Native Heritage

MAT-SU — About 12 percent of Mat-Su Borough School District students are Alaska Native, which is one reason why the district encourages schools to include Alaska Native history and issues as part of their Alaska Studies curriculum.

“Because we’re in Alaska and we have a large Native population, our (education) is more deep and more widely observed,” said Catherine Esary, public information officer for the school district.

November is National Native American Heritage Month and Alaska Native Heritage Month, which is why district schools have spent the month focusing on Alaska Native education and events with the theme “Share the Spirit,” she said.

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates the proportion of Alaska’s population identified as American Indian and Alaska Native in 2009 was the highest of any state at 18 percent of the total state population.

Locally, the Federal Programs Department of the MSBSD provides resources for students, families and schools through its Indian Education Program, Native Youth Olympics program and Dzuuggi Preschool program. There is an extensive collection of books and artifacts on Native American history and culture. Some of the presentations and events at Valley schools to mark Alaska Native Heritage Month include:

• Alaska Native and American Indian dancing and drumming.

• Alaska Native and American Indian traditions, history and culture.

• Native Youth Olympics (NYO).

• Hands-on arts and crafts-including dance fans, beading and carving.

• Alaska Native and American Indian legends and storytelling.

• Cultural events, including traditional foods.