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Cucamonga Elementary School
By Principal Dr. Jenna Garretson-Tremayne
As we celebrate Native American Heritage Month, C.E.S. is excited to share some of the meaningful activities our students have engaged in to honor and learn about Native American culture and history. Our goal has been to provide experiences that deepen our students’ understanding and appreciation for Native American traditions, values, and stories, while also fostering a sense of respect and inclusivity within our school community.
To begin, each classroom was gifted a copy of Remember, a beautiful book written by Joy Harjo, a Native American author, that teaches children about the importance of culture and history. Teachers read the book aloud, sparking meaningful discussions in each class. Students had the chance to reflect on the themes and express their understanding through crafts, which added a creative and hands-on component to their learning. We are so pleased with how much students embraced this activity, showing genuine curiosity and respect for the stories shared within Remember. Our weekly read alouds from Dr. Tremayne will continue with stories and books that celebrate Native American Heritage.
Additionally, several classrooms listened to the story Grandmother’s Dreamcatcher, which opened up discussions on the symbolism of the dreamcatcher in Native American culture. Following the story, students created their own dreamcatchers, which are now on display in our multipurpose room. This hands-on activity not only allowed students to express their creativity but also provided an opportunity for them to connect more personally with a significant cultural symbol.
Our celebration of Native American Heritage Month culminated with a memorable assembly led by a special guest from the Cherokee Nation, Marty Hight. As a Cherokee Shawnee and mother of neurodiverse children, she shared a powerful message with our students on the importance of inclusivity, acceptance, and love for all people. She spoke about the significance of forgiveness and enriched her talk by sharing Cherokee songs and fables. Her presence and her words left a profound impact, reminding us of the universal values that can bring us all together.
Thank you for your continued support in helping us create a learning environment that celebrates and respects the rich diversity of our community. We are grateful to have these opportunities to broaden our students’ perspectives and foster a deeper appreciation for cultures that make up our shared world.
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