SAINT IGNATIUS — Nearly 90 people attended a two-day professional development culture camp last week to learn traditional skills including hand drum making, yarn and leather belt weaving, moccasin construction, beadwork, rattles, and dry meat preparation. Kootenai and Salish language lessons, as well as a Native plant nature walk, were offered to Head Start staff. Each station was equipped with materials and led by knowledgeable experts.
The overall goal was to introduce ECS (Early Childhood Services) staff to language and cultural arts that can be brought into their classrooms.
Liz Camel, the education manager for ECS at the Polson centers, shared the intent of the camp. “We just want you to enjoy being out here and hope you all take something you can bring back into the classroom, of course,” said Camel.
Four ECS cultural specialists—Marquise Askan, Siliye Pete, Frank Finley, and Nicole Perry—led activities alongside experts from Nkwusm Salish Immersion School, Three Chiefs Cultural Center, and members of the community. Tribal elders Kenny McClure and Patty Bundy were invited to share their knowledge of dance regalia construction and sewing.
“I think it’s important to have the elders here,” said Patty Stevens. Though she typically works in finance and budgeting at ECS, Stevens took on the responsibility of coordinating this year’s camp. “I really like doing the cultural part of it, so it’s nice to be able to do that—and I’m enjoying it.”
Stevens is also stepping into a new role overseeing the cultural specialists and helping shift their responsibilities back to cultural education across all centers. Due to staff shortages, many specialists were previously pulled into general classroom duties.
Carrie Antoine, the new ECS director who took over after Jeanne Christopher’s retirement last year, emphasized the importance of connection and relaxation. “We’re here to have a good time, relax, and visit. You all can make connections with each other and talk about what you might be doing in your classrooms,” said Antoine.
Antoine praised Camel and Stevens for their work behind the scenes. Camel also prepared meals for the camp, while Stevens coordinated the activities. “Patty and Liz have done a lot of background work in trying to get this put together. I see that that’s the passion in Patty,” said Antoine. “She’s run with it, and I’ve had little to do with it—except the finance part.”
Sounds of laughter, conversations, and even a little frustration during mistakes could be heard throughout the two days. Many participants were able to complete intricate projects despite learning the skills for the first time. Most attendees said their favorite part of the camp was simply being together and connecting with one another. Staff from different Head Start centers don’t often have the opportunity to gather in one place.
“Willie and I were blessed to use our home as we appreciate our teachers of our children,” said Stevens. “It was also nice to see all the centers in one location and get to put names with faces. If possible, it would be nice to do it all week.”