Spokane Public Schools -

On Friday, Nov. 15, 2024, 43 SPS students were recognized by Native Education as Students of Excellence, surrounded by a community of educators and loved ones at Flett Middle School.

Indigenous educator and consultant Dr. Martina Whelshula, a member of Arrow Lakes Nation of the Colville Confederated Tribes, provided a brief keynote during the event. “I love working with young people. They are inspiring and funny. And recognizing them in front of their family and friends means a lot,” she said. “Many times, our kids feel invisible. We don’t brag about ourselves, but we need to brag about our children.”

She also shared a few words about the Seven Grandfather Teachings, the guiding principles of the Anishinaabe people’s way of life. Each attribute is represented by an animal, and students received awards for exhibiting one or more of these qualities in their communities:

Before awards were presented, Cree Welshula shared a blessing for a meal catered by Indigenous Eats and the Shaw Middle School Wolf Soldier Drum Group performed Honor and Flag songs to celebrate the students. Congratulations to these students!

Spokane Public Schools Native Students of Excellence Awards

Thank you for Native Education staff and sponsor West Spokane Wellness Partnership for recognizing these students through a fantastic evening of community!