Our students need strong community partnerships from adults in order to connect their own learning with their lives in the community. This is especially true in our state’s indigenous communities where there are historical disconnections between the school and community. The Kaehkēnawapahtāēq Charter School in the Menominee Indian School District is a standout example of intentional partnership. The College of Menominee Nation, the Menominee Indian School District, and the local early childhood center joined around a common mission to blend immersion of their native Menominee language with Montessori education to create a truly unique and intentional school option for their students. Learn all about their journey, challenges, and successes from their co-founder and board co-chair, Shannon Chapman (Menominee Tribal Education Director). Learn strategies around how to specifically consider school design rooted in indigenous culture, and reflect on how their work translated into your own community.
