Indian Wells celebrated Native American Heritage Week

HOLBROOK, Ariz. - Indian Wells Elementary School celebrated Native American Heritage Week Nov. 14-17. Each day was designated for students and staff to wear a different aspect of Native American attire: Monday, Native T-shirt Day; Tuesday, Moccasin Day; Wednesday, Traditional Hair Day; and Thursday, Traditional Jewelry Day. Throughout the week, each class decorated its door with student work of American Indian design.

Native American Week culminated with the Fifth Annual Fashion and Talent Show on Nov. 17. Many students dressed traditionally that evening and had the opportunity to walk the red carpet. A few non-Native teachers were informally adopted by our Native American employees, who dressed the participants in complete traditional attire, including jewelry and moccasins.

Miss Southwest Shaunacy Little, of Indian Wells, appeared as a special guest, performing with her flute. Sacred Nation, Donaban Bonney's Native drum group from Dilkon, performed from time to time throughout the evening. Former Indian Wells student Rhiannon Teller returned to present her sign language interpretation of the song "Colors of My Heart." The entertainment continued as several Indian Wells students demonstrated their dancing and singing talents.

A photo session with a dramatic backdrop of Navajo weaving was available for families to acquire a pictographic memory of their children dressed traditionally. The charge was only $1, and the proceeds will apply toward classroom supplies for teachers at Indian Wells Elementary.

Fresh fruits and veggies were available to all during the program. Indian Wells Elementary Student Council sold pie slices to raise funds for their projects. At the end of the evening, three baskets full of baking items, contributed by teachers and staff, and three turkeys were awarded as door prizes. All in all, the Native American Heritage Night was a success once again with 333 family and community members in attendance.