On Monday, March 31, 2025, President Barry Dunn visited the Norris Elementary. The visit was in support of the partnership between Norris Elementary and South Dakota State University's College of Education and Human Sciences as university students begin their 4-day rural practicum. Below is an overview of the whole partnership and experience.
SDSU’s Teacher Education Majors have limited exposure to working with K-12 Indigenous students, as such, they have limited understanding of Oceti Sakowin's history and culturally responsive teaching. South Dakota is experiencing a teacher shortage and the need for teachers is even more pronounced on SD’s reservations. This project aims to enhance the cultural competency of SDSU’s Teacher Education Faculty and Teacher Education Majors by establishing a meaningful partnership with Norris Elementary in Norris, SD. Initiatives will be led by a Wokini Scholar and Early Childhood Education Major who will serve as an ambassador for developing culturally-competent teachers. The project will kick off in Fall 2024 with an Oceti Sakowin Symposium, and a performance by the Black Pipe Singers (K-5 students from Norris). Next, SDSU Teacher Education Faculty will participate in a 2-day fieldtrip to Norris School, including visits with Rosebud Tribal Leaders, Elders, and community members. Elementary/Early Childhood Education Majors will then be invited to apply for a 4-day rural practicum at Norris School during Spring 2025. Prior to the rural practicum, successful applicants will attend an event at the SDSU American Indian Center to be introduced to Oceti Sakowin history and culture. After the rural practicum, participants will present their learning experiences at a Collegewide symposium; this will serve to recruit future participants for the rural practicum. Anticipated project outcomes include cultivating relationships between SDSU’s College of Education and tribal communities, enhancing understanding of Oceti Sakowin history and culture, and recruiting young Native American students to SDSU.