Dakhodiapi Wahohpi
This project will utilize a classroom in the Child Development Laboratory School at 921 17th Ave SE, Minneapolis, MN, and includes a dedicated classroom, separate outdoor play and learning area, staff office, bathroom, and laundry room to support the Dakota Language Nest. The grant is needed to fund staff to teach in the classroom, including developing curriculum, recruiting families, and implementing the early childhood program. The program will provide full-day early childhood education for children whose families who want to support Dakota language learning in a culturally responsive enviornment.
Expected outcomes for this project include the collaborative development of a culturally responsive and developmentally appropriate Dakota language early childhood curriculum for young children in Minnesota as well as a framework for an early childhood education curriculum for University students.