The Beyond the Classroom Experience at the Shawnee Indian Mission is an interactive educational series that brings history, culture, and storytelling to life. Each session features engaging activities led by experts, including hands-on learning, demonstrations, and discussions. The series connects participants with Indigenous traditions, history, and perspectives in an immersive setting. Designed for all ages, Beyond the Classroom offers a unique opportunity to learn and experience history beyond textbooks.
May 17, 10 a.m.: I am Truly, presented by Pateisha Royal. Join us for an inspiring and joy-filled session as the vibrant and dynamic Pateisha Royal brings I Am Truly to life! This Beyond the Classroom Experience invites children to celebrate self-confidence, strength, and imagination through story time and hands-on fun. After the reading, participants will dive into engaging, interactive activities that reinforce the book’s empowering message. Perfect for curious minds and joyful hearts—don’t miss this opportunity to learn, play, and grow!
Pateisha Royal is a force for healing and justice — a bold voice, a gentle guide, and a fierce believer in the power of community. She’s an author, activist, Reiki healer, and creative soul who uses words to spark change and love to light the way.
From poetry to protest, from classrooms to campaigns, Pateisha stands for the kids, the dreamers, and the ones who’ve been told they can’t — reminding us all that we absolutely can. Pateisha fights for a world where every child feels safe, seen, and free to shine. As a guest of the Shawnee Indian Mission, she’s here to read, to vibe, and to spark something magical — because every child deserves a story that feels like home and a future that feels like freedom.
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September 6, 10 a.m.: My Powerful Hair — To kick-off our fall Beyond the Classroom series, our free youth programming, we will feature the children’s book, My Powerful Hair.
Our ancestors say our hair is our memories, our source of strength and power, a celebration of our lives. From Carole Lindstrom, author of the New York Times bestseller and Caldecott Medal winner We Are Water Protectors, and debut illustrator Steph Littlebird comes an empowering and healing celebration of hair and its significance across Indigenous cultures.
October 18, 10 a.m.: The First Thanksgiving — Free youth programming! We will explore the children’s book: “Keepunumuk: Weeâchumun’s Thanksgiving Story” by Danielle Greendeer [Wampanoag story of the first Thanksgiving and 3 sisters companion gardening]. Children will learn about the story, make a craft and even take a walk (weather permitting) to our own garden!
Our presenter will be Mary Grinter, a member of the Lenape Tribe who is also a descendent of students who attended the Mission.
November 1, 10 a.m.: Rock Your Mocs — For our last Beyond the Classroom program of the year, we will focus on the book, Rock Your Mocs, in coordination of the annual event. We will also have members of multiple tribes who will share their tribal customs and regalia to help show those attending the diversity within tribes.
This will be an amazing event for people of all ages to learn more about our Indigenous community members and this national movement.
***Rock Your Mocs has grown into a week-long celebration that takes place from November 12 to 18, with the original day being November 15. Indigenous Americans from all walks of life participate in Rock Your Mocs by wearing their mocs wherever they go, whether it is to school, work, or a special event.