Native American Education Program
Aanii, Biindigen (Greetings, Welcome)
Grand Rapids Public Schools is proud to offer the only Native American Education Program (NAEP) in West Michigan.
Our mission: To support our Native American scholars in successful academic achievement while preserving and respecting the whole person through culturally relevant activities.
Our Vision: Gakina agegoo ji-ni-minoowazhiwebag, A balanced and productive future.
Eligibility: We serve all native American scholars regardless of quantum and/or tribal members.
Serving the Native American Community
NAEP is a federally funded program throughout the United States Government known as Title VI. Through the collection of Indian Student Eligibility (ED 506) forms for the Title VI Indian Education Formula Grant Program, we are able to serve over 170 scholars from 29 tribes across turtle island. Tribal Representatives provide consultation that supports the development of credible programming, curriculum, and resources for participating scholars. We actively engage with the Native American community through program events and initiatives that will provide scholars with a balanced and productive future.
NAEP Activities & Initiatives
We believe "it takes a village to raise a child." Help support our program and serve our Native American scholars.
- Volunteer
- Become a Tutor
- Joining our NAEP Parent Committee
- Donate goods, services or monetary resources
Through your support, our scholars have access to:
Academic Support
Native American Support Coordinators serve as a liaison and academic resource for Native American scholars to help increase graduation rates by:
- Encouraging to participate in afterschool programs, academic clubs, or athletics, which are proven to support academic achievement
- Encouraging good learning habits
- Acknowledging good grades and good behavioral habits with positive reinforcement
- Facilitating personal goal setting
- Meeting with Native American scholars regularly to monitor their progress
- Working collaboratively with scholars, families, teachers, advocates, and principals
- Assisting scholars with the transition from elementary into middle school and middle school into high school.
Afterschool Programming
The afterschool program provides cultural education, tutoring, and homework help to students in grades K-12.
Pow Wow
Maampi-E-Oujiijig Anishinaabe Binoojiinyag (Indian Children who Originate from Here). Native American students who attend the afterschool program have an opportunity to make regalia and dance in the annual spring Pow Wow.
School Presentations & Assembly
Native American Education Program staff deliver age appropriate presentations on Native American culture to students in grades K-12.
Upcoming Events
Parent Meetings are held four times per year.
Parents, grandparents and community members of Native children are welcomed and encouraged to attend Parent Meetings to give their input on educational and culturally relevant activities.
Contact Us
Native American Education Program
Call 616-819-3318
