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Libertyville students learn about Native American heritage

Butterfield School in Libertyville recently held an American Indian Heritage Cultural Celebration.

Weylin Webster of the Seneca and Ottawa tribes performed traditional dances while his 10-year-old daughter, Mizhiike Webster, played the drum.

The group is affiliated with the American Indian Center in Chicago. During lunch at the school, Webster provided a brief summary and explanation of the costume he wore, and talked about each dance he performed.

The assembly was part of a Partners for Excellence in Education mini-grant for a program to help students understand and value diversity within the school.

Teacher Kim Jenkins, along with Principal Dr. Candice Kehoe and Assistant Principal Kristi Patterson created a program called Appreciating Culture at Butterfield School to bring in special cultural performances at lunchtime, to build student acceptance of other backgrounds.

Butterfield students dance along during Weylin Webster's performance. Courtesy of Libertyville Elementary School District 70
Weylin Webster of the Seneca and Ottawa tribes, affiliated with the American Indian Center in Chicago, recently gave a presentation on his heritage at Butterfield School. Courtesy of Libertyville Elementary School District 70
Weylin Webster explained the significance of his outfit and each dance he performed to Butterfield students. Courtesy of Libertyville Elementary School District 70
Weylin's 10-year-old daughter, Mizhiike Webster, accompanied her father on the drum during his presentation. Courtesy of Libertyville Elementary School District 70
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