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Student Stories
Every gift you make writes a new chapter in a child’s life.
The children of St. Joseph’s Indian School come from communities that have faced generations of hardship, yet every day on our campus, we witness resilience, joy and an unquenchable spirit. Our student stories capture real moments: a child conquering fear in the classroom, a young dancer finding pride in their heritage, an alumnus returning to give back. These are the stories your support makes possible.
Makaia Makes History as Homecoming Queen
Queen Makaia and Native American Studies teacher LaRayne smile for a photo during Chamberlain’s Homecoming parade. To some, it might just be a crown. To the St. Joseph’s Indian School community, it’s a place in school …
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Introducing the 2026 Powwow Royalty of St. Joseph’s Indian School
Introducing the 2026 Powwow Royalty of St. Joseph’s Indian School The drums hadn’t even started yet, but the Rec Center was already buzzing. It was the kind of excited, can’t‑sit‑still energy that only happens when students …
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Embracing Life at St. Joseph’s: Zukai’s Story
Embracing Life at St. Joseph’s: Zukai’s Story Even as a new student, Zukai proudly danced and sang at St. Joseph’s 49th Annual Powwow. Spend just a few minutes with seventh grader Zukai, and it might be …
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St. Joseph’s Students Explore Faith and Future at Notre Dame
Some moments help students see a wider horizon than they knew existed. For four St. Joseph’s Indian School middle schoolers, stepping onto the University of Notre Dame campus became one of those moments — a chance …
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Senior Suitcase: St. Joseph’s Graduates Shop for the Future
“I am in line to check out everything for my future right now,” Delante said as he looked down at a shopping cart piled high with essentials for adulthood.
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Students Explore Faith, Service and Discovery at Summer Institute
Some journeys shape students long before they return home. For four St. Joseph’s Indian School students, a week in Milwaukee, Wisc., became more than a trip. It became a chance to see themselves as part of …
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Stepping Up: St. Joseph’s Indian School Student Finds His Voice as a Leader
One evening at the Rec Center, Bryan, St. Joseph’s Indian School’s Athletic Director, found himself short a basketball referee. The game was about to begin, and he needed someone dependable who could step in quickly. Kansas, …
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St. Joseph’s Graduate Earns $10,000 Scholarship
Meet Mersayis, an extraordinary young woman whose resilience, compassion and dedication have earned her the prestigious Dr. Henry C. Mueller Scholarship, awarding her $10,000 toward her dreams of becoming a nurse. Growing up in the foster …
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St. Joseph’s Student Shoots for the Stars … Literally
At St. Joseph’s Indian School, every student has a story. Some stories are rooted in athletics, others in overcoming challenges, and some, like Marybella’s, are destined for the stars. Marybella, a bright and determined high school …
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Mario
Mario is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Mario’s favorite school memory is when they went to Pierre to tour the Capitol because it was fun being together with his class. His favorite memory from …
Mario
Mario is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Mario’s favorite school memory is when they went to Pierre to tour the Capitol because it was fun being together with his class. His favorite memory from time in his home was when they went shopping at the mall during a trip to Sioux Falls. After 8th grade graduation, Mario plans to come back to St. Joe’s and graduate from high school. When he does this, he will have gone to school from 1st-12th grade and be dubbed a “lifer” as we endearingly call them! When he grows up he wants to be a mechanical engineer!
Jalonna
Jalonna is a member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. Jalonna’s favorite school memory is the Cultural Trip because her class went to cultural places she had learned about. Her favorite memories in her home are …
Jalonna
Jalonna is a member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. Jalonna’s favorite school memory is the Cultural Trip because her class went to cultural places she had learned about. Her favorite memories in her home are all the home trips they took throughout the years. After 8th grade graduation, Jalonna wants to get a summer job and go to high school in Chamberlain. Jalonna wants to be a homicide detective when she grows up!
Taylen
Taylen is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. Taylen’s favorite memory of school is the Staff vs. Students basketball game. He said it was fun to play against older people! His favorite memory in the …
Taylen
Taylen is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. Taylen’s favorite memory of school is the Staff vs. Students basketball game. He said it was fun to play against older people! His favorite memory in the home was laughing with the boys and houseparents. After 8th grade graduation, Taylen plans to go to high school and go to college. When he grows up, Taylen would like to be a basketball player or basketball coach!
Makaia
MaKaia is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band. MaKaia’s favorite school memory is the 7th grade Cultural Trip because they explored and learned new things! Her favorite memories in the home are playing hide and …
Makaia
MaKaia is a member of the Turtle Mountain Band. MaKaia’s favorite school memory is the 7th grade Cultural Trip because they explored and learned new things! Her favorite memories in the home are playing hide and seek and socializing! MaKaia plans to be in the St. Joe’s high school program after 8th grade graduation. She wants to be a physical therapist when she grows up!
Memphis
Memphis is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. Memphis’ favorite school memory is meeting new friends and meeting with his counselor. His favorite memories are going fishing with his houseparents, the 7th grade Cultural Trip, …
Memphis
Memphis is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. Memphis’ favorite school memory is meeting new friends and meeting with his counselor. His favorite memories are going fishing with his houseparents, the 7th grade Cultural Trip, going to Bear Butte, and participating in sweats (inípi) with Scott, a St. Joe’s counselor. After 8th grade graduation, Memphis plans to go to high school in Chamberlain. He is still exploring his options for what he wants to be when he grows up.
Kaedyn
Kaedyn is a member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. Kaedyn’s favorite school memory is the buffalo harvest because he liked the view of all the buffalo. His favorite memory in his home was hanging out …
Kaedyn
Kaedyn is a member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. Kaedyn’s favorite school memory is the buffalo harvest because he liked the view of all the buffalo. His favorite memory in his home was hanging out with brothers. Kaedyn plans on going home and finishing high school after 8th grade graduation. When he grows up, Kaedyn wants to be an artist!
Amelia
Amelia is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Amelia’s favorite school memories include a fun game of tag and the 7th grade Cultural Trip because she learned about her culture with friends! Her favorite memory …
Amelia
Amelia is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Amelia’s favorite school memories include a fun game of tag and the 7th grade Cultural Trip because she learned about her culture with friends! Her favorite memory in her home was playing hide-and-seek with other homes. Amelia plans to stay at St. Joe’s through high school and graduate. When she grows up, Amelia wants to work with kids!
Jack
Jack is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Jack’s favorite school memory is enjoying time outside of the classroom with friends. His favorite home memory is staying up all night with everyone. After 8th grade …
Jack
Jack is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Jack’s favorite school memory is enjoying time outside of the classroom with friends. His favorite home memory is staying up all night with everyone. After 8th grade graduation, Jack plans to attend high school but is still deciding where he wants to attend. When he grows up, Jack wants to go into the military!
Paul
Paul is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Paul’s favorite school memory is the 7th grade Cultural Trip. While at Bear Butte, a cloud came to the class while they were singing. His favorite memories …
Paul
Paul is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Paul’s favorite school memory is the 7th grade Cultural Trip. While at Bear Butte, a cloud came to the class while they were singing. His favorite memories in his home were the water balloon fights! Paul plans to go to Chamberlain High School after 8th grade graduation. When he grows up, Paul wants to go into the military!
Demarius
Demarius is a member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. Demarius’ favorite school memory is the Cultural Trip because the cabin was big! He also liked going out of state. His favorite memory in the home …
Demarius
Demarius is a member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. Demarius’ favorite school memory is the Cultural Trip because the cabin was big! He also liked going out of state. His favorite memory in the home is when all the homes played hide and seek. Demarius plans on going to high school and getting a job after 8th grade graduation. When he grows up, he wants to be a pilot!
Oyate
Oyate is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Oyate’s favorite school memories are having fun and learning. His favorite memories in the home are the trips to Sioux Falls, especially eating out and going to …
Oyate
Oyate is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Oyate’s favorite school memories are having fun and learning. His favorite memories in the home are the trips to Sioux Falls, especially eating out and going to AirMadness with his friends. After 8th grade graduation, Oyate plans to have a fun summer and then, this fall, be a part of the St. Joe’s high school program to attend Chamberlain High School. When he grows up, he wants to play sports!
Emilia
Emilia is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Emilia’s favorite school memories are the cultural trip and being with friends. Her favorite memory in the home is the home trip to Rapid City, SD. After …
Emilia
Emilia is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Emilia’s favorite school memories are the cultural trip and being with friends. Her favorite memory in the home is the home trip to Rapid City, SD. After 8th grade graduation, Emilia plans on finishing high school but she is still deciding where she will attend. When Emilia grows up, she wants to be self-employed and make her own ribbon skirts and do her own beadwork!
Secret
Secret is a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Secret’s favorite school memory is the Cultural Trip because she got to learn more about her culture. Her favorite home memories include when they would have …
Secret
Secret is a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Secret’s favorite school memory is the Cultural Trip because she got to learn more about her culture. Her favorite home memories include when they would have water fights, and also when they would stay up and watch movies outside. After 8th grade graduation, Secret plans to graduate high school. When Secret grows up she plans on saving up money to get an apartment of her own and get a job. Secret wants to be a doctor and have a profession!
Gabriel
Gabriel is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. Gabe’s favorite school memory is the Students vs. Staff basketball game. His favorite memory in the home is playing basketball with his home. After 8th grade graduation, …
Gabriel
Gabriel is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. Gabe’s favorite school memory is the Students vs. Staff basketball game. His favorite memory in the home is playing basketball with his home. After 8th grade graduation, Gabe wants to attend high school at Chamberlain and work harder in basketball. When he grows up, Gabe wants to play for the NBA!
Consuelo
Consuelo is a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Consuelo’s favorite memory in school is the buffalo hunt because she saw the process and all the stuff you can get from harvesting a buffalo. Her …
Consuelo
Consuelo is a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Consuelo’s favorite memory in school is the buffalo hunt because she saw the process and all the stuff you can get from harvesting a buffalo. Her favorite home memory was playing hide and seek in the homes and going on drives. Consuelo plans to be in the high school program at St. Joe’s and go to Chamberlain High School. When she grows up, she wants to be a social worker!
Basil
My name is Basil. I’ve been a student at St. Joe’s since the first grade. During middle school, I was involved in basketball, cross country and track. I was involved in the Native American Club in …
Basil
My name is Basil. I’ve been a student at St. Joe’s since the first grade. During middle school, I was involved in basketball, cross country and track. I was involved in the Native American Club in high school. There are many memories throughout the years that I’ve made that I’ll definitely think about in the future. My plans for after high school are to complete the welding diploma program at Southeast Technical College, and then see where life takes me. I would like to say “thank you” to Leonard and Aleece, Peter and Mary, Laura, Doug, Jan, Tim, Rebecca, Trond and Stephanie, Neil and Kristen (and Finley), Antwan, Stefen, Renee, Mike and April, Norm and Lilli, Kim and Andy, Phil, Lucy, and last, but definitely not the least, Aaron and Melissa. I can’t forget to mention Brian, Mark “Shoney” and Evan at the Rec Center. I’m sending a special thanks to my middle school teachers — you know who you are. My advice to the younger students — just have fun. I believe you have two lives; your second life starts when you realize you only have one life. Please stay on top of your homework; when you find yourself behind, remember it’s better to get things done than to have all answers correct.
Collin
My name is Collin. I’ve been at St. Joe’s since the third grade. The sports I’ve been involved with are basketball, track, football and cross country. Some of my favorite memories while attending St. Joe’s was …
Collin
My name is Collin. I’ve been at St. Joe’s since the third grade. The sports I’ve been involved with are basketball, track, football and cross country. Some of my favorite memories while attending St. Joe’s was the seventh grade cultural trip, home trips, and the senior home trip to Minneapolis. I would like to thank Dave and Jean, Odis, Neil and Kristen, Rob, Evan, and the rest of my houseparents over the years. My plan for next year is to attend Lake Area Technical College for automotive technology. My advice to younger students is get out your comfort zone — it’ll help you in the long run.
Josie
My name is Josie. I’ve attended St. Joseph's Indian School for five years. During my time at St. Joe’s and Chamberlain High School, I have been a part of volleyball, Native American Club, and HOSA. I’ve …
Josie
My name is Josie. I’ve attended St. Joseph’s Indian School for five years. During my time at St. Joe’s and Chamberlain High School, I have been a part of volleyball, Native American Club, and HOSA. I’ve been here long enough to make a lot of memories. There are many memories that come to mind, and if I had to pick a couple, it would be with Bobby and Angie at the Crane home. I’m sending a huge thank you to Robert for inspiring me in my program choice, Rigo and Julie for being great role models and always being there, Aaron and Melissa, Darcy and Jessica, Douglas, Lucy and Phil, and Amanda. My plans for next year are to attend the Culinary Academy of South Dakota at Mitchell Technical College. My advice for younger students is to be involved and take any opportunity that is given to you.
Larsten
Hello, my name is Larsten. I’ve attended St. Joe’s since eighth grade. I was a part of the Native American Club and was able to sing the Honor Song along with the others who were a …
Larsten
Hello, my name is Larsten. I’ve attended St. Joe’s since eighth grade. I was a part of the Native American Club and was able to sing the Honor Song along with the others who were a part of the club. Some of my favorite activities I’ve participated in at St. Joe’s were painting, seeing the horses, and going swimming. I have a TON of great memories of St. Joe’s, such as our senior trip to Minnesota! We ate at a Chinese restaurant where they made the food in front of us, stayed at a really big hotel, and visited a native coffee shop that was called “Pow Wow Grounds.” LOL. We also visited the mall — the place was so huge that I got lost so many times. Another one of my favorite memories was living in the Crane home and hanging out with the “OG” girls. Going fishing and the night drives are something I’ll always remember, along with visiting San Diego, CA, for a donor luncheon trip! I feel being a part of St. Joe’s is great. I’ve met and made so many friends, learned so much, and visited places I never thought I would have the opportunity to visit. I’m sending a big THANK YOU to everyone who I ever interacted with in my life. You’ve all helped me become who I am now, and I’ve learned so much. I want to thank my parents for always pushing me to do my best in anything. They are a huge reason why I’m the strong, independent woman I am today. My parents showed me that I can do anything I put my mind to; they are my biggest supporters, and I appreciate them so much. There are some shout-outs I HAVE to give — the first one goes to Angela and Benny for all the talks (whether they were good or bad) and the advice or just funny stories; they were also my first houseparents at St. Joe’s. I’m sending another shout-out to Angela and Robert — they were truly my second family. I love Angela and Robert and thank them for everything they ever done for me. I’ll forever cherish all the memories. Another shout-out goes to Jessica and Darcy. Living in Crane home with them taught me so much. I want to thank them for always listening to my rants and helping me through whatever I was having trouble with in the moment. I want to thank Aaron and Melissa for helping me prepare for my adult life. I also want to thank Doug, and Dan for helping me pass math; he was a huge part in me graduating. I’m sending a thank you to Krista for all the help with school, driving, jobs, applications — you’re great! Lastly, I want to thank Darcy B. There’s nothing to it, Darcy is heaven sent. My plan for the fall is to attend Western Iowa Technical Community College in Sioux City to become a veterinarian assistant! My advice to younger students would be to be outgoing, make friends, and join as many things as you can while you’re in school. Also, step outside of your comfort zone, don’t be afraid to ask for help, and most importantly, be yourself.
Taivin
Hi, my name is Taivin, and I’ve been a student at St. Joe’s for eight years. My favorite things to do are play my electric guitar, workout, listen to music, and hang out with my friends. …
Taivin
Hi, my name is Taivin, and I’ve been a student at St. Joe’s for eight years. My favorite things to do are play my electric guitar, workout, listen to music, and hang out with my friends. My favorite memory is when I got bit by a toothless dog after hiking Black Elk Peak. I would like to thank all of my houseparents — especially Norm and Lilli, Kim and Andy, and Glenda and Brian. I would also like to thank the rec center staff — Evan, Mark and Brian. I’m sending another thank you to my St. Joe’s middle school teachers — especially Matt, Joe, and Sarah. My plan for next year is to attend Lake Area Technical College for building trades technology. My advice for younger students is to put school first; it’ll be worth it.
Mariah
Hi, I'm Mariah. I’ve been a student at St. Joe’s for 12 years — a “lifer” basically. As for activities throughout high school, I was a member of the Native American Club. My favorite memories are …
Mariah
Hi, I’m Mariah. I’ve been a student at St. Joe’s for 12 years — a “lifer” basically. As for activities throughout high school, I was a member of the Native American Club. My favorite memories are the out-of-state trips, with the most recent trip being the senior home trip to Minnesota. My favorite part of the trip was visiting Valley Fair and enjoying the crazy rides and good food. I’m a big foodie. I want to thank all of my family and friends — especially Julie. Julie is my St. Joe’s mom, sticking with me to the end. My plan for next year is to attend Mitchell Technical College in the information systems technology program. My advice to younger students is to learn to embrace challenges rather than avoid them.
Building a Future: Taivin’s Alumni Story
At St. Joseph’s Indian School, we believe the values we instill in our students — respect, gratitude, hope and integrity — don’t just shape young lives. They ripple outward, touching families, communities and future generations. As …
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Chelsea’s Story
The slogan for Chelsea Wilson’s “RezKutz” business is, “Your satisfaction is my goal,” and it’s something she lives out through the satisfaction of giving back to the school she attended from 1st through 8th grade: St. …
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Richard’s Story
Richard Two Two has had many titles already during his young life. He’s been called son, brother, student, husband, dad, corrections officer and more. But, recently he added another title to that list — one he …
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LaToya’s Story
When LaToya Crazy Bull thinks about her future, it’s not necessarily a scene of events that come to her mind — rather, it’s the faces of those she loves most. At 29-years-old, she cares for her …
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Lily’s Story
Every year, approximately 200 students live and learn on the campus of St. Joseph’s Indian School. We clothe them, supply them with virtually limitless educational resources, and nourish their bodies with healthy foods and their souls …
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Christian’s Story
Higher education is expensive. It’s the simple fact of the matter. Not everyone can afford college, as well as the living expenses that go along with it. And the idea of paying back a large amount …
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Jacob’s Story
If you were to call someone on the phone, the most common response you’d expect to hear upon their answer is, “Hello, this is [insert name].” But Jacob Lacota is not your typical 22-year-old. He answers …
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Martina’s Story
Martina, an alumna of St. Joseph’s Indian School’s graduating class of 2016, was recently awarded the Army Achievement Medal for the second time! Martina attended St. Joseph’s for 11 years and was very involved in the …
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Irene’s Story
Irene, an alumna of St. Joseph’s Indian School’s graduating class of 2016, was recently awarded the Army Achievement Medal. Irene, of Lower Brule, S.D., attended St. Joseph’s from first grade through her senior year, graduating from …
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Shay’s Story
Shay, a certified nursing assistant (CNA) at a veteran’s hospital, was working a night shift when she heard an alarm sound. The alarm was to signal that a patient was in need of help, so she …
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The DreamMakers are a special group of friends who give automatic monthly gifts to ensure the Lakota (Sioux) children are provided for year-round … and will help provide dreams for the future.
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Our Mission
Since 1927, St. Joseph’s has educated Lakota (Sioux) children in mind, body, heart, and spirit.
Lakota Culture
Explore the traditions, language and ceremonies woven into daily life at St. Joseph’s.
Your Impact
See how friends like you bring hope and opportunity to Lakota children and families.
