Akwesasne Conference

Akwesasne and New York State Teaching and Learning Standards Orientation


Conference Details

This conference allows participants to receive an introduction to Mohawk history & culture and how projects in reading, art, science, social studies and other classroom activities meet the New York State Teaching and Learning Standards as well as reflect Mohawk culture.

Future teachers gain an enhanced understanding of the important role that educators play in validating their students’ cultural heritage in the classroom and in the school district.

Location

Local school on the St. Regis Akwesasne Mohawk Reservation.


Sponsors

  • TOC
  • The Teacher Leader Quality Partnership (TLQP) program
  • The Salmon River Central School District and
  • The Akwesasne Board of Education

Conference Schedule

8 - 9 a.m.

Travel by bus from SUNY Potsdam to the conference.

9 a.m. - Noon

  • Traditional Mohawk Opening Address by Mohawk student, Skaniehtiiostha Montour with an explanation in English.
  • Welcome by the school principal and tour of the school. 
  • Mohawk history and government presentation by Barry Montour, Director of the Akwesasne Mohawk Board of Education.
  • Information on the impact of federal and state grants such as Title VII, Upward Bound, Potsdam Akwesasne Talent Search (PATS), and the North Country Science and Technology Entry Program (NCSTEP) on students and educational development in the Salmon River School District presented by St. Regis Mohawk Education Committee members.
  • Lesson on pronunciation and meaning of words in the Mohawk language led by a Mohawk language teacher.
  • Presentation on the principles of learning and instruction and on developing lesson plans to meet the New York State Teaching and Learning Standards by Salmon River Central Elementary School literacy specialists.

12:15 - 1:30 p.m.

Lunch

1:45 - 3 p.m.

Tour of Akwesasne Museum by Susan Herne, Museum Director.

3 - 4 p.m.

  Travel by bus to SUNY Potsdam.