Virtual: Introduction to Indigenous Culture and History: Implementing Indigenous Culture in the Classroom 

For Educators in Grades 3-12

Native American history and culture is foundational to understanding the United States, both its history and the present day. Yet many teachers feel unequipped or a lack of confidence when teaching about Native Americans. In this training, teachers will learn how to integrate Native perspectives into the larger narrative of American history, from Abraham Lincoln to the history of regalia. Participants will be given tools such as the proper terminology to use and appropriate activities and lesson plans to effectively teach this history in their classroom.  

This training supports the expected 2024-25 Illinois state mandate on teaching Native American history. Presented in partnership with the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian.

Guest Speaker: Maria Garcia-DesJarlait (Arikara, Ojibwe) – Mitchell Museum of the American Indian 
Maria brings her experiences growing up on her reservation and as a teacher to tell engaging and captivating stories that share important messages of empathy. Her writing gives the reader a better understanding of not just Maria’s upbringing but helps to build a bridge for any reader of any age to appreciate Indigenous cultures. 

Workshop Includes:

• Classroom Resources
• 1.5 Clock Hours/CPDUs