{KXLG – Watertown, SD} The students of Mellette Elementary School in Watertown received a cultural exchange visit from the Dakota Culture Club of Enemy Swim Day School. Darell DeCoteau, the Dakotah Cultural Dean of Students, brought a bus full of singers, drummers, and dancers dressed in traditional regalia.
Dean DeCoteau explained the meaning behind the song, composed before World War II, to inspire bravery and patriotism among the Dakota people, starting with “The Flag Song…”
DeCoteau shared that each attendee would receive a Native name for the day, symbolizing their participation in the event…
Dale introduced different dance styles, including the Jingle Dress Dance, known for its healing properties, and the Women’s Fancy Dance celebrated for its vibrant and energetic movements. The Grass Dance, originating from the Omaha people, was also performed, demonstrating the grace and precision of the dancers’ movements.
KXLG News caught up with DeCoteau after the presentation to find out more. He says that if an organization reaches out to the Dakota Culture Club through the Enemy Swim Day School, they will work it into the schedule.
Currently, the club averages only a few a year, generally around Native American Heritage Month in November. However, DeCoteau feels it’s essential for everyone to learn more about the culture…
The audience also learned about the traditional materials used in making dance outfits, such as snuff tins for jingles, highlighting the resourcefulness and creativity of the Dakota people.
Enemy Swim Day School was built in 1938 and is one of the original “day” schools started in the 1930s; the word “day” sets it apart from “boarding” schools…
DeCoteau shared that The Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate Pow Wow is the second oldest in the Nation and, in 2025, will hold its 158th Annual Wacipi around the fourth of July.
Mellette Principal Andi Ward invited the club…
One of the highlights of the event was the interactive round dance. Dale invited students and attendees to join the dancers in a large circle, teaching them the steps and rhythm of the dance. This social dance, traditionally performed during the winter, allowed everyone to experience the joy and unity of Dakota culture firsthand. The participants moved in unison, following the drum beat and creating a sense of community and togetherness.
The club had the entire gym dancing along, including Superintendent Dr. Jeff Danielsen and Assistant Superintendent Derek Barrios joining the dance circle…
Check out the story for complete audio from the day’s event and contact information for the Enemy Swim Day School. https://esds.us/stm_teacher_category/dakota-culture/
Key Members of the Dakota Culture Club
- Darell DeCoteau: Dakotah Cultural Dean of Students
- Travis Herrick: Dakota Language Teacher
- Jessica Tiger: Dakota Culture Teacher
- Santana Fuentes: Dakota Language Teacher
The club organizes various activities throughout the year, including language bowls, archery competitions, hand game tournaments, and cultural exchange events. These activities enrich students’ cultural knowledge and promote a deeper understanding of their heritage.
Here is the contact information for Enemy Swim Day School:
Address: 13525 446th Avenue Waubay, South Dakota 57273
Phone: (605) 947-4605 Toll Free: (888) 825-7738
Fax: (605) 947-4188
Email: