Chief Leschi School has established a drum and dance group to share our Native American culture with other cultures. This group represents our school with pride as they perform dances at other schools, communities events, special performances and many other types of public gatherings.

The elementary and the middle/high school have two different dance groups. In the middle school/high school dance group, there are 35 students and led by staff members Dawna Peterson and Harvey Whitford. The middle school practices singing and drumming twice a month. They also practice once a month on their dancing skills in preparation for the powwows that Chief Leschi School sponsors.

In the elementary, there are 40 students that participate in the drum and dance group. Unlike the older students, they get a chance to practice every day, during "Circle".

In order to participate in theChief Leschi drum and dance group, students are required to have their own dance outfit. If they don't have an outfit, an adult in the dance group will help them make an outfit. The main requirement to be in this dance group, is for the student to have the desire to dance and learn. Parents help out with transportation and help make the children's outfits. The supplies for making the drums, outfits and moccasins and other items were donated from our school and supporting parents.

The children learn how to sing Northwest coastal and powwow songs. They also learn the different dances that go along with these songs. Our main goal is to see that the children that attend Chief Leschi School get a chance to experience Native Ameircan culture. It is important that they retain the spirit of their ancestors within themselves through traditional songs and dances.

BENEFITS: Being in the drum and dance group, improves the self-esteem, pride and self-identity of the children who particpate. It also promotes parental involvment, as parents have the chance to help in making shawls, drums and outfits for the kids.