There has never been a more important time for Indigenous-led education. Today Native students face severe achievement gaps–because western education systems fail to acknowledge or honor Indigenous history or experience. But we know Native students thrive when their educational experiences reflect their realities and celebrate their Indigenous identity.
Located on the ancestral homelands of the Lakota people, the Oceti Sakowin Community Academy is at the forefront of that movement–creating a new model for Indigeous education that empowers students to be “unapologetically Indigenous.”
OSCA is an initiative of NDN Collective and the NACA Inspired Schools Network.
Our Mission
Through a curriculum that is grounded in the thought and philosophy of Lakota culture, our mission is to provide an inclusive and diverse education that centers on rigorous, culturally-relevant instruction in a Lakota, community-centered framework.
Our Vision
We envision a world where our students–and all Indigenous youth–experience a deep sense of belonging, higher engagement and motivation–leading to improved academic outcomes, holistic wellness, strong cultural identities and deep personal confidence.
Our work is grounded by four core values in Lakota culture:
Woksape (Wisdom): Rigorous academics grounded in the understanding and ancestral teachings of the Oceti Sakowin culture.
Wowacintanka (Fortitude): Student centered learning rooted in the language and culture recognizing each student as a leader in their own right.
Woohitika (Bravery): Empowering and recognizing parents and community as the first sovereign educators.
Wocantognake (Generosity): Connectedness to the land and community.