Alcott third graders learn Native American history during visit from ENAEP coordinator

Two students were smiling from ear to ear as they played on traditional Native American instruments. This took place when Lauren Nabahe, Eastside Native American Education Program (ENAEP) coordinator, visited Alcott Elementary on November 15. Nabahe is Paiute-Shoshone, Navajo and Mono from the traditional lands of her people in Lone Pine, Calif. She works, via ENAEP, throughout the entire eastside to provide students with the opportunity to succeed academically and also provide opportunities that enrich their cultural lives.  

During this visit, Nabahe taught the third-grade students in the library a song to honor the four elements (earth, fire, wind and water). She then went into teaching the students the meaning of reciprocity, and how we make exchanges not just between people for mutual benefit, but also with the land, fruits and vegetables, and more. The group talked about potlatch, which is a ceremonial feast that is unique to the Coastal Salish people of the northwest coast.  

After discussing with the students how we are all related to the plants and animals here on earth, Nabahe had them go through a gratitude activity. She passed out several roses for the students to hold and look at, and described to the students how much care went into bringing these flowers to life. She challenged them to think about how they could learn from the plant and how flowers can be impacted by signaling good or bad thoughts towards the rose. Later, she used the example of an elk skin drum that she brought with her to show how we can respect the instrument because it at once, and still, embodies life. 

You can learn more about ENAEP by visiting their website at www.enaep.org.