Taking Charge, Making Change tells the story of how Native families from Crow Creek, Lower Brule, and nearby communities reshaped the Catholic Stephan Mission boarding school—once aimed at assimilation—into the tribally run Crow Creek Tribal School.

Drawing on archival research and interviews, historian Robert W. Galler Jr. centers Native voices to reveal how collaboration with Catholic leaders over generations transformed both the school and its mission.

The book highlights how families helped build the school, sustain it, and influence its direction. Graduates went on to serve in the military, earn advanced degrees, lead tribal councils, challenge federal policies, and shape Native education for future generations.

Dig into history this summer! Archaeology Camp is a three-day, hands-on adventure where campers will explore the exciting world of archaeology.

Dates: June 10–12, 2025
⏰ Time: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily
Location: Pierre, SD
Who Can Attend? Students entering grades 4–6 in the 2025–2026 school year (no exceptions).
If a camper cannot attend all three full days, please do not sign up to allow others to fully participate.

Registration Details
Opens: Thursday, May 1, at 8:00 AM CT
Closes: When the camp is full OR by May 3, 2025 (whichever comes first)
⚠️ Spots are limited! In past years, registration filled within 20 minutes.
⚠️ Only 20 new campers will be accepted.

⚠️ If your child has attended before, they can join the waitlist by emailing their name to katie.wasley@state.sd.us between 8:00 AM on May 1 and 5:00 PM on May 3. Past campers will only be considered if fewer than 20 new campers register.

What to Expect
Campers will experience real archaeology with activities like:
✅ Excavating an actual archaeological site
✅ Cleaning and sorting real artifacts
✅ Throwing atlatls (prehistoric spears)
✅ Exploring historic sites
✅ Creating metal decorations, ceramics, and more!

Don't miss out on this unique summer experience! Be ready to register right at 8:00 AM on May 1 to secure a spot.