LAKOTA LANGUAGE AND CULTURE CLASSROOM

About the Instructors

Fred Stands – Hau Mitakya pi. My name is Fred Stands. I’m the Lakota Language teacher here at RED CLOUD INDIAN SCHOOL. I’ve been teaching the language for 22 years. I’m a fluent speaker. I teach language, history, culture, tradition, spirituality, and pow wow. Sometimes I get to a point where I have to put in extra time to really work with the children. They enjoy class and are willing to learn. I am a Pow Wow singer and a traditional dancer. My drum group is called ‘Sons of the Oglala’s’. We are on of the oldest drums around. Matt and Nellie Two Bulls formed the group back in the 50’s. They were the Lakota language and singing teachers here at Red Cloud for about 20 years so you can see how long this class has been going on – that’s 40 years for the language class. I don’t know who taught it before that. I’m happy to be part of RED CLOUD INDIAN SCHOOL. That is some parts of my life. Thank-you.

Marlon Kelly – Hau, ma caje ki han Sungmanitu paha ka najin emaciyapi yelo. Hello! My name is Sungmanitu Paha Ka Najin, which means ‘Wolf on Hill’. My English name is Marlon Kelly. I am from Rockyford, SD, which is located on the Pine Ridge Indian reservation. My mother’s name is Janet Steele-Kelly and my father’s name is David Kelly. I am the oldest of three children. I am a graduate of RED CLOUD INDIAN SCHOOL.

I am a full time Lakota singing teacher and Lakota studies aide. I am here to teach the youth how to sing Lakota, contemporary, and old pow wow songs. I am also going to teach them prayer, ceremony, and other songs. I am here to teach them the meanings of the words that will be said in the songs. I grew up singing at pow wows. I first began to sing when I first started talking and have been singing to this generation ever since. I had many mentors who helped me through the years. I am here to help the youth bring our culture back. It seems to be dying down. So I am here to bring the culture and language back. Thanks to all the staff and parents for letting me teach the students. Pilamayelo.