PULASARAQ: Reinforcing Strong Yup’ik Minds
Kami Moore, Assiingaq Janet Johnson & Yurrliq Nita Rearden
Through the Kayuli grant partnership AASB and the Lower Yukon School District are excited to share the Pulasaraq curriculum, written by Yurrliq Nita Rearden and Assiingaq Janet Johnson in collaboration with committee members.
Many students struggle in their lives. In the Yup’ik culture, there are pathways that guide Yup’ik people through the toughest encounters, trails, and decision making.
PULASARAQ means a well-traveled pathway of our ancestors. It shows us how best to be a human being, guiding with values and teachings that can change our lives. Using the traditional teachings and values of our ancestors, PULASARAQ works to reconnect students with Yup’ik language, values, and culture.
PULASARAQ comprises five age-and-developmentally appropriate grade bands for students in grades K-2, 3-5, 6-8, 9-10 and 11-12. The curriculum provides teachings and activities based on Yup’ik values around the themes of Family, Subsistence, Native Youth Olympics and Curukaq.