Expanding the Circle:
Respecting the Past, Preparing for the Future

Strategies for Implementation

As you plan to utilize the curriculum in your program, here are some tips that are essential for the success of the program and the well being of the students.

• Select a skilled facilitator/trainer to implement the curriculum. Many of the activities require someone who not only can complete the activities with students, but also someone who is able to facilitate effective post-activity discussions.

• Create a program where the students feel safe by —

  • Providing a culturally welcoming environment.

  • Hiring staff that know the students and know how to work well with American Indian students.

  • Scheduling carefully and following through on all activities.

  • Over-planning with more activities than you think you will need.

• Respect the individuality and culture of students by meeting them “where they are” so they can learn to be more accepting of themselves and others.

• Provide positive American Indian role models on site, either as guest speakers, staff, or community elders who are asked to participate.

• Ask the community and students to help select the activities so they reflect the local culture and needs of the students.

• Actively participate in all activities with the students. Do not act as an “on looker” who is observing, but not interacting.

• Take the time to develop a personal relationship with the each student. This is a “nice” aspect of learning for most students, but essential for most Indian students.

• Require that the students attend the program in its entirety...every day for every activity. This prepares them for the importance of attendance on the job and for higher education classes. Emphasize that attendance is a critical element of learning.

• Expose students as often as possible to postsecondary education options and career options during your program. It is safer to assume that there has been little or no exposure to such opportunities than the reverse.

• Be consistent in your interactions with everyone in the program — staff, students, and administrators. This includes follow through and consequences for behavior.

• Plan a daily schedule with structured activities throughout the day.

• Revise/adjust the schedule as needed to continually improve the program.