Ahead of Simley High School’s Graduation Ceremony, the Inver Grove Heights Schools (ISD 199) American Indian Education Program (AIEP) graduated four students. At the graduation, students were honored for their achievement and recognized for the learning they have done within the program over the years. 

Students invited teachers, staff, and family who have helped them achieve this milestone. Battle Creek Singers performed throughout the ceremony. American Indian Education Program Coordinator Mari Mansfield led the event, speaking about the graduates’ participation in the program. Member of ISD 199’s American Indian Parent Advisory Council Jamie Lindquist gave some remarks to celebrate the students before students were presented with their AIEP stoles to wear at Simley’s graduation. 

Graduate Vivian H. gave some remarks as well, highlighting her journey through the program since elementary school and all of the people who helped her reach graduation. Then, dancers from the Twin Cities Intertribal Drum and Dance Troupe performed in jingle dresses and other cultural regalia to mark the occasion.  

Indigenous singer, drummer, and educator Travis Decory shared advice for the graduates as they prepare to begin their next chapter, and students were presented handmade blankets to honor their accomplishment.

Attendees enjoyed a reception after the graduation of food from Trickster Tacos. Congratulations and best of luck to our AIEP graduates!