Monday, May 8, 2017 – Language immersion for student success
A school in Kotzebue has immersed elementary students in the Inupiaq language for more than 25 years. Before then, their exposure to the language in public school was limited to 20 minutes a day. We’ll talk to educators with Nikaitchuat Ilisagviat Immersion School and an Ojibwe language program about how emphasis on language helps students succeed.
Tuesday, May 9, 2017 – Development at the Grand Canyon
The Grand Canyon is considered a national treasure. It’s also sacred to many tribes. There are projects proposed to increase tourism dollars and create economic development for areas surrounding the canyon. The Grand Canyon Escalade would bring a river walk and gondola ride to the northeast corner of the canyon, located on the Navajo Nation. Supporters say the project will bring much-needed economic development. The opposition says the project will encroach on sacred areas and damage the environment. Would you take a tram ride into the Grand Canyon?
Wednesday, May 10, 2017 – Opioid addiction epidemic: who is at fault?
The Cherokee Nation faults several major drug companies and distributors for opioid addiction and overdose deaths among their members. Theirs is the first tribal lawsuit to combat the growing problems associated with prescription pain relievers. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are among the organizations that say opiate addiction is an epidemic.
Thursday, May 11, 2017 — Native Youth Olympics: NYO Games Alaska
About 500 young Native athletes from across Alaska gather every year to test strength, balance, agility and teamwork. The annual NYO (Native Youth Olympics) Games just wrapped up in Anchorage. In addition to acknowledging physical feats, the games also emphasize traditional subsistence activities and encourage academics.
Friday, May 12, 2017 — Why breast-feed?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all mothers breast-feed exclusively for a baby’s first six months. That’s because breast milk has long-lasting health benefits for both babies and mothers. Numbers are scarce, but one 2012 study reveals less than six out of ten Native American and Alaska Native mothers start breast-feeding. Most of those stop before the six month mark.
