From May 19 to 22, 2025, students across the elementary and high school campuses participated in Culture Camp Week, a vibrant celebration of Tlingit heritage, language, and traditional knowledge. Organized under the leadership of Pauline Johnson, Tlingit Language Teacher and event head, the week was filled with storytelling, singing, crafting, and cultural learning that brought students and community members together in meaningful ways.
Each day at the high school began with a cultural gathering featuring traditional Tlingit songs and dances performed by students from kindergarten through 12th grade.
Throughout the week, students participated in a variety of cultural camps led by dedicated teachers and staff. At the elementary level, students enjoyed storytelling with Tlingit books, created artwork inspired by traditional themes, and worked on projects such as paper button blankets, medallion necklaces, weaving with wooden looms, basket making, sewing Eagle or Raven headbands, and gardening. The camps were thoughtfully designed to help younger students connect with Tlingit practices in engaging and age-appropriate ways.
Junior high and high school students took part in more advanced workshops, also led by teachers and staff, that encouraged deeper cultural exploration. These included formline art design, sewing button blankets and headbands with Eagle or Raven designs, creating traditional dance bibs, and digital storytelling using Tlingit literature. In addition, students worked on individual sewing projects, showcasing their skills and cultural pride.
Culture Camp Week created a powerful space for students to learn from their heritage, guided by the commitment and expertise of school staff. It was a week of pride, respect, and community, honoring the past while nurturing cultural knowledge for the future.