When you live, work, and go to school in Washington State, it’s nearly impossible not to feel a deep connection to the breathtaking landscapes that surround us. From the lush rainforests of the Olympic Peninsula to the rolling hills and arid lands of Eastern Washington, this state is a variety of natural beauty. However, it is important to recognize that long before cities and schools filled this land, it was cared for by the Native American tribes who have called it home since time immemorial.
For many educators, teaching about the land’s beauty also means teaching about its first stewards. This is the case for the third-grade teachers at Finley Elementary School, Ashley Bowen and Cami Cleaver. They are working in partnership with Lorianne Donovan, Regional Science Coordinator at ESD 123, to create a unit that weaves together reading, writing, social studies, and environmental education. At the heart of their efforts is the John McCoy (lulilaš) Since Time Immemorial (STI) curriculum, designed to teach students about the rich histories, cultures, and ongoing contributions of Native American tribes in Washington State.
Guided Language Acquisition Design (GLAD) Strategies Input Chart
A Holistic Approach to Learning
The teachers began their collaboration in August, setting clear goals to make learning meaningful and inclusive for all students. Recognizing the diversity of their classrooms—which include English language learners and students with special education needs—they are designing lessons that offer multiple ways for every student to engage with the material.
Their unit will focus on the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla, the Yakama Nation, and several tribes on the western side of Washington. Students will learn about the deep relationship these tribes have with the land, rivers, and natural resources. The lessons will not only highlight historical contributions but also connect students to the living cultures and traditions of Native communities today.
Connecting Students to the Land and Its People
To bring these lessons to life, the teachers are planning visits to local landmarks like Clover Island and the REACH Museum, where students can explore the interconnected stories of the land and its people. These field experiences, along with classroom activities, aim to foster a sense of respect and curiosity in students, helping them appreciate the beauty of Washington through the lens of its first caretakers.
The View from Finley Elementary
Looking Ahead
The teachers at Finley Elementary hope to launch this integrated unit in the spring, and they are eager to see how their students respond to this unique learning experience. By connecting the natural beauty of Washington with its Indigenous histories, they aim to inspire students to develop a deeper appreciation for both the land they live on and the people who have long cared for it.
This project serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring Native American tribes not just as part of history but as vibrant communities whose wisdom and traditions continue to shape the world around us.
