Lakota students honored for achievements

ST. FRANCIS "There is nothing more special than your own Lakota roots and culture," stated Superintendent Gorgie Paulhamus. She spoke to high school students at a special assembly called last week to honor the Lakota Language Bowl Team.

(above l-r) Harold Charging Hawk, Sammie Crow Good Voice, Lacey Wounded Face, Derek Two Eagle, Nannette White BuffaloChief, Chayo Torres photo by Vi Waln-Times Editor The team competed at the Lakota Na tion Invitational (LNI) competition in December 2009 and brought the third place plaque back to their school. St. Francis also had a hand game team in the competition at LNI. "You are bringing culture back to our school," stated Bon nie Hairy Shirt of the Bilingual Depart ment. "Our team never advanced this far before."

Former Miss Rosebud Shere Wright told the students they are "special to us, as Lakota we have a hard time having to go to school and also to remember our culture and learn our songs. It is your re sponsibility to get an education so you can help our people. Take care of your selves mentally and physically, all of you have a lot of life ahead of you."

Photos by Vi Waln "You have leadership skills and it is not about winning, it is about working hard and representing your school," Chayo Torres told the students. She serves as the Lakota history teacher and advisor to the team. "No matter how hard life is you have to keep going, I am very proud of you and you may think I am tough but it is because I love you."

The Lakota Flag song was rendered by Chelsea Brown and Nannette White Buffalo Chief who also sang before the Thursday night session at LNI. "These wicaglata were the first to ever sing the Lakota Flag song[unaccompanied by a drum group] at LNI " stated Torres "Our students are the true image of Lakota people," stated Lakota studies teacher Harold Charging Hawk, who also serves as advisor for the team. An honor song was offered by the Kiyukanpi singers. Language Bowl Team members include: Sammie Crow Good Voice, Nannette White Buffalo Chief, Maurissa Donald, and Derek Two Eagle.