Learning the Language of the Land

Our School Forest Plant Walk Project was created to honor the original language of this land and the plants that have sustained generations. Each Dakhóta plant name you’ll hear below was spoken by our dear friend, teacher, and relative Wanblí Mayášleča (Hill Coyote Spotted Eagle) of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. His voice, guidance and wisdom remain a beloved part of our school community.

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Wanblí entered the spirit world in 2023, and this project carries his memory forward, offering future generations a chance to learn, listen, and connect more deeply with the land.

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The Dakhóta plant names were generously provided by Dakhóta linguist Dawí Huhá Máza, whose work preserves and uplifts the language, teachings, and stories of this place.

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This work was made possible with support from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources through a No Child Left Inside grant.

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We offer this immersive plant walk through our school forest in gratitude — to the land, the language, and the loved ones who continue to guide us. Tókša akhé!