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The North Branch School District American Indian Education Program and committee of staff members and local citizens organized a solstice event for the public.  

It was held at the North Branch Area High School Monday night this week and featured food, the inspirational and colorful dances of first people and some instruction for those who wanted to join in...and storytelling by native writers and teachers.  

Bois Forte Band member Linda LaGarde Grover, a UMD professor and author,  and also  James Vukelich was scheduled. He spreads teachings of the Ojibwe and has a book, The Seven Generations.  

The winter solstice has been a time of celebration for American Indian people who use this time of year to honor the seasonal cycles and gift each other with stories. 

The North Branch District has achieved a certain number of Native student enrollment (10) which triggered formation of a committee to ensure indigenous families with students have the opportunity to gain culturally relevant education. The committee also helps to develop community-district partnerships to benefit mutual understanding.  

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