K-12 Salish Language and Spokane Culture Overview

The Wellpinit School District believes that our language is meant to be lived—expressed through daily greetings, laughter, and song. Our program honors the memory of our ancestors while preparing a path for future generations.

Salish Language Goals

Our focus is on oral language development, comprehension, and student confidence. Using "I CAN" statements, students take ownership of their learning by:

  • Greeting others with respect
  • Supporting classmates and using the language every day
  • Singing tribal songs with pride

Spokane Culture and Arts Learning is experiential and collaborative, integrating language with the heart of our community.

The curriculum includes:

  • Spokane Tribal stories and history to connect students to their heritage.
  • Drumming, singing, and dancing to engage students through music and movement.
  • Traditional crafting and beading to reinforce cultural knowledge and skill integration.
  • Student Success

We prioritize meaningful growth and oral proficiency over high-stakes testing. Students demonstrate their learning through authentic participation, performance-based assessments, and the application of skills in real-world contexts. By working together, we ensure our language and culture continue to thrive. For more information go to spokanelanguageculture.com.

Living the Salish Language: Our Past, Present, and Future
Living the Salish Language: Our Past, Present, and Future