Character Building of our Lakota (Native) students has been the first priority focus since the days we lived in tipis. Elders and Children were always first when considered in the families. Native people knew that if we raised decent human beings, our way of life would be easier to manage. Building character also helps our Native students excel and fosters a healthy identity. Native students must know who they are and where they fit in society. I use a number of books to establish Classroom Management and Classroom expectations. Examples of literature is Peta Shows Mesun the Light by Jessie Taken Alive - Rencountre and Gift Horse by SD Nelson. I also plug in the Lakota language into these teachings as much as possible. From these two books it is easier to establish Classroom Protocol.
