Revitalizing Native languages of the Colville Reservation
through immersion schools
ʔaluspuʔús
At Waterfall School, core academics are taught and classes are designed to strengthen the cultural identity of our students. We incorporate the Montessori approach of child-centered learningwhich is based on self-directed activity, hands-on learning and collaborative play. We also utilize the method of Total Physical Response- a stress-free, fun and effective way to learn a language. It has been researched and applied for more than 50 years. A significant amount of time is spent outdoors experiencing our studies first hand through the natural world.
It is our goal to provide quality education that meets the needs of each student, from pre-school to graduation. A support system is developed to insure that that student needs are met from preschool to their first steps out into the world.
We encourage family involvment in our activities. We have numerous field trips and summer activities and welcome your participation.
We also invite you to attend our community language classes so that you can converse with fluent speaking elders as well as our emerging speakers.
Our School Year
Cultural Values
Creating fluent Native speakers in a culturally appropriate school setting.
FOR PARENTS/
GUARDIANS
"I truly love hearing our children speaking our beautiful language. I can't wait to see them blossom as they get older into our future teachers.
I pray the school continues to flourish and teach our old ways."
~Tim Erb
məlqnups iʔ‿mistəms
(Golden Eagle’s dad)
"When my girl comes home from school and speaks in our language, she fills my heart with complete happiness knowing that she is learning something of extreme value to our people. The school pedagogy is helping x̌ʷnámx̌ʷnam grow in a confident, loving, family-oriented, respectful, and traditional way. I am excited for the years to come and to watch my girl grow in such a way that only a language immersion school can provide."
~Shandy Abrahamson
x̌ʷnámx̌ʷnam iʔ‿swawásaʔs
(Hummingbird's auntie)
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School Year - September through Mid June
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Summer Session in July
"Our little people need to know who they are, and the language will help them discover how powerful they truly are."
~D. Stanger
We want new families and the school to learn as much as possible about one another. Just as it is important for you to find the right school for your child, we want to feel confident that your child can benefit from the immersion school experience as well.
You have already taken this first step by visiting this website. To learn more- please call Melissa Campobosso at 422.5653 or contact her by email. Below you will find more information about our admissions cycle and process.
1- Complete the New Student Application
2- Complete and submit the Transportation Request Form
Returning Students
Complete and submit the enrollment packet
Since we are a small school that provides individualized attention to our students, we have a limited number of openings each year.
Parents are encouraged to begin the admissions/enrollment process as soon as possible.