IMPACT STORY
Prairie Public & Legacy Funding Create Indigenous Educational Resources
In response to Minnesota’s American Indian Legislation of 2023 and the “Indigenous Education for All” statute, which requires that all Minnesota students learn about the histories, languages, cultures, governments, and experiences of their American Indian peers and neighbors, Prairie Public is committed to helping educators access high-quality, local Indigenous resources. PBS LearningMedia educational support materials were developed for two Prairie Mosaic features on Native artists. “Cultural Expectations in Art” showcases Kent Estey from the White Earth Nation of Ojibwe, whose vibrant acrylic paintings, inspired by the natural beauty of Northern Minnesota, capture the essence of his heritage. In “Birch Bark Art.” Pat Kruse, a gifted birchbark and quill artist from the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe, creates stunning pieces: baskets, images, and even cradles infused with cultural significance and artistry. These resources are part of a broader collection we’ve curated, featuring over 25 Indigenous materials created by MPTA stations and other Legacy-funded organizations such as the Minnesota Historical Society and MNopedia. We presented this curated collection to teachers across our Northwest Minnesota region during school visits as well as to public and school librarians at the Northern Lights Library Conference. Additionally, we showcased these resources in two episodes of our Prairie Vistas webinar series: “Indigenous Education Resources” and “Minnesota’s Legacy,” ensuring that they reach a wider audience. Through these efforts, we are providing much-needed educational materials that foster a deeper understanding and appreciation of Indigenous cultures, helping to build connections between students and their communities, and paving the way for a more inclusive and culturally rich educational landscape in Minnesota.
“I appreciated the list of Indigenous resources from the workshop! These have been difficult to find, and I can’t wait to share them with my staff.” – School Librarian from Northern Lights Library Network
93
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator