Soon-to-be graduates recognized for their academic achievements at area high schools
Nineteen American Indian high school students will graduate from Elk River, Rogers and Zimmerman high schools in the coming week.
They were recognized for their accomplishments at an annual honoring ceremony hosted by the Elk River Area School District’s American Indian Education Department on May 10 at Hassan Elementary School in Rogers.
Among those in attendance were Superintendent Mark Bezek, School Board Member Jaime Plantenberg-Selbitschka, District 728 Director of Special Education and American Indian Education program coordinator Debra Blair.
The K-12 American Indian Education program provides support to students who have American Indian heritage.
Sgt. 1st Class Lowell Laudert of the Minnesota National Guard was the featured speaker at this year’s event. He was joined in the program by the Minnesota National Guard Color Guard and Rita Aspinwall, a 2009 Elk River High School graduate, who was also a speaker.
There was also a presentation by Native poet and actor Thomas LaBlanc.
Navajo Yellowhouse Hoop and Grass Dancers performed as well.
Sadie Beachman, a first-grade student at Twin Lakes Elementary School, led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Ryan and Branden Stigen and Richie Bray also led a presentation.
The event was co-coordinated by Grant Hendrickson and Sandi Hanlen-Pool of the American Indian Education program.
The K-12 program provides academic advising, Ojibwe and Dakota language and culture and assistance with preparation for college and vocational training. It also offers enrichment opportunities and field trips.
