Help Dusty achieve Fluency & Montessori goals
Donation protected
My name is Dusty Lee Nelson and I am an Oglala Lakota teacher from the Pine Ridge Reservation, in South Dakota and I have 3 children. I have been involved in Lakota language and cultural immersion efforts on my reservation for over 13 years as an immersion teacher, language advocate and practicing culture bearer. As I accumulate knowledge and skills I share them with my family and the youth I work with across Oceti Sakowin territory.
Back in May 2024, my job ended in an abrupt manner and my roommate moved out of my rental. I have been out of work for 3 months picking up contracts for Lakota Language events and such. Now that the summer is winding down and school will be starting, I am in the process of immediately transitioning back to St. Paul to start a new teaching position in a Montessori school.
My son also has a unique opportunity to go to the same Montessori school that has offered me this position. The Montessori Center of Minnesota community has warmly extended an invitation for me and my familly to learn about what it means to be part of a Montessori community. In addition to the job I will also have the opportunity to complete my college degree.
This once in a lifetime opportunity will allow me to obtain experience that will lend to the making of a future D/Lakota Childrens House and create access for children of pine ridge reservation in Montessori education.I hope to raise enough money so that I can focus on my education and my children’s education.
I generally have 2-3 jobs and a roommate to make ends meet, however with the help of this gofundme I hope to focus on growing my skills in teaching and continuing to learn the Montessori method, teach and speaking Lakota throughout the year with my children and community.
1/2 of rental bills: $15,000
Relocation Travel expenses: $5,000
I have been able to continue to build myself as a future fluent speaker and educator for my community by the support of both the outer world and my friends and family on reservations. I am always grateful for the help I receive when I am in need. I hope to one day repay the support by giving back to the children through language , culture, learning and all through the love I have for my people.
Pilamayayapi. (Thank you all)
Back in May 2024, my job ended in an abrupt manner and my roommate moved out of my rental. I have been out of work for 3 months picking up contracts for Lakota Language events and such. Now that the summer is winding down and school will be starting, I am in the process of immediately transitioning back to St. Paul to start a new teaching position in a Montessori school.
My son also has a unique opportunity to go to the same Montessori school that has offered me this position. The Montessori Center of Minnesota community has warmly extended an invitation for me and my familly to learn about what it means to be part of a Montessori community. In addition to the job I will also have the opportunity to complete my college degree.
This once in a lifetime opportunity will allow me to obtain experience that will lend to the making of a future D/Lakota Childrens House and create access for children of pine ridge reservation in Montessori education.I hope to raise enough money so that I can focus on my education and my children’s education.
I generally have 2-3 jobs and a roommate to make ends meet, however with the help of this gofundme I hope to focus on growing my skills in teaching and continuing to learn the Montessori method, teach and speaking Lakota throughout the year with my children and community.
1/2 of rental bills: $15,000
Relocation Travel expenses: $5,000
I have been able to continue to build myself as a future fluent speaker and educator for my community by the support of both the outer world and my friends and family on reservations. I am always grateful for the help I receive when I am in need. I hope to one day repay the support by giving back to the children through language , culture, learning and all through the love I have for my people.
Pilamayayapi. (Thank you all)
Organizer
Dusty Lee Nelson
Organizer
Pine Ridge, SD