Overview

Who We Are

Circle of Life Academy is a tribally controlled kindergarten through grade 12 school serving the White Earth Indian Reservation in northwest Minnesota.

Circle of Life Academy provides a culturally-based education for Native American students, primarily students from the White Earth Ojibwe community. All teachers and staff hold appropriate licensure and support student learning through high-quality instruction.

Our Mission

Circle of Life Academy is immersed in Anishinabe Mino-Bimaadiziwin for our children and community while providing the highest quality of education.

Our Educational Approach

Circle of Life Academy integrates Ojibwe language, culture, and values into daily instruction. Every student participates in daily Ojibwe culture classes, and educators incorporate cultural knowledge across all grade levels. The curriculum includes Anishinaabemowin (Ojibwe language) and Mino-Bimaadiziwin (traditional ways of life) to support academic learning and cultural identity.

Culture and Community

The school actively supports traditional Anishinaabe practices and community events. Students participate in activities such as powwows, round dances, wild rice harvesting, maple (sugar bush) tapping, and drum groups. These experiences connect classroom learning to lived cultural traditions and reinforce the school’s commitment to preserving and honoring White Earth heritage.