Native Community Celebrates High School Graduation

The graduating seniors were honored with a special ceremony that incorporated aspects of indigenous culture.

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) – Indigenous families and their support systems came together to celebrate their newest class of graduating high school seniors.

The ceremony took place at Dakota High School on 9th Avenue South in Fargo.

It kicked off with a prayer and communal meal in the school’s cafeteria – followed by diploma presentations accompanied by traditional Native song and dance.

Those who work with Native American students within the Fargo and West Fargo public school systems say it’s extra important to celebrate their achievements.

“We have a lot of challenges, I think, in our population. We have some of the lowest graduation rates. So when our students make it to their graduation day, it is such a huge accomplishment,” explained Melody Staebner, Indian Education Coordinator.

“Sometimes school has been easy; sometimes it’s been challenging. But we’re really glad, and we’re all here to celebrate them and support them.”

Each student was also given an eagle feather and a stole – plus, elementary school students gave the seniors gifts in order to encourage the younger generation to begin thinking about higher education.