MILLE LACS BAND CELEBRATES NEW EARLY EDUCATION AND HEAD START FACILITY
By Vivian LaMoore, Inaajimowin Staff
A long-awaited dream came to life on April 17, 2025, as the Mille Lacs Band community gathered in Hinckley to celebrate the opening of the new Early Education and Head Start facility. This bright, welcoming space now stands ready to nurture the youngest Band members as they take their first steps on their educational journey.
The celebration began with an invocation and blessing, setting the tone for a day filled with gratitude, pride, and hope. Chief Executive Virgil Wind, District II Representative Wendy Merrill, District III Representative Harry Davis, former District III Representative Wally St. John, Commissioner of Education Raina Killspotted, Early Education Director Nancy Saboo, District III Coordinator Shana Aubid, and many others shared a meal with community members to honor the moment.
Representative Davis spoke movingly about sharing the vision of a facility like this with the former Commissioner of Education, the late Joyce Shingobe. He spoke of the decades of perseverance and hard work that brought the vision for this facility to life, giving thanks to all who helped make it possible. "This is a dream our District III community has carried for a long time," he said. And today, it stands before us.
The new center will serve children ages 0 to 3, with each classroom hosting up to eight young learners. Here, children will receive a strong, supportive start through the Head Start Early Education program.
Chief Executive Wind gave a heartfelt speech of gratitude. "Let us all remember when we invest in our children, we are investing in the strength of our sovereignty, the power of our culture, and most importantly, the heart of our Band."
Commissioner Killspotted also gave words of thanks to all who helped make the dream a reality. She praised the MLEE team’s dedication, giving special recognition to Saboo, Aubid, and all the staff who pour their hearts into the care and education of the children. “It takes a team to raise and educate our children," she said. "Chi Miigwech to our MLEE team — they are truly number one in my book."
As the doors open, hope and pride fill the air. The future is bright for the Mille Lacs Band’s littlest learners, and this new facility stands as a powerful reminder of what the community can accomplish together.
MLEE is currently welcoming applications for both students and teachers. Interested parents can contact Family Support Specialist, Tricia Thomas, at 320-532-7590 extension 4402. Teacher applicants can apply through the Mille Lacs Band Job Listing portal.
