Melissa Wakeley was awarded a $2500 grant from the Jordan Fundamentals Grant Program, a division of the Nike Foundation.  The money has been used for funding programs and resources to further the study of Native Americans  and the surrounding tribes for Lyons-Decatur Northeast Elementary students.  This grant has enhanced Melissa's secound year of this three year history project, Westward Waters.

Students from the Northeast Elementary attended the UMOnHo Tribe Harvest Celebration in Macy.  This is the oldest documented Celebration in North America and this was the 200th anniversary celebration.  Students experienced traditions and dancing during the Harvest Celebration and were given an opportunity to come out and dance.  Governer Mike Johanns and State Senator Matt Connealy were part of the celebration that added an extra treat for the students.

On November 19th, the lower elementary had a chance to participate in an excellent hands-on traveling classroom program.  Dale Clark and Renee Hunt from Grand Island were here to share information about Native American life as it was many years ago.  For a few hours, the students became little Indian children as they enjoyed listening and interacting with the speakers.

On December 7th, Charles New Holy, a Native American artist from Walthill, instructed students in a watercolor painting activity.

Please click on the following link for more pictures:  Native American Studies