled member of Standing Rock Tribe. I was born and raised in Minneapolis. I grew up going to Minneapolis Public Schools and have always wanted to contribute to my community in some way. I work as an Associate Educator in the Early Childhood and Family Education program. I invite all my Native relatives to join me and my amazing colleague, Teacher Priya, Thursday nights for our Families of Tradition class where we share a hot meal and discuss important topics regarding raising our children and their development. We also have fun activities for the children, including gym time.

I look forward to continuing my work for Minneapolis Public Schools and plan on getting my license soon.

Aliya Sullivan

Engagement, Education & Outreach Specialist

aliya.sullivan@mpls.k12.mn.us

Questions, concerns, or looking to connect with District staff but unsure where to start? Aliya Sullivan is a resource within the District to provide navigation and district wide engagement support for American Indian families!

Mitchell Roldan

Director of the Ombudsperson

mitchell.roldan@mpls.k12.mn.us

612-668-0234

An ombudsperson is someone who listens to and investigates complaints or concerns about an organization. The Office of the Ombudsperson can assist families who have questions, concerns or complaints against MPS schools, programs, offices, and staff. The Ombudsperson is a neutral party who does not take sides.

They work with families, community members, and MPS to investigate complaints, clarify and resolve questions, and address concerns in an impartial and timely manner. The services of the Ombudsperson are free. The Ombudsperson is an objective third-party whose goal is to work with people who have a problem with MPS to find a solution.

Please click HERE if you would like to submit a concern.

Patrick Engrav

Program Coordinator K-8 Districtwide

Bois Forte Band of Chippewa

patrick.engrav@mpls.k12.mn.us or 612 354-6211

Boozhoo indinawemaaganidog. I have worked for Minneapolis Public Schools for 10 years. Currently, I live in Minneapolis with my wife and two children and enjoy spending time in the community doing activities, and coaching youth sports (football,Basketball). I am excited to expand my role with the department of Indian Education and will continue my dedication to ensuring our Native students across the district are supported, both academically and socially/emotionally.

Christine Wilson

Family Engagement Coordinator

White Earth Nation

christine.wilson@mpls.k12.mn.us

Want to learn more about how to get engaged with the Indian Education Department? Christine Wilson is an expert in the district wide support services in Indian Education. She is a key lead for several initiatives including the American Indian Parent Advisory Committee (AIPAC), American Indian Awareness & Family Involvement Week and the Attendance work group.

Aquila Tapio

District Program Facilitator (Focus on Special Education supports)

Oglala Lakota

aquila.tapio@mpls.k12.mn.us or call/text 612-668-0613

District Program Facilitator (DPF) focusing on Special Education and MDE’s Dream Catcher Project. Since 2012, she has been at South High School as a Reading Intervention Teacher and Special Education Resource Teacher. Aquila graduated from the University of Minnesota in 1999 and went on to earn her special education teaching licenses and Master’s Degree in Education from Augsburg University. She and her husband have three children and live in South Minneapolis. Aquila enjoys creating beadwork, quillwork, and dentalium earrings, as well as, sewing ribbon skirts and star quilts.

If you or someone you may know have a interest in sharing a opportunity on this section please email Aliya Sullivan at aliya.sullivan@mpls.k12.mn.us.

Federal agencies are moving several Native education programs out of the Department of Education and into new homes within the Department of the Interior and the Department of Labor. As these changes take shape, clear information is essential for students, families, Tribal Nations, and educators.

To help our community understand what’s shifting, NIEA has created a factsheet, FAQ, and a readable chart explaining what we know so far. You can access all resources here: https://www.niea.org/native-ed-transfers

We will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.

Today marks the 50th anniversary of the passing of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), which established the right of children with disabilities to a free appropriate public education (FAPE). IDEA has changed the education and quality of life for countless children with disabilities. PACER is here to help families access this important right for their child and receive the resources and support they need to help them thrive.

Are you a Minnesota parent seeking support to navigate school and other systems for your child with a disability? Call (952) 838-9000 or fill out our contact form to connect with a PACER advocate at pacer.org

Apply here.

Join us for our 2nd benefit market! Last year we welcomed over 900 attendees, and we’re excited to grow even more this year. Vendor applications are due December 3, 2025. If you need to load in early on Friday, just let us know. We also kindly ask for a small gift or artwork donation for our two-day community raffle. All event profits support Native art in the American Indian Cultural Corridor.

We look forward to hosting another successful Native market with you!

You can find the application HERE.

It’s Christmas in the Everglades again as NNT begins a new winter tradition by remounting its wildly successful comedy, A Christmas in Ochopee by Montana Cypress.

December 3rd to 21st, 2025; Wed to Sat @ 7pm AND Sundays at 2pm. As always, all tickets are pay-what-you-can!

About the play:

With fry bread, family feuds, and a memorable gator that may or may not hold the spirit of a beloved rez dog, the Weetley family navigates love, and loud uncles under one roof. Full of sharp Native humor, culture, and heart, Cypress brings us a holiday play that speaks to the beauty and chaos of rez life. It’s a Florida Christmas—expect miracles, mess, and maybe a chainsaw or two.

“I can’t remember a time when I’ve giggled so much through a play as I did last weekend seeing New Native Theatre’s holiday production, A Christmas in Ochopee.”

— MinnPost

Join us at the Science Museum of Minnesota for Science is All of Us!

Science is everyone — it is better when it is created, discovered, and ideated by all. Project Success invites your student and family to the Science Museum of Minnesota to celebrate diversity and creativity in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM).

The Science Museum’s Celebration Days encourage everyone to honor the wide range of perspectives that make us better innovators, problem-solvers, and changemakers.

Discover the impactful careers and contributions of diverse STEM professionals in healthcare, technology, and more, with on-site demonstrations and presentations from local scientific organizations. Your ticket also allows your family to explore all the current exhibits at the museum.

REGISTER NOW FOR YOUR FREE TICKETS!

Please click HERE for direct link to webpage.

Need holiday gifts? Come uplift Indigenous artists, makers, and culture bearers at the Two Rivers Gallery’s 2nd annual From Heart to Hands Benefit Arts & Crafts Market on Saturday, Dec. 6, and Sunday, Dec. 7.

There will be handmade art, beadwork, prints, jewelry, textiles, food, and more.

Minneapolis American Indian Center Gym

Saturday, December 6 & Sunday, December 7

10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Entry is $2 or a nonperishable food item.

Minnesota Department of Education to Gather Input from American Indian Educators, Parents, Students​

MINNEAPOLIS — The Minnesota Department of Education will hold an American Indian Education Field Hearing from 3:30-5 p.m. Dec. 8 at Cedar Lakes Casino Hotel, 6268 Upper Cass Frontage Road NW, Cass Lake.

The field hearing is an opportunity for Commissioner Willie Jett and agency staff to gather input from American Indian educators, parents, and students on the state of American Indian Education in Minnesota.

Attendees will have the opportunity to speak during the hearing and individuals can also join the hearing remotely via Zoom. Submit written comments to mde.input-indian-education@state.mn.us. The agency will develop a report from the field hearing for the 11 Tribal Nations for review and comment.

A time to celebrate the power of reading together and to support families in building strong literacy habits at home.

Encourage families in your school community to explore the Families READ Toolkit, which offers practical tips, activities, and resources to make reading a joyful part of everyday life.

Families can also take advantage of their local libraries, which offer free access to books, story times, and literacy programs for all ages. Visit Minnesota Department of Education’s (MDE) Libraires webpage to find a public library near you or to explore resources available to all Minnesotans through libraries.

Let’s work together to make reading a shared adventure this month and all year long!

We’re excited to announce the return of our Indigenous Mind-Body Gathering in 2026 at the Mystic Lake Center!

This year, in collaboration with the Oyate Golf Club/ Kyle Hill, we’re introducing our 1st Annual Golf Scramble Tournament ⛳️

Come be part of this powerful and beautiful weekend of movement, wellness, and connection.

Tickets for the gathering and tournament are available now at indigenouslotus.com

Registration begins January 31st, 2026.

🎙Featuring Deanna StandingCloud as our event host.

✨️ Many thanks to our committee and community members!!

Shelly Marie Belgarde

Serene Thin Elk

Rafael Gonzalez

Warlance Miner

Isabella Cloud