Image provided by: State Library of Oregon; Salem, OR
About The Chemawa American (Chemawa, Or.) 19??-current | View Entire Issue (May 1, 1964)
THEN— THEY CAME TO CHEMAWA FORMER GRADUATES— NOW STAFF February 25, 1880, Forest Grove, Oregon. Eighteen students, a teacher, two aides and O Wilkinson (detailed U. S. Army) met in three log buildings. Thus Chemawa Indian School was born. David Brewer and a work crew of boys arrived five miles north of Salem, Oregon, on land donated by the State of Oregon They cut trees and built log buildings to replace those which had burned at For est Grove. A few weeks later, the students arrived. Many walked, a few rode in wagons and the youngest rode the train. Chemawa rose from the ashes of fire to continue. NOW— 1963-64 From the northern tip of the North American con tinent and from the southwest areas of the United States, they came by air and by bus. Navaho and Alaskan, 875 strong, they come. WHY? “I want an education. Education is important,” most would answer. What is this education which Chemawa has offered thousands of young Indian men and women through the 84 years of her existence? Chemawa is interested in each student as a person, his present aspirations and hopes for the future. Chemawa is interested in the whole students; educa tional development, health and well being; choosing a life work; character and citizenship. Upon entering, a Chemawa student is housed in a comfortable room in one of five dormitories. Pleas ant recreational rooms and areas, quiet study rooms and modern conveniences are provided for student use. A well trained guidance staff is available for counseling, acting as away-from-home parents. The well staffed cafeteria under the direction of a dietic ian Drovides attractive, wholesome meals Two re creational leaders help students plan and carry out worthwhile leisure time activities as well as an active athletic program and arts and crafts work. Under the direction of religious leaders services of many faiths are provided. The educational staff welcomes each student as an individual. The program is planned to aid each student go as far as he is able and wishes in the edu cational program. Students may choose to prepare for college and pursue a preparatory course with high school graduation; he may choose to explore various vocational areas as preparation for more ad vanced technical training, or a job. Well equipped shops, a large farm and dairy are available for his use during the training program. The clinic and hos pital operated by the Public Health Service and den tist care for his physical needs. Specialized services are available in the area as well as the services of a full time social worker. Located in a metropolitan area in a rich farming center, Chemawa offers students many opportunities for Saturday and summer employment. During the fall harvest season there is need for platoon work. In addition to platoon, work there are openings in home service. An average of 100 girls are employed each Saturday. Not only does this give the students work experience, an opportunity to earn money, but also to develop friendly relationships within the com munity. Many boys find work in various activities. If willing to work most students have an opportunity to earn money for their needs. For students finishing their schooling, several choices are offered. A full time placement officer will aid them in going on Relocation; enroll for ad vanced technical training or job placement. College bound students have available loans and grants which will enable them to follow their interests in higher education. Many Chemawa students have chosen, after grad uation and training, to return to work with their own people.
