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Indigenous Resources

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Introduction

This guide supports educators in integrating accurate and meaningful instruction about Indigenous peoples, cultures, histories, and contributions into K-12 curriculum. Each module centers Indigenous voices, aligns with the NYSED Portrait of a Graduate competencies, and connects to relevant New York State Learning Standards across multiple content areas.

Wave Belt showing a wampum belt on black background
Wave Belt
Graduation Cap from 2020 with beaded decoration with the Great Seal of the Shinnecock Indian Nation
Graduation Cap from 2020 with beaded decoration with the Great Seal of the Shinnecock Indian Nation

Connections to Portrait of a Graduate and NYS Learning Standards

A New York State high school graduate who is culturally responsive builds strong, respectful relationships, valuing diverse perspectives as essential to a rigorous, inclusive learning community. New York State students who embody cultural responsiveness and academic readiness—demonstrating creativity, critical thinking, communication, reflection, and global awareness—will be prepared to learn, grow, innovate, and contribute meaningfully to society. These graduates will be equipped with the interpersonal and intellectual skills needed to thrive in an interconnected, ever-evolving world.

Modules

Indigenous Ways of Knowing (IWOK) Language Revitalization
and Preservation The Great Law of Peace and U.S. Government Influence Environmental Stewardship and Traditional Ecological Knowledge Traditional
Games Days of
Remembrance
The Thanksgiving
Address Wampum Treaties, Federal Policies,
and Law Land
Acknowledgment Indigenous
Art Forms Cultural and Educational Sites in New York
Tribal Nations
of New York State Oral Traditions
and Storytelling Impact of European Arrival and Settlement Culture and
Ceremonies Literature by
Indigenous Authors Inclusive Student Engagement and Leadership Development

Note: This guide and the modules it supports are living documents that will continue to grow and improve based on input from educators, Indigenous communities, and Nation representatives. They are intended to affirm Indigenous identities, build educator capacity, and create culturally responsive, inclusive classrooms across New York State.