After School Program restarts in Flandreau

The Wakpa Ipaksan Dakodiapi Afterschool Program is back for families in the region.
Its been years since the Flandreau Santee Sioux Wicoicaga Community Center last hosted the resource for local youth. In fact, the program hasnt been active since closing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, the team and the tribe are excited to see kids gather again.
Programming kicked off Sept. 9 and will run through the school year. Organizers say theyre looking for more families to join in.
Monday through Thursday, right after school, parents can drop off their children for sessions that include Dakota language and culture, art, Native recreation and wellness, exercise, and lessons about foods that encourage healthier lifestyles. Children must be picked up by 5 p.m.
The program isnt limited to Wakpa Ipaksan youth any family interested in community support are welcome.
Alongside the afterschool program, the Wakpa Ipaksan Dakota Language Program has also returned for another round of sessions. Classes are currently being held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 67 p.m. at the community center.
Even if you dont know any of the language, just come in and learn, said cultural team member, Marilyn Allen.
Language instructor Dusty Beaulieu leads the sessions, working to grow local knowledge of Dakota culture and language. There are no age restrictions, and all are welcome.