Tomah Area School District Celebrates Native American Heritage Month Through Cultural Learning and Community Partnership

Posted December 4, 2025

Throughout the month of November, students across Tomah Area School District participated in a district-wide celebration of Native American Heritage Month, made possible through the generous contributions and support of the Ho-Chunk Nation Office of the President, Ho-Chunk Nation Legislators, and the coordination of TASD Title VI Indian Education Coordinator, Bonnie Bird.

Artisans and speakers from the Ho-Chunk Nation visited schools across the district to share their culture, history, and traditions through interactive, hands-on demonstrations. Students learned about traditional bead work, Ho-Chunk applique, basketry, quill work, and participated in traditional Native American games, including Caabnąąkisik (Lacrosse) and Wagujegikok (Moccasin).

Participating artisans and presenters included: Levi Winneshiek, Jacob Blackdeer, and DJ Scott (Moccasin); Ryan McClure, Thalia Nambo, and Emily Blackdeer (traditional food ways); Randall Blackdeer (Lacrosse); Josie Lee (baskets and beadwork); Priscilla Cleveland, Paula Cleveland, Stormy Perry, and Gabrielle Rave (paaxge/beadwork); and Virginia McArthur (quill work).

A crowd favorite -frybread was enjoyed again this year by the students and staff at the High School, where Priscilla and Paula Cleveland demonstrated frybread making in all the Family and Consumer Education (FACE) classes. They also made and shared frybread with students and staff at Wyeville Elementary as part of the school’s Fall Fest celebration. These experiences allow students to learn directly from cultural experts and gain a deeper appreciation for Native American craftsmanship and traditions.

Students also participated in a week of Spirit Days such as Rock Your Moccs Day, an annual national event that promotes Native American unity and celebrates the pride of Native America. The school-wide spirit days were started four years ago by TASD Title VI Coordinator Bonnie Bird as a way to encourage district-wide participation and to invite community members to join in the celebration. Since its beginning at TASD, the event has grown to include Black River Falls School District, Wisconsin Dells High School, Baraboo High School, and Nekoosa High School, along with their respective communities.

The month of learning and celebration concluded with the district’s Mini Powwows, held throughout the day at Tomah High School. Students from Black River Falls Ho-Chunk High School Classes and the Wąąkšik Wacek Club joined TASD students in the celebration. The Mini Powwows have become a cherished tradition where students learn about the meaning of traditional regalia, the history and purpose of various dances, the role of the singers, and the importance of community within Native culture. Students and staff were invited from the audience to join the dancers on the floor, creating an interactive and memorable experience for all involved.

Bonnie Bird shared, “I look forward to celebrating Native American Heritage Month each year. These celebrations were started within TASD in 1993 by Priscilla Cleveland, the TASD Indian Education Coordinator at that time. The various activities done within the district are always changing, bringing in new ideas as well as continuing to utilize many of the original ideas to embrace and celebrate Native American language and culture. I truly enjoy bringing a piece of living culture to the district. I hope that all involved walk away having learned something new and can continue to appreciate other cultures; thus, continuing the cycle of learning and growing.”

“My sincere thank you to THS faculty member Bonnie Bird and the Ho Chunk Nation for providing meaningful cultural educational opportunities to our students each year. We are proud of our partnership together celebrating Native American Heritage Month with experiences that strengthen our student’s understanding of Native American language and culture.” Mike Hanson, TASD District Administrator.