Curriculum FAQ

Who is this curriculum designed for?

The CTGR Curriculum was designed with K-12 educators in mind. It is intended to be used within K-12 classrooms throughout a variety of subjects. The curriculum can be used as it is presented but it can also be used as a learning resource for educators to spark interest and development of more Native Curriculum implementation. Recently we have also been exploring Grand Ronde curriculum development for more informal settings such as toddler daycare, pre-school classrooms, and outdoor schools. These lessons/activities should be added soon!

What does this curriculum contain?

Each grade level contains lessons full of valuable resources and activities for students. Lessons are tied to Oregon State learning standards and use culturally responsive learning practices to engage learners – helping them to make connections between their own lives, the history of their State/community, and life in the present.

When should this curriculum be taught?

Our goal is that these units and lesson plans will be integrated into existing curriculum and will be taught throughout the school year. While target “Native American Lessons and/or Learning Weeks” can convey much of the information and concepts, we encourage educators to approach these units/lessons as a classroom culture shift and use them to “sprinkle” culture throughout their curriculum. This conveys a message of equality and acceptance to students as they understand the concept of Native Americans’ role in the present-day.

Where can this curriculum be integrated?

It is the intent that these lessons will be integrated into pre-existing curriculum. They should be introduced to students as any other lesson would and can be applied in a variety of subject levels. While the lessons can be taught as small units, many also serve as stand-alone lessons and can be taught in conjunction with other non-Native curriculums.

Why is implementation of this curriculum important?

Traditional school curriculums carry negative stereotypes and reinforce bias towards many minority groups and diverse populations. The need for currently appropriate, relevant, and accurate curriculum has existed for a long time and this curriculum serves as a starting point to bridge that gap. Students deserve to see themselves reflected in their education – through the curriculum, classroom environment, and learning materials.

How can you begin?

Explore the curriculum and additional resources! While we do not have units developed for every grade level, many lessons can be easily modified for different grades. Once you have had the chance to explore, determine areas where these lessons and/or resources could be easily integrated into your pre-existing curriculum. If you have any questions, need some assistance, or feel unsure of where to begin – contact our Curriculum Specialist, Cheyanne Heidt at cheyannne.heidt@grandronde.org.