“It is really hard to describe this trip,” said Prescott sophomore Miles Malm. “But if I had to pick a word it would be incredible.” 

It was 25 years ago when Prescott High School students first traveled to the Lac Du Flambeau Indian Reservation to learn about the history, culture, and government of the people of the northern Wisconsin Tribal Nation. Since then 410 PHS students have traveled to the community to learn first-hand from native people.

“Learning this way is so much better than learning from a textbook,” said sophomore Tylar Whaley. “Being able to talk with Ojibwa people to learn about their culture was really powerful. I hope to come back here and visit in the future.”

During the four-day visit students visited schools, played lacrosse, and learned from tribal educators and cultural experts. Students toured important cultural sites, were given demonstrations on how to collect birch bark, harvest wild rice, and to harvest and smoke white fish. 

“We were busy the entire time,” said senior Ken Ryan. “There just is no down time and you are constantly learning. Having an opportunity to hear the personal stories of the people and how important the culture is to them today was really inspiring.”

It wasn’t only Prescott students participating in the unique place-based learning experience. Wauwatosa West social studies teacher Chris Lazarski and his son joined the Prescott contingent for two days.

“I had heard about the trip and wanted to see if this was something I would like to do with my students and what an outstanding program it is,” said Lazarski. “The purpose of my visit was to shadow the program to learn how I might do something similar at my school and Prescott students are being provided with an unmatched, unrivaled and high quality educational experience unlike any other I have seen in my 25 years of teaching.”

Lazarski’s thoughts were echoed by the students tenfold.

“It was so much fun and so interesting,” said senior Owen Nei. “Camping, listening to the drum group, and participating in discussions were great. I plan on coming back in the future.”

“It’s hard to put into words all the things you do, the people you meet, and everything you learn during the four days,” said sophomore Emma Schmitz. “Everyone we met was so nice and willing to share their stories with us and I know all of us really appreciated the trust all the tribal members gave to us.” 

Lilly Hillebrand agreed. “It didn’t matter who we were talking to or what questions we asked, they treated us so well and answered all of our questions. I understand why people like coming up to the Lac Du Flambeau.”

“I have a deep respect for the Prescott School District who has sustained their dedication and commitment to creating such an impactful educational experience for their students and I applaud Prescott High School and the Prescott School District for their unwavering support and dedication to this outstanding program,” said Lazarski.

“Prescott High School is the gold standard for First Nations Education for Wisconsin High Schools,” said Dr. Brian Jackson. “To sustain this program for 25 years takes a great deal of commitment and a willingness to become learners and listeners on our reservation. We are very grateful to the relationship our tribal nation has with the Prescott School District.”