Three local students among St. Joseph’s Indian School Graduates at Chamberlain High School

(Chamberlain, S.D.) – Three students from the Oglala Sioux Tribe and Rosebud Sioux Tribe are among 10 seniors supported by St. Joseph’s Indian School who graduated from Chamberlain High School on Saturday, May 16, in the school’s competition gym.

The graduates include Donald “Gabe” Big Eagle III of Okemah, Earl DeNoyer of Mission and Latoya Stead of Rapid City. Each student is an enrolled member of their respective tribes and has been part of the St. Joseph’s Indian School residential program, which partners with Chamberlain High School to provide educational opportunities for Native American youth.

Graduation marks a significant milestone for these students, reflecting not only their hard work but also the unwavering support of their families.

During their time at St. Joseph’s, the students participated in activities such as basketball, football, Powwows, drum group, Native American Club and leadership opportunities while building lasting friendships and cultural connections.

Big Eagle, who has attended St. Joseph’s since sixth grade, participated in basketball, football, Powwows, drum group, explorers and Beta Club. He said some of his favorite memories include fishing trips with Sheehy Home and the relationships he built during his time at St. Joseph’s.

Following graduation, Big Eagle plans to take a gap year and save for college.

DeNoyer, who joined St. Joseph’s during his sophomore year, participated in basketball and said some of his favorite memories include meeting his houseparents and building friendships with staff and fellow students.

“Truly finding myself as a Native American individual and finding what I need to do to become a better person for myself and others is what I’m most proud of,” DeNoyer said.

After graduation, he plans to attend Lake Area Technical College to pursue a medical degree and help others.

Stead has attended St. Joseph’s since sixth grade and participated in basketball, volleyball and Native American Club. She said she is most proud of learning more about her culture and becoming more independent throughout her time at St. Joseph’s.

After graduation, Stead is considering trade school in Rapid City, Western Dakota Technical College or entering the workforce.

“We are incredibly proud of each of these students and the determination they’ve shown to reach this milestone,” said Robyn Knecht, executive director of child services at St. Joseph’s Indian School. “Graduation is a powerful accomplishment, and it represents not only their hard work, but also the strength of their families, cultures and communities that support them.”

The remaining graduates supported by St. Joseph’s Indian School include Armand “Tre” Comes Flying III of Pierre, Delante

Charger of Lower Brule, Ava Appel of Wagner, Kimimila Fallis of Fort Thompson, Shayla Flute of Chamberlain, Kansas Honomichl Rouse of Marty and Jamison Rouse-Big Eagle of Wagner.

St. Joseph’s Indian School supports Native American students through a holistic approach that emphasizes academic success, cultural identity and personal development. Through its partnership with Chamberlain High School, students are able to pursue their education while benefiting from a supportive residential environment.

As the Class of 2026 moves forward, these graduates carry with them the skills, resilience and sense of community developed during their time at St. Joseph’s.

The post Three local students among St. Joseph’s Indian School Graduates at Chamberlain High School first appeared on Native Sun News Today.

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