Native American Heritage Month at Taos Day School

November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate and honor the rich cultures, traditions and contributions of Indigenous Nations and people across the United States.

Taos Day School serves students from several Tribes in the surrounding area. The staff takes pride in offering its students a rich experience throughout the month so they can share what being a Tribal citizen means to them and express their individuality as Indigenous youth.

“Native American Heritage Month is important for our students because it allows them the opportunity to see their culture glorified throughout the country,” said Claireen Espinoza, a teacher with Taos Day School for more than 25 years. “It allows the unique opportunity to explore other Tribal Nations and make connections to others and re-connect to their own heritage.”

Taos Day School plans exciting activities and educational opportunities to celebrate the area’s Tribal history and heritage during Native American Heritage Month.

Staff encouraged students to participate in Rock Your Mocs Day on Nov. 15 and wear their favorite moccasins to school. This year, the middle schoolers are researching Native Americans known for their work in film, music, art, athletics, literature, politics, science or medicine and giving presentations.

The students are also taking a business course and visiting local, Native-owned businesses to learn about Indigenous entrepreneurs and interview business owners about their struggles and successes. The school’s staff and guest presenters are teaching cultural skills like drawing, breading and weaving.

Part of the Bureau of Indian Education’s mission is to provide culturally relevant curriculum to students, which means highlighting and recognizing Native identity and its importance in an educational environment. That curriculum is taught year-round at Taos Day School – not just one month in the fall.

“A school should embed a year-round approach to Native Americans in their school curriculum, so that students realize they are a part of a global network of individuals who contribute to all aspects of society,” Espinoza said.

During this academic year, Taos Day School students complete research projects about prominent Native Americans and historical figures; worked on independent studies that align with their culture and their interests; and taken Native language and culture classes. They have learned songs and dances; used their culture to improve their community; and become more familiar with their surroundings.

The school regularly hosts guest speakers as well as a monthly Native Culture Family Night where the community gathers to bead and sew together; sing and dance; share knowledge; play games; and enjoy a meal.

The staff aims to inspire their students to work hard and become leaders in their Tribes and communities. They hope focusing on culturally relevant curriculum helps the students carry pride for their heritage and valuable life lessons with them wherever they go in the future.