Moccasin Class Morphs into a Regalia Legacy

In the summer of 2024, what started as a simple moccasin-making class quickly transformed into a full regalia-making course! For many students, this was more than just a class—it was time to explore and celebrate their culture.

Meeting two Saturdays each month, students were guided by three dedicated instructors through the intricate creation processes. The work was intense and rewarding, with students crafting beautiful moccasins, detailed beadwork and full outfits for various dance styles: grass, jingle dress and fancy shawl.

As Native American / Indigenous Education Coordinator Sam Weaver shared, there is a lot of significance involved. "A lot goes into making regalia," she noted. "In the jingle dress, for example, each jingle is made with a prayer in each jingle, so when you dance, prayers go out to whoever you are dancing for. Each jingle is shaped individually and attached to the dress."

This dedication, care and intention were evident in every piece the students completed. The process was a profound act of honoring tradition and pouring spirit into every stitch and bead. Throughout the process, students gained new skills, as well as pride and confidence. They poured hours into these projects, often creating their first-ever regalia outfits.

The highlight of the entire class was the time spent together and the sense of community and bonding that developed over the past year. It was a supportive and positive environment that everyone looked forward to. At the final meeting, students were excited to show their families and, most importantly, dance with each other in the outfits they created.

The culmination of all this hard work will be seen at the upcoming RHS Powwow, where many of these students plan to wear their finished regalia and dance in their first powwow!

A new regalia course will be starting later this winter. Keep an eye out for sign-up information and don't miss your chance to be part of this incredible, community-focused cultural experience!

Left to right: Ted (RMS), Ryan (parent), Oliver (RHS), Sam (parent), Miikawaadizi (preschool), Travis (PreK), Jennie Kappenman (instructor), Nora (R-STEM), Jamie (parent), Rocco (R-STEM), Cynthia (parent), Tatsuo (RMS), Angela Kappenman (instructor), Janell (parent), Joachim (R-STEM) and Liz Sergent (instructor).