There are staff members in the Anchorage School District who serve in just as important roles as teachers, especially for students experiencing significant life events. We can provide funds when they identify students who have pressing expenses. Our support allows them to purchase items so that the students receive the help they need.
One group we often interact with is Student Support Specialists. Amber Arnaqulluk Shields works in the Indigenous Education program at Bartlett High School. She connects Alaska Native and American Indian students with opportunities to create indigenous arts and crafts and reinforce their cultural values. Since beginning this job in August 2022, Amber’s made a difference in many students’ lives.
It’s easy to see why. She has a calming presence and gentle smile. “I grew up in rural Alaska,” Amber says, “but we moved to Anchorage when I was in high school.” She felt alone, though, noting, “I always wished to find a friend who was from rural Alaska too.” It caused her to want to work with teens who had experiences like hers.
Walking into Amber’s office is like entering a sacred space. It has soft lighting, a sweet scent, beautiful art and lots of crafting materials. A person naturally relaxes. Here, Amber empowers students to make art that matters to them, which causes them to attend school. They do everything from learning traditional dancing and beading to making qaspeq, moccasins and fry bread. These projects require working during lunch or after school since they don’t have a dedicated space—and they don’t mind.
Students often find out about Amber’s program though talk around campus. “Once I got involved, it made me feel proud about who I am,” Dorothy says. She loves Native Youth Olympics, so joining the traditional dance troupe was a good fit. “We’ve been asked to perform at S.A.V.E, APU’s Indigenous People Day, ASD’s Cultural Night and even the Far North Fashion Show,” says Dorothy.
As Amber encourages students, like Dorothy, they often confide in her about issues they’re facing. “There was a kid who was sleeping on the floor, so I got ahold of United Way,” Amber recounts. “They helped us get a bed, bedding, blankets and food for the student too.” Students have received gift cards to purchase school supplies and even assistance to pay their families’ rent.
Dorothy and Amber’s interactions demonstrate their closeness. Dorothy displays the qaspeq that she’s been sewing. Her work is gorgeous—purple material with white-and-gold edging. “I just have to finish the sleeves and some edging,” she says.
“And fix the back!” Amber ribs Dorothy, laughing, and Dorothy laughs too.
“Yeah, yeah,” Dorothy says as a shy smile spreads across her face. “I know.”
Agatha John-Shields says
Keep up the great work. Your dad would have so proud of you. I am sure he sees you and smiles his contagious smile as yours. Kenkamken Amber. You make me a one, proud momma!