Renberg Elementary to Create Native American Heritage Outdoor Education Space

The Sioux Falls School District and the National Park Service have announced an exciting new collaboration that will bring a Native American Heritage Outdoor Education Space to Renner, South Dakota. The project, known as the South Dakota Native American Heritage Outdoor Education Space, will be located at Renberg Elementary School and will provide students with a unique outdoor learning experience.

Superintendent Jane Stavem described the space as an “outdoor classroom” where students can learn about Native American plants, heritage, history, and more. The project will be developed with the assistance of the National Park Service’s Rivers, Trails, and Conservation Assistance program, which will provide professional and technical support over the next year.

David Thomson, the Regional Program Manager for the RTCA program, expressed excitement about the project’s vision and the opportunity to work with the Sioux Falls School District. Christopher Whirlwind Soldier, an Ancestral Lands Fellow for the RTCA program, highlighted the importance of incorporating indigenous perspectives and languages into the project.

Superintendent Stavem emphasized that the Native American Heritage Outdoor Education Space will align with existing Native American education standards in South Dakota. The project is still in the early planning stages, and a timeline will be established as more partners join the process.

Overall, the collaboration between the Sioux Falls School District and the National Park Service promises to provide students with a valuable outdoor learning experience that celebrates Native American heritage and culture. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project.