For many families in the Anchorage School District, connecting with their indigenous culture can be challenging, especially for those who have moved to the city from remote villages across the state. Anchorage School District’s Atauchikun Alaska STRONG Program, run by the Indigenous Education Department in partnership with AASB, helps connect families with AK Native cultural activities, building local community and supporting cultural and family strengths. The program provides parenting education and case management support and builds connections between parents and school staff through regular program workshops with a cohort of families. Workshop activities include dance lessons, drum-making, kuspuk-making, fishing, berry picking, local plant teachings, and salve-making. Atauchikun also incorporates cultural education opportunities for families through the Alaska SeaLife Center, the Anchorage Museum, the Alaska Native Heritage Center, The Alaska Botanical Garden, and the Reindeer Farm.
Families say that the opportunity to connect regularly with school staff in a positive, supportive environment helps them to build deeper relationships and create a sense of trust and understanding with their child’s school.
To find out how you can bring a curriculum like this to your school, contact Claudia Plesa