Overview

At Sherman Indian High School, we focus on creating a supportive, vibrant community that celebrates cultural heritage, promotes personal growth and builds academic success. Through various programs, we provide students with opportunities to connect with their Native traditions and the broader school community.

Academic Excellence and College Readiness

Our comprehensive academic program prepares students for post-secondary education through a range of specialized programs and college preparatory courses:

College Readiness Programs: Advanced Placement (AP) courses, AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) and dual enrollment opportunities with Riverside Community College and California Indian Nations College allow students to earn college credits while still in high school.
University of California Approved Courses: Through the Early Academic Outreach Program, students can receive additional guidance on coursework and admission to the University of California system.
Career and Technical Education (CTE) Pathways: CTE pathways in culinary arts, health careers, plant science, animal science, public safety, construction, automotive/electricity and computers culminate in field-specific internships, providing students hands-on experience.

In addition to core academics, we offer specialized courses in Native Studies (9th grade) and Tribal Government (12th grade) that deepen students’ understanding of their heritage. Elective courses in art, music and physical education allow students to explore their interests and talents.

Cultural Enrichment and Engagement

Students at Sherman Indian High School are immersed in a rich cultural environment where they can learn, experience and celebrate their Indigenous heritage. We offer multiple cultural activities, including:

Language and Traditional Crafts: Study groups for Indigenous languages, traditional arts like beading and basketry, and crafts such as embroidery and macramé are regularly available.
Cultural Events and Celebrations: Students participate in and help organize events such as the Native Pride Fashion Show, Indian Day Celebration and annual powwow. These events serve as platforms for cultural exchange and community involvement.
Traditional Practices: With activities like fireside storytelling, Talking Circles and traditional field games, students can engage in practices that honor their heritage.
Guest Speakers and Workshops: The school hosts Native American guest speakers and offers workshops in hand drum making, environmental justice and Indigenous fashion.

Support Services and Residential Life

Sherman Indian High School offers extensive support services, including college counseling, FAFSA/application workshops, academic tutoring and a student bank to support financial management. Holistic health services are available through the on-campus Indian Health Service clinic, with Home Living Counseling Tech support available for homesickness, grief, substance abuse and personal decision-making.

The residential life program includes structured evening and weekend activities such as tutoring, cultural programs at the Clarke Cultural Center, and recreational opportunities at the gym, recreation center and weight room. Off-campus trips to local beaches, museums and theme parks offer additional bonding experiences.

The Sherman Indian High School Museum

A resourceful hub for cultural and historical education, the Sherman Indian High School Museum provides students access to curated exhibits and resources on Indigenous history, including topics such as Native plant uses, traditional values and the history of boarding schools. Students and classes are encouraged to schedule tours or use the museum for research, allowing them to deepen their cultural knowledge.

Connection to Community and Personal Development

Our students are encouraged to participate actively in the larger community, with opportunities to attend off-campus cultural events, workshops and social outings. Faculty and staff are also invited to share in cultural activities, fostering a sense of unity and shared learning among the entire school community. This environment helps students develop a strong cultural identity and prepare for future challenges with confidence and resilience.

For more details, please contact Sherman Indian High School at 951-276-6325.