American Indian Studies (AIS)

American Indian Studies (AIS) provides the opportunity for Harding students to learn American Indian history, literature, and language. Ojibwe and Dakota languages are offered. In addition, we offer specialized classes for Native students, including American Indian AVID and Native Advisories. All AIS classes meet district and state content standards, and are developed as rigorous, culturally responsive courses.  

We have an AIS Cultural Specialist that supports students in the classroom and with individual academic and SEL coaching, focusing on 9th and 10th grades. Harding AIS also has a Licensed School Counselor that supports the work of the building counselors and provides additional support to Native students in academics and career and college readiness. Additionally, AIS collaborates with the Saint Paul Indian Education Program to offer support for American Indian students with attendance and grade monitoring, family/community involvement, programming, and social services.

COURSES OFFERED:

• Ojibwe Language Levels 1, 2, and 3
• Dakota Language Levels 1, 2, and 3
• American Indian Voices (English Language Arts)
• American Indian History
• American Indian AVID (Grades 9-12)
• Native Advisories

Graduate with a Distinction in AIS

Saint Paul Public Schools is proud to offer a “Distinction in American Indian Studies.” Students in the program have the same graduation requirements as their peers, but they elect to learn about Native culture, language, and history, and they are involved in the Native community. With the successful completion of program criteria, students will earn the “Distinction in AIS” mark on their final transcripts and their honor will be noted at the Indian Education and Harding High School graduation ceremonies. It’s a special honor that highlights the values of American Indian culture. Students of all cultural backgrounds are encouraged to participate.