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O CTOBE R 2021
Damno g izes
ACTIV E D EER M O O NMonth Awareness
Zagbëgon First Week of the School Year 2021 By Donald Sumners I never thought I’d be at Zagbëgon Academy (tribal preschool) working with our children teaching Bodéwadmi (Potawatomi) culture and traditions. On Tuesday, September 7, 2021 the first day classes resumed after the big COVID-19 Pandemic of 2020. It was filled with the return of all the smiling faces of tomorrow’s future leaders, young children. Zagbëgon Academy’s teaching philosophy blends traditional Bodéwadmi language and culture throughout its curriculum that reaches every aspect of children’s learning. The day started off with each class learning some of the basics of traditional lodge teachings i.e. introductions, smudging, and offering sema (tobacco), utilizing Bodéwadmi language.
It’s only been a week and they are already learning to introduce themselves as they enter the lodge by using “Bozho (Bodéwadmi for hello), name nde zhnëkas,” (Bodéwadmi for “I am called). These Penothésêk “little children” have special gifts that are more than welcomed and always appreciated each and every day. There are many activities and events scheduled for the 2021-22 school year and I encourage each and every parent, family, and friend to attend and support their child’s learning. I am learning from the children as much, if not more, than they are from me. Although, I never thought I would be here in this capacity, I am glad that I am. Please turn to page 14
Dowagiac, Michigan 49047 Box 180 • 32487 Moewe Pokégnek Bodéwadmik • Pokagon Band of Potawatomi
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