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Title VI Office of Indian Education

Office of Indian Education at East Columbus Jr/Sr High School

Empowering Native American Youth for Lifelong Success

At the Office of Indian Education at East Columbus Jr-Sr High School, our mission is to provide a culturally inclusive and academically enriching environment that empowers Native American youth to achieve lifelong success. We are committed to fostering the holistic development of our students by embracing their cultural heritage and equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and values necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

Core Values:

  1. Cultural Respect and Inclusivity: We honor the diverse cultural backgrounds of our Native American students and respect their traditions, languages, and beliefs. We create an inclusive atmosphere that celebrates and preserves the rich tapestry of indigenous heritage.
  2. Academic Excellence: We are dedicated to academic excellence and provide a rigorous, comprehensive curriculum that ensures students achieve their highest potential. We set high expectations for all students and offer support to help them succeed.
  3. Community Engagement: We engage with our local Native American communities, parents, and tribal leaders, forging strong partnerships to support our students. These partnerships strengthen the connection between school and home.
  4. Holistic Development: We understand that education is not solely about academics. We strive to nurture the physical, emotional, and social well-being of our students, creating well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of the future.
  5. Cultural Preservation: We actively engage in the preservation and promotion of Native American culture. Our students learn the importance of their heritage and the role they play in preserving and advancing it.

Goals:

  1. Academic Achievement: To enhance the academic performance of Native American students by providing quality education, personalized support, and access to advanced learning resources.
  2. Cultural Awareness: To instill pride and knowledge about Native American cultures, languages, and traditions in our students, fostering cultural preservation.
  3. Community Engagement: To establish and maintain strong connections with the local Native American communities, parents, and tribal leaders, creating a collaborative educational ecosystem.
  4. Well-being and Wellness: To promote physical and emotional well-being among students, offering support systems that address their diverse needs.
  5. Post-Graduation Readiness: To prepare students for post-secondary education and career opportunities by providing guidance, resources, and mentorship.

Our mission at the Office of Indian Education at East Columbus Jr-Sr High School is to equip our Native American students with the tools they need to become informed, responsible, and culturally-grounded citizens who can excel academically and make meaningful contributions to their communities and the world. We strive to be a beacon of educational and cultural excellence, embracing diversity, promoting unity, and fostering the growth of our students as they journey toward lifelong success.

Meet the Team for Columbus County Schools 

Name  Title  Phone Number 
Tamra Carter  Testing & Accountability Coordinator (CCS)  910-770-8324 
Courtney Patrick  Native American Tutor (ECJSHS)  910-646-4094 
Darlene Graham  Native American Tutor (HAES)  910-646-3510 

 

Stay Connected

 ECJSHS Remind Updates  Google Classroom 
7th Grade  Text @believeec to the number 81010   WWW6PSZ 
8th Grade  Text @3GFF3BH to the number 81010  LMWQYAS 
9th – 11th Grades  Text @ibelieve23 to the number 81010  EM5FHGP 
12th Grade  Text @dreamec to the number 81010  DSPLX25 
Hallsboro/Artesia Elementary Google Classroom: weelnug 

Facebook Group: Click here 

Resources

Clubs

  • AISES
    • AISES of Lake Waccamaw is a collaborative effort between East Columbus Jr-Sr High School and Hallsboro Artesia Elementary School aimed at promoting Indigenous student engagement and success in STEM education. This initiative serves Columbus County Schools by providing a platform for students from both schools to come together and explore various aspects of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.

      Through AISES of Lake Waccamaw, students have the opportunity to participate in hands-on STEM activities, workshops, and mentorship programs. These experiences not only enhance their understanding of STEM concepts but also foster a sense of community and cultural pride.

      One of the key objectives of AISES of Lake Waccamaw is to increase Indigenous student enrollment and participation in STEM courses. By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, the initiative aims to break down barriers and encourage more Indigenous students to pursue STEM-related careers.

      Overall, AISES of Lake Waccamaw plays a vital role in promoting STEM education, fostering cultural awareness, and empowering Indigenous students in Columbus County Schools. Through its collaborative efforts, it seeks to inspire the next generation of Indigenous leaders in STEM fields. The chapter goals are:

    • 1. Promoting STEM Education: The primary mission of the AISES Club is to promote and advance STEM education among its members. The club aims to inspire a love for science and technology, fostering an understanding of the role these fields play in addressing real-world issues.
    • 2. Encouraging Native American Representation: AISES seeks to encourage and empower Native American students to pursue STEM careers. By doing so, it aims to increase diversity and representation in these fields and contribute to the overall success of Native American youth.
    • 3. Hands-On Learning: Members of the AISES Club have opportunities for hands-on learning, including engaging in scientific experiments, technology projects, and engineering challenges. These activities foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
    • 4. Leadership Development: The club is committed to developing leadership skills among its members. Students have the chance to take on leadership roles within the club, gaining valuable experience in organizing events, guiding peers, and making a positive impact within the school and the community.
    • 5. Cultural Awareness: The AISES Club actively promotes cultural awareness and pride among its members. It encourages students to celebrate their Native American heritage and incorporate cultural elements into STEM-related activities, creating a well-rounded educational experience.
    • 6. Mentorship: AISES often offers mentorship programs, connecting students with professionals or college students in STEM fields who can provide guidance, support, and advice. This mentorship helps students navigate their educational and career paths.
    • 7. Community Outreach: The club may engage in community outreach and service projects related to STEM education, benefiting both the local community and its members. This fosters a sense of giving back and making a difference.
    • 8. Scholarships and Opportunities: AISES often provides information on scholarships, internships, and opportunities in STEM fields to help students pursue their educational and career goals.The AISES Club at East Columbus Jr-Sr High School is a vibrant community where students are encouraged to explore their interests in STEM while celebrating their Native American heritage. It actively contributes to the school’s mission of fostering academic excellence, inclusivity, and cultural pride.
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    • East Columbus JrSr High School AISES of Lake Waccamaw
    • Celebrating American Indian Heritage Month and the Impact of AISES
    • SPRK-ing Interest in Computer Science Robotics & Computer Science
  • NCNAYO 
    • The NCNAYO (North Carolina Native American Youth Organization) club at East Columbus Jr-Sr High School is a vibrant and culturally enriching student organization that is dedicated to fostering a strong sense of community, cultural awareness, and empowerment among its members. This club is a platform for Native American students and their allies to come together, celebrate their heritage, and make a positive impact within the school and the broader community. Key features and descriptions of the NCNAYO club at East Columbus Jr-Sr High School may include:
      1. Cultural Celebration: The club places a strong emphasis on celebrating and preserving Native American traditions, customs, and cultural heritage. Members have the opportunity to share their unique cultural experiences and traditions with their peers.
      2. Education and Awareness: The club serves as an educational resource for both its members and the wider school community. It provides opportunities for students to learn about the rich history, contributions, and challenges faced by Native Americans, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Native cultures.
      3. Community Service: NCNAYO members are actively engaged in community service projects. This commitment to service underscores the club’s dedication to giving back to the local community and making a positive impact.
      4. Advocacy: The club may engage in advocacy efforts to address issues affecting Native American students, both within the school and at the district or state level. This could include initiatives related to cultural sensitivity, representation, and student support.
      5. Leadership Development: NCNAYO offers leadership development opportunities for its members. Students can build leadership skills, promote inclusivity, and take on leadership roles within the club and the school.
      6. Collaboration and Unity: The club promotes unity and collaboration among its members, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie. It welcomes students from all backgrounds who are interested in learning about and supporting Native American culture.
      7. Cultural Events: NCNAYO may host cultural events, workshops, and presentations that are open to the school community. These events provide opportunities for cultural exchange and education.

      The NCNAYO club at East Columbus Jr-Sr High School is a place where students can connect, learn, and take pride in their cultural heritage while actively participating in the school’s broader academic and community life. It serves as a valuable asset to the school’s mission of inclusivity, diversity, and educational excellence.

Summary

The Indian Education Program plays a vital role in enhancing the mission of East Columbus Jr-Sr High School by promoting cultural heritage, community service, and academic growth. It reinforces the school’s commitment to providing a holistic education that nurtures students’ well-rounded development. 

  • Preservation of Cultural Heritage: The Indian Education Program celebrates and preserves the rich cultural heritage of our Indigenous students. It provides a platform for them to connect with their roots, understand their traditions, and share their unique cultural experiences with the broader school community. This not only fosters a sense of pride and belonging but also educates other students about the diverse cultural fabric of our community. 
  • Community Service and Engagement: The program encourages students to actively engage in community service, which aligns with East Columbus Jr-Sr High School’s mission of creating responsible and compassionate citizens. By participating in community service activities, students not only give back to their communities but also learn the value of empathy and service, which are essential qualities for future leaders. 
  • Recognition for Achievement: Earning a feather upon graduation for culture and community service and a cord for academic growth and achievement provides students with tangible recognition for their hard work and dedication. This recognition instills a sense of accomplishment and motivation to excel academically and serve the community. It serves as a powerful incentive for students to pursue excellence in both academic and cultural domains. 
  • Fostering a Supportive Environment: The Indian Education Program also fosters a supportive and inclusive environment within the school. It promotes diversity and cultural awareness, ensuring that students of all backgrounds feel valued and respected. This aligns with the school’s mission of creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment for all. 

In summary, the Indian Education Program at East Columbus Jr-Sr High School enhances the school’s mission by promoting cultural heritage, community service, and academic growth. It aligns with the school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded, culturally aware, and academically successful individuals who are prepared to make positive contributions to their communities and society as a whole. The program not only celebrates cultural diversity but also instills values that are essential for students’ personal and academic growth.