This excerp "The Akwesasne Freedom School" was written and shared by J.L. Metallic
"The Akwesasne Freedom School is now an independent elementary school that offers instruction from pre-kindergarten to grade eight. Recently, a grade nine level was added to the school (Sargent 2007).
However, unlike other immersion programs that use languages other than English, but follow the same teaching methods and curriculum found in mainstream schools – the Freedom School is founded on an entirely Mohawk way of thinking and learning (Harvard, 2005). Its curriculum and teaching methods are based on the Mohawk “Thanksgiving Address,” which teaches gratitude for the earth and everything upon it. Students study reading, writing, math, science, history, and geography, through their Mohawk language and culture (Akwesasne Freedom School, 1995).
The school is open year-round, operating for six weeks on and then two weeks off, based on the Mohawk Ceremonial Year, comprised of fifteen Longhouse ceremonies that students attend as a vital part of their education (Sargent, 2005, Harvard, 2005). In short, the school combines solid academics with a strong foundation in Mohawk language and culture. "
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