Dakota Language Camp

Hands-on language learning

Learn about Dakota language and life ways from local experts.

When: June 21, 22, and 23, 2011.
Time: 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Where: Pond Dakota Mission Park 401 East 104th Street, Bloomington, MN 55420.
Ages: K - 6, Parents encouraged to attend.
Fee: $40. Not eligible for fee assistance, but a limited number of scholarships may be available (more information about scholarships below).

A unique approach to language learning for both Dakota and non-Dakota children, the Dakota Language Camp provides an introduction to one of Minnesota's native languages. No classrooms here – all learning is through hands-on experiences of traditional Dakota games, crafts, songs, dancing and foods. Students will participate in setting up a tipi, then go inside to learn how it was used and furnished. As Dakota culture is rooted in the land, many words are learned during nature walks on the beautiful trails of Pond Dakota Mission Park, situated on the Minnesota River. Teachers with Dakota ancestry will also explain Dakota values and history.

This camp is held in the 40-acre Pond Dakota Mission Park, where the historic Pond House is located. The house was built by Rev. Gideon Pond, who with his brother Samuel, were the first to write down the Dakota language in 1834.

The Dakota Language camp is a joint venture of Bloomington Parks and Recreation and the Dakota Language Department of the University of Minnesota, which creates the program content and provides experienced teaching staff.

Learn more about the language camp

Check out the details on page 12 of the following Summer Programs Brochure.

Summer Programs 2011 – page 12 (1.1MB, 16-page PDF)

Want to register?

Avoid the lines and register ONLINE. Click here for our Online Progam Services page!

Download our Summer Programs registration form (172KB, 2-page PDF)
Read about how to register on page 3 of the Summer Programs Brochure.

Scholarship information

All registrations must include full payment, made by the registrant, of the $40 registration fee.

A limited number of scholarships will be provided by the Pond Dakota Heritage Society. Scholarship application forms are available via the link below, or can be picked up the Parks and Recreation office at Bloomington Civic Plaza. Completed forms can be dropped off, mailed, or faxed to the Parks and Recreation office.

Dakota Language Camp 2011 scholarship application (64KB PDF)

Scholarships will be awarded by the Pond Dakota Heritage Society within 2 weeks of receipt of application. Scholarships will be paid directly to recipients by the Pond Dakota Heritage Society. Recipients will have to pay the full amount for the camp, independent of scholarships.

While registrants can wait to register for the language camp until after receiving a scholarship, they run the risk of having the camp registrations fill up. Applicants meeting the criteria will have a good chance to get a scholarship, but it they are not guaranteed and will be dependent on donations gathered by the Pond Dakota Heritage Society for funding the scholarships.

For more information, contact:

Mark Morrison, Recreation Supervisor
PH: 952-563-8693, TTY: 952-563-8740, FAX: 952-563-8715
E-mail: artsintheparks@ci.bloomington.mn.us