Elders provide wisdom, encouragement, and connection

Throughout the T3 Alaska Summer Programs, elders played an important role in helping students connect their learning to community, culture, and place. Their presence provided encouragement, stories, and perspectives that reminded students that their voice is important because it is rooted in the knowledge and experiences of their unique village perspective, culture and history. From sharing meals and conversations to attending final presentations, elders created moments of connection and reflection.

During the second summer program, students visited the community of Minto and generated a map for the village council. Students explored how technology can help tell the story of a community. Using drones, students captured aerial images of the landscape and learned how those images could be transformed into detailed 3D maps. The Minto mapping project combined technical skills with place-based learning, giving students the opportunity to document their community while thinking about how technology can support future projects. This map will be used in future decisions on how to expand, provide access and plan for the future of the village.

Elders supported students as they prepared their final presentations, offering thoughtful feedback, and reminding students that their voices matter. Their encouragement helped students recognize themselves not only as learners, but as future leaders who can contribute to their communities.

The programs concluded with a meaningful exchange as elders gifted students beaded necklaces — a gesture of connection and care. The gifts represented the relationships built during the program and served as a reminder that the knowledge, confidence, and experiences students gained would travel with them back to their communities.