As part of their celebration of Native American Heritage Month, Sara Harp Minter Elementary 2nd graders crafted their very own dreamcatchers.

Their 2nd grade social studies curriculum encouraged exploration of the Creek and Cherokee Native American tribes, which were two of the most important Native American Tribes in Georgia. It also highlighted the importance of Sequoyah, who was one of the most influential figures in Cherokee history.

After reading the story “Grandmother’s Dreamcatcher,” which highlights an important element of Native American culture and the relationship between a young girl and her grandmother, students were supplied with paper plates, colorful yarn, beads, feathers, and markers to create their own dreamcatcher.

“We did this together as a class, but the students were told to express their artistic ability and their personality to make their dreamcatcher unique, just as many Native Americans did,” said teacher DaVonni’ Pugh.

Pugh’s students really dug into their studies of Native American culture. They discussed an important Native American from the past or present each day by reading mini biography posters displayed in our classroom each day.

“I wanted my students to truly grasp how many Native Americans have made a difference in our county, from education, government, the arts, sports, science, activist, inventors, etc.,” said Pugh. “I believe my students walked away with great appreciation for the Native American culture.”