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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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Brooklynn
Brooklynn is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Her favorite memories at St. Joseph’s include staying in the break home with her sister and going on home trips. Brooklynn’s favorite trip was going to Thunder …
Brooklynn
Brooklynn is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Her favorite memories at St. Joseph’s include staying in the break home with her sister and going on home trips. Brooklynn’s favorite trip was going to Thunder Road because her houseparents let her drive the go-karts! Her favorite activity she’s done at school is “I Hate Winter Day” because she loves snow cones and competing in the coloring contest. Something Brooklynn has learned at St. Joseph’s is how to clean and how to manage her money. After 8th grade graduation, Brooklynn plans to stay and attend the St. Joseph’s high school program. She also wants to get a job to earn money for family members if needed. Brooklynn’s dreams for the future are to be a voice actor and have other side jobs. She’d also like to have a house or apartment!
Janessa
Janessa’s favorite school memory is spending time with her best friend, Mykah. Her favorite memory from her campus home is staying up late in 7th grade to tell scary stories in the basement. Janessa’s favorite trip …
Janessa
Janessa’s favorite school memory is spending time with her best friend, Mykah. Her favorite memory from her campus home is staying up late in 7th grade to tell scary stories in the basement. Janessa’s favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. Her favorite activity is playing volleyball. While at St. Joseph’s, Janessa has learned to get along with others and social skills. She plans to join the St. Joseph’s high school program after 8th grade graduation. Janessa’s dream for the future is to go to cosmetology school!
James
James is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. James’ favorite school memory was the 7th Grade Cultural Trip because he learned more about his culture. His favorite memory from his campus home is playing basketball …
James
James is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. James’ favorite school memory was the 7th Grade Cultural Trip because he learned more about his culture. His favorite memory from his campus home is playing basketball with Malikai. James’s favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was the Donor Event in Dallas, Texas. He spoke in front of the donors and answered their questions. He also got to experience virtual reality for the first time! His favorite activities at St. Joseph’s are basketball and football. James has learned how to control his anger and how that can keep him out of trouble while at St. Joseph’s. He plans on continuing with St. Joseph’s high school program after 8th grade graduation. James’ dreams for the future are to go to college and play basketball or maybe join the military!
Tyree
Tyree is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Tyree’s favorite school memory was meeting his mentor, Ben. His favorite memory in his campus home has been game night in Perky Home. Tyree’s favorite trip at …
Tyree
Tyree is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Tyree’s favorite school memory was meeting his mentor, Ben. His favorite memory in his campus home has been game night in Perky Home. Tyree’s favorite trip at St. Joseph’s was a school trip with his campus home. His favorite activity with St. Joseph’s is softball. Tyree has learned how to cook while being at St. Joseph’s. After 8th graduation, he plans to set the highest bench press record. Tyree would like to succeed and strive for better.
Mykah
Mykah is a member of the Northern Arapaho Tribe. Mykah’s favorite school memory is meeting and spending time with her best friend, Janessa. Her favorite memory from her campus home is going on a trip to …
Mykah
Mykah is a member of the Northern Arapaho Tribe. Mykah’s favorite school memory is meeting and spending time with her best friend, Janessa. Her favorite memory from her campus home is going on a trip to a hotel. She and Rylee both fell off the slide; she thought it was funny. Mykah’s favorite trip at St. Joseph’s was the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. Her favorite activity she’s participated in at St. Joseph’s is playing basketball. Something Mykah has learned at St. Joseph’s is to focus on things and never give up. After 8th grade graduation, she plans to continue with the St. Joseph’s high school program. Mykah’s dream for the future is to work as a mechanic.
Rayne
Rayne is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Rayne’s favorite school memory is attending the Donor Event in Sacramento, CA, with Jesse and Pte San. She has enjoyed all the homes she’s been in. …
Rayne
Rayne is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Rayne’s favorite school memory is attending the Donor Event in Sacramento, CA, with Jesse and Pte San. She has enjoyed all the homes she’s been in. Rayne’s favorite trip at St. Joseph’s was to a museum in with Claire, the librarian, and her classmates. Her favorite activity at St. Joseph’s was the pajama days and volleyball with coaches Jennie, Kim and Jesse. Since being at St. Joseph’s, Rayne has learned manners, cleaning up after herself and taking on responsibility. After 8th grade graduation, she plans to join St. Joseph’s high school program. Rayne’s dreams for the future are still undecided!
Kellen
Kellen is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Kellen’s favorite school memory is when the teacher dressed up as students. His favorite memory from his campus home is when they would go to Sioux …
Kellen
Kellen is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Kellen’s favorite school memory is when the teacher dressed up as students. His favorite memory from his campus home is when they would go to Sioux Falls on a home trip. Kellen’s favorite trip since he’s been at St. Joseph’s is when the 7th-12th grade went to Sioux Falls for a Skyforce game. His favorite activities at St. Joseph’s have been basketball, cross country and boat races in Dan’s science class. Since being at St. Joseph’s, Kellen has learned how to speak the Lakota language. After 8th grade graduation, he plans to finish high school. Kellen’s dream for the future is to play college basketball.
Randi
Randi is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Randi’s favorite school memory is doing the boat races in Dan’s science class. Her favorite memory from her campus home is when they went to Rapid …
Randi
Randi is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Randi’s favorite school memory is doing the boat races in Dan’s science class. Her favorite memory from her campus home is when they went to Rapid City and went to a water park on a home trip. Randi’s favorite trip was when the 7th-12th grades went to the Skyforce game in Sioux Falls. Her favorite activity at St. Joseph’s has been basketball. Something Randi has learned at St. Joseph’s is, “Don’t do drugs; they are bad.” After 8th grade graduation, she plans to join St. Joseph’s high school program and graduate. Randi’s dream for the future is to be a movie producer!
Blayze
Blayze is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Blayze’s favorite school memory is the Staff vs. Students games. His favorite memories from his campus home were going to Rapid City and hiking with the …
Blayze
Blayze is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Blayze’s favorite school memory is the Staff vs. Students games. His favorite memories from his campus home were going to Rapid City and hiking with the Perky Home in 6th grade. Blayze’s favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. He also enjoyed going to the State Fair. His favorite activity at St. Joseph’s has been playing basketball outside with everyone and his coaches, Evan and Colton. Something Blayze has learned while at St. Joseph’s is you can’t always win, sometimes you have to lose. After 8th grade graduation, he plans on continuing with high school. He would also like to continue to play football and basketball. Blayze’s dreams for the future are to get a D1 scholarship for basketball or join the military!
Tristine
Tristine is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Tristine’s favorite school memory is going on the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. Her favorite memories in the homes were being in her 6th grade home and April …
Tristine
Tristine is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Tristine’s favorite school memory is going on the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. Her favorite memories in the homes were being in her 6th grade home and April Fool’s Day. Tristine’s favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was going to Washington, D.C., in 7th grade. Her favorite activity at St. Joseph’s has been playing volleyball. Tristine has enjoyed all the knowledge she gained while at St. Joseph’s. After 8th grade graduation, she plans on continuing to high school. Tristine’s dream for the future is to be a journalist!
Victor
Victor is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Victor’s favorite school memory is building the boats and then racing them in the pool in Dan’s science class. His favorite memories in his campus home were …
Victor
Victor is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Victor’s favorite school memory is building the boats and then racing them in the pool in Dan’s science class. His favorite memories in his campus home were going on trips and having water balloon fights. Victor’s favorite trip at St. Joseph’s was going to Houston, Texas, at the end of 6th grade. He also enjoyed the 7th Grade Cultural Trip for the hikes. His favorite activities were track, cross country, football and softball. Something Victor has learned while being at St. Joseph’s was how to take care of himself. After 8th grade graduation, he plans on joining St. Joseph’s high school program. Victor’s dream for the future is to go to college.
John
John is a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. John’s favorite school memory was being in Nancy’s 7th grade class because she taught them a lot about their culture. He also enjoyed the fashion show and …
John
John is a member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. John’s favorite school memory was being in Nancy’s 7th grade class because she taught them a lot about their culture. He also enjoyed the fashion show and taking pictures during that event. His favorite memory from the campus home was going to the State Fair in Huron. John’s favorite trip he’s taken while at St. Joseph’s was the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. He liked learning more about his culture and the hikes. His favorite activity at St. Joseph’s was playing sports like basketball and football. He also enjoyed playing hide-and-seek with his houseparents. Some things John has learned while at St. Joseph’s are more about his culture, how to speak more clearly and how to dance in the Powwow. After 8th grade graduation, he plans to work in the summer and join St. Joseph’s high school program. John’s dream for the future is to make a lot of money!
Darnel
Darnel is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. Darnel’s favorite school memory was going to the Badlands in 6th grade. His favorite memory from his campus home was his 6th grade trip with Fisher Home. …
Darnel
Darnel is a member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. Darnel’s favorite school memory was going to the Badlands in 6th grade. His favorite memory from his campus home was his 6th grade trip with Fisher Home. Darnel’s favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. His favorite activities were basketball, football and track. While at St. Joseph’s, Darnel has learned how to take care of a home. After 8th grade graduation, he plans on continuing to high school. Darnel’s dream for the future is to go to the military!
Tatiyopa
Tatiyopa is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Tatiyopa’s favorite school memory was when Nancy, her teacher, randomly danced in class. Her favorite memory from her campus home was watching a meteor shower with her …
Tatiyopa
Tatiyopa is a member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. Tatiyopa’s favorite school memory was when Nancy, her teacher, randomly danced in class. Her favorite memory from her campus home was watching a meteor shower with her houseparents. Tatiyopa’s favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was going to the Skyforce game with the 7th-12th graders. Her favorite activities were volleyball and the inflatables. Some things Tatiyopa has learned while at St. Joseph’s are taking responsibility and thinking before you act. After 8th grade graduation, she plans to join St. Joseph’s high school program and possibly join volleyball. Tatiyopa’s dreams for the future are to become a paramedic, a traveling nurse or join the military!
Sophia
Pte San Sophia’s favorite school memory was when she went on the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. Her favorite memory in her campus home was wrapping presents with one of her houseparents. They wrapped them so they …
Sophia
Pte San Sophia’s favorite school memory was when she went on the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. Her favorite memory in her campus home was wrapping presents with one of her houseparents. They wrapped them so they were hard to open! Pte San’s favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was going to Rapid City and down the “Toilet Bowl” at Watiki Waterpark. Her favorite activities are volleyball, basketball, track and softball. At St. Joseph’s, Pte San has learned how to make friends and improve her basketball skills. After graduation, she plans to join St. Joseph’s high school program. Pte San’s dreams for the future are to be a welder and open a bakery! She also wants to continue playing basketball and live in Sacramento, California!
Brayden
Brayden is a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Brayden’s favorite school memory was the Staff vs. 8th Grade games. His favorite memory from his campus home was going on a haunted trail. Brayden’s favorite …
Brayden
Brayden is a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. Brayden’s favorite school memory was the Staff vs. 8th Grade games. His favorite memory from his campus home was going on a haunted trail. Brayden’s favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was the 7th Grade Cultural Trip. He also enjoyed going to the State Fair in Huron. His favorite activity was playing basketball and learning how to play football. Something Brayden has learned while at St. Joseph’s is how to be mature and to set an example. After 8th grade graduation, he plans to continue to learn and develop. He also plans to train in the sport he loves. Brayden’s dreams for the future are to play basketball at a D1 level or make the league.
Alexis
Alexis is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Alexis’s favorite school memory was playing hide-and-seek with the 7th-8th grade community at the park. Her favorite memory in the campus home was telling scary stories …
Alexis
Alexis is a member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. Alexis’s favorite school memory was playing hide-and-seek with the 7th-8th grade community at the park. Her favorite memory in the campus home was telling scary stories in the basement with her friends. Alexis’s favorite trip while at St. Joseph’s was was going to Sioux Falls for a Skyforce basketball game. Her favorite activity was playing basketball in 7th grade. Something Alexis has learned while at St. Joseph’s is how to talk to new people. She is undecided about where to attend high school. Alexis’s dream is to become a professional beaded earring maker!
Tre
My name is Armand “Tre” and I am an enrolled member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School for 10 years. During my time here, I’ve been involved in basketball, …
Tre
My name is Armand “Tre” and I am an enrolled member of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School for 10 years. During my time here, I’ve been involved in basketball, the Native American Club and art. One of my favorite memories was the cultural trip where I made a lot of friends and made unforgettable memories. My senior year has been the easiest and most fun and I’m excited to graduate with clear goals in mind. If I could give advice to incoming freshmen, I’d tell them to aim for a 4.0, stay locked in, pay attention and make as many friends as possible. I’d describe my senior year as sensational. I’m proud of staying on top of my grades, being smart and maturing into a good character. Over the past four years, I’ve been surprised by my artistic abilities — I really enjoy drawing, painting and producing beats. St. Joseph’s has helped me grow and mature. It’s truly been the best place for me to develop as a person. After high school, I’m most nervous about working my way up and making money, but I plan to attend Mitchell Technical College, and I am excited to start a good career and learn how to be an adult.
Ava
My name is Ava and I am an enrolled member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School since fifth grade. During that time, I’ve been involved in the art competition and …
Ava
My name is Ava and I am an enrolled member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School since fifth grade. During that time, I’ve been involved in the art competition and the Native American Club. One of my favorite memories was hanging out at Fisher Field (on St. Joseph’s campus) with my friends every day after school until it was time to go to the Rec Center or head inside. Moments at Fisher Field strengthened many of my friendships and gave me some of my best memories. Today, I’m still making memories and looking forward to our senior trip. I’m most proud of learning that my feelings matter and that it’s important to say what I feel and be myself, because no one knows me better than I do. Over the past four years, I’ve been surprised by how much I’ve learned to control my anger. St. Joseph’s has changed me by helping me become more understanding and patient with people, even when I don’t feel like talking or when I don’t like them. After graduation, I plan to attend Mitchell Technical College to study welding and earn my welding degree so I can be a woman in welding. One goal I’m excited about is having my own place.
Delante
My name is Delante and I am an enrolled member of the Kul Wicasa Oyate/Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School for 10 years, and during that time I’ve been involved in …
Delante
My name is Delante and I am an enrolled member of the Kul Wicasa Oyate/Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School for 10 years, and during that time I’ve been involved in the Native American Club. Some of my favorite memories include my first home trip to WaTiki Indoor Waterpark Resort, the cultural trip and the eighth grade home trip. As a high schooler, my favorite memory has been traveling to Germany and the Netherlands. The best advice I’d give to incoming freshmen is to focus on their schoolwork and manage their time. I’d describe my senior year as long. From my time at St. Joseph’s, I’m most proud that I stayed here. Over the past four years, I’ve been surprised by how sociable I can be when I put myself out there. St. Joseph’s has changed me by giving me opportunities I couldn’t get anywhere else. After high school, I’m most nervous about money. My plans after graduation are to pursue a welding degree from Mitchell Technical College.
Gabe
My name is Donald “Gabe” and I am an enrolled member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School since sixth grade. During my time here I’ve been involved in basketball, football, …
Gabe
My name is Donald “Gabe” and I am an enrolled member of the Oglala Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School since sixth grade. During my time here I’ve been involved in basketball, football, powwows, drum group, Explorers and Beta Club. Some of my favorite memories are working out, and fishing with my campus home. The best advice I’d give to incoming freshmen is to ride it out and make good choices. I’d describe my senior year as busy, but nice. I’m most proud of how much I’ve changed during my time here. Over the past four years, I’ve been surprised by how much my music taste has changed. St. Joseph’s has helped me grow by teaching me to speak up when I don’t like something. After high school, I’m most nervous about not being successful or not getting the job I want. I plan to take a gap year after graduation, and one goal I’m excited about is saving for college.
Earl
My name is Earl, and I am an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s since 10th grade. During my time here, I’ve been involved in basketball. One of my favorite …
Earl
My name is Earl, and I am an enrolled member of the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s since 10th grade. During my time here, I’ve been involved in basketball. One of my favorite high school memories has been meeting my first houseparents, Aaron and Melissa, Phil, Jack and Beth, and spending time with Mrs. Julie because she is such a fun person to be around. I’m most proud of truly finding myself as a Native American individual and figuring out what I need to do to become a better person for myself and others. Over the past four years, I’ve been surprised by the confidence and change I’ve gained from beginning to end. St. Joseph’s has changed me by helping me build confidence when interacting with others, making friends and learning to love people despite our differences. After high school, I’m most nervous about growing up more and losing the feeling I had when I was young. My plan is to attend Lake Area Technical College for a medical degree so I can help people and save lives. One goal I’m excited about is developing the skills to achieve the success I’ve always wanted.
Jamison
My name is Jamison and I am an enrolled member of the Ihanktonwan or Yankton Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School since 10th grade. During my time here, I’ve been involved in the …
Jamison
My name is Jamison and I am an enrolled member of the Ihanktonwan or Yankton Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School since 10th grade. During my time here, I’ve been involved in the Native American Club, HOSA and the Germany exchange program. My favorite memory at St. Joseph’s is simply being accepted and becoming part of a community that has always been loving and welcoming. I especially enjoyed attending the New York City donor event, traveling to Germany and spending time with my Crane Home family. I will always cherish the memories I made there, especially with Doug and Darcy (my houseparents). The best advice I’d give to incoming freshmen is to be yourself and never force yourself to change just to fit in. You shouldn’t be ashamed to show your real self and the most important thing is to love yourself because no one will give you more real love than you. I’d describe my senior year as bittersweet. I’m proud of myself for pulling through even when I felt alone, and for finding peace after pushing through hard times. What surprised me most about myself is that I didn’t give up. St. Joseph’s changed me by giving me support and encouragement from people I never expected. Having a family that isn’t blood, but still wants the best for you, is powerful. I’m grateful for everything St. Joseph’s has given me. After high school, I’m most nervous about being an adult. My plan is to work, save money and travel the world. One goal I’m excited about is getting a car and a home.
Kansas
My name is Kansas and I am an enrolled member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School for 10 years. During that time, I’ve been involved in basketball. Some of my …
Kansas
My name is Kansas and I am an enrolled member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School for 10 years. During that time, I’ve been involved in basketball. Some of my favorite memories include being young and having fun, going on field trips, making friends and keeping those same friends to this day, the drama, the awkward dances, and the hikes with Odis (my houseparent). Honestly, eighth grade was the highlight because we messed around all year and every day brought something new. As a high schooler, my favorite memories include Friday night football, loud basketball games, random side quests, the “remember when” conversations and cracking jokes with the guys. The best advice I’d give to incoming freshmen is not to try to be somebody you’re not, do your work and lock in. I’d describe my senior year as very sudden. I’m most proud of how much I’ve grown, not just academically but as a person. What surprised me most about myself is realizing that everything shifts and that I’m more than my grades. St. Joseph’s changed me by shaping my habits and routines and helping me become more independent. After high school, I’m most nervous about losing my sense of direction and dealing with unexpected problems, and realizing I’m not a kid anymore. Life is getting serious, so I know I have to lock in, but I think I’ve got it. After graduation, I want to take a year off, enjoy my freedom, get a job, save money and maybe go into HVAC, though I’m still figuring things out.
Kimimila
My name is Kimimila and I am an enrolled member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School for one year. During that time, I’ve been involved in the Native American …
Kimimila
My name is Kimimila and I am an enrolled member of the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School for one year. During that time, I’ve been involved in the Native American Club and participated in the Skyforce game as a flag holder in Sioux Falls. One of my favorite high school memories has been going to different places on home trips, especially visiting Kansas City. The best advice I’d give to incoming freshmen is to enjoy the little moments while you can. I’d describe my senior year as satisfying. I’m most proud of the personal growth and maturity I’ve gained while attending St. Joseph’s. What surprised me most about myself is how hard I’ve worked to get to this point in my school year. St. Joseph’s has changed me by teaching me how to be independent. After high school, I’m most nervous about how different life will be from this point on, though I don’t mind the change. I plan to go to Mitchell Technical College or maybe South Dakota State University. One goal I’m excited about after graduation is being able to be on my own.
Latoya
My name is Latoya and I am an enrolled member of the Rosebud Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School since sixth grade. During that time, I’ve been involved in basketball, volleyball and the Native …
Latoya
My name is Latoya and I am an enrolled member of the Rosebud Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s Indian School since sixth grade. During that time, I’ve been involved in basketball, volleyball and the Native American Club. One of my favorite memories was our trip to the Black Hills. We rented a cabin with the Mathias and Crane homes and at night we played hide and seek. Waking up in the cabin felt like a dream and being around girls who brought out so much laughter made it one of the best experiences. I loved when Giles and Crane homes were combined because having so many girls together made for great memories. The best advice I’d give to incoming freshmen is to believe in yourself and know you’re capable of more than you think. Work hard, don’t give up and learn from both the good and bad experiences along the way. I’d describe my senior year as unforgettable. I’m most proud of learning more about my culture since it wasn’t something I grew up around, and I’m thankful I got to experience it here. What surprised me most about myself is how much I’ve come out of my shell. St. Joseph’s changed me by helping me become more independent and giving me the support I needed to believe I could do this. After high school, I’m nervous about the process of getting the things I want because I know it will be hard, but I also know it will be worth it. I’m considering trade school in Rapid City at Western Dakota Technical College or going into the workforce. One goal I’m excited about is making money so I can move somewhere decent and see where the future takes me.
Shayla
My name is Shayla and I am an enrolled member of the Kul Wicasa Oyate or Lower Brule Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s for eight years. Throughout high school, I’ve been involved in HOSA, the …
Shayla
My name is Shayla and I am an enrolled member of the Kul Wicasa Oyate or Lower Brule Tribe. I’ve lived at St. Joseph’s for eight years. Throughout high school, I’ve been involved in HOSA, the Native American Club and the Art Competition. Some of my favorite memories come from the Summerlee Home, where I loved going on bike rides, watching movies on weekends, playing Just Dance, listening to Jesus’ music and playing outside with friends. I’ll always remember the home trips, too. In Stevens Home, I loved spending time outside with friends, having late-night conversations with the houseparents and the girls, having sleepovers, playing hide and seek at night, riding scooters around campus, and going on car rides. I’ll miss when Giles and Crane homes were all in one home my freshman year. I’ll miss bonfires, working as a junior houseparent, going on bike rides in the summer, late-night talks with my roommates, getting yelled at for being too loud, sledding in the winter and going on drives with friends. My advice for younger students is to lock in during freshman and sophomore years so junior and senior years are easier, and to get a job if you’re not in sports and save your money. After graduation, I plan to go straight to work. I’m most proud of making it through my freshman and sophomore years. St. Joseph’s changed me by giving me a safe place to grow up and the best childhood. After high school, I’m most nervous about all the changes ahead.
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.
