I was introduced to Native American Culture at Geyserville Elementary. I (not being Native - except for some family rumors about my great grandparents) was taught to revere and understand, the best I could, the Native culture and community by my teachers, friends, and parents. I have always had a deep respect for the Pomo, Miwok, and other tribes and their respective history - although I am still grossly undereducated in many ways. I have compassion, curiosity, and love for the culture that is not mine - and a sense of duty to support and listen to those who are not like me; from whom I learned about the spiritual locations that are now, sadly, home to shopping centers, wineries, and houses.
I remember being introduced to the art, skills, and stories about Native American culture. I was fascinated with the knowledge and wisdom about plants and animals. I grew up in a neighborhood in West Santa Rosa that was home to many Native families. These interactions have totally shaped me as a person. As I grew, I started to appreciate all of the lessons not found in western medicine or textbooks. I felt honored to have even a little introduction into a world that I knew others would never experience. The experiences have directly influenced my career path as an adult here in Ukiah, and simply put - thank you! I urge our future generation of youth to become educators. Being a leader in our world is so important.
I have learned so much as a principal. Big Picture Ukiah @ South Valley High is home to many Native students, and I have had the opportunity to work with and learn from so many amazing people who embrace the culture. Despite unbelievable obstacles, the kids and Tribal Elders that have worked with me have led our school to move forward in a way that honors the local history and culture. I could not have done this without the support for our school from people like Darletta Fulwider, William Feather, Julian Maldonado, Gabe Ray, Corine Pearce, Rose Hammock, Buffy Schmidt, Rose Ford, Emma Rose, Buffy Wright, Bonnie Lockhart, Martin Martinez, Angela James, Lenora Steele, and many others.
I am eager to learn more to help decolonize our school. To celebrate our Native students by making our school more representative of their culture is our top priority.
Currently, our students are working with teachers and elders to design murals for our school that celebrates the native culture. We are also excited to work with the community to build a garden filled with nearly 100% native plant species.
We are looking for help on both projects and would love input from the community. The Native Student Alliance (NSA) has been a part of our program for roughly four years. It is a student-led group that works with the local Native community to teach and learn about the culture. Students learn and practice beading, indigenous food, basket weaving, plants (cultivating, identifying, and harvesting), indigenous medicine, and even internships. I am so proud of our kids - we invite you to come to see and help with our program.
If you would like to help or become a mentor for our students, contact me at [email protected] or call 707-472-5150.