Get the Facts
The Catholic Indian boarding schools of the past were part of a broader “boarding school initiative” that sought to erase Native identity. Children were removed from their families, forbidden to speak their Native languages, stripped of cultural traditions and too often subjected to neglect or abuse. This system caused deep and lasting consequences – separating generations from their heritage and families and leaving wounds that are still felt today. The harm was profound.
In recent years, reports of possible unmarked graves at former boarding school sites across North America prompted renewed attention to the painful history of these institutions and their impact on Native communities. In 2022, an independent investigation examined institutional records and the grounds of our school campuses. The final report found no evidence of unmarked graves, but the investigation acknowledged the broader legacy of boarding schools that too often disrespected Native children’s cultures and languages.
We recognize this painful history, and we take our responsibility to provide a safe, nurturing environment for children today very seriously. At St. Labre, we strive to create a safe environment where Native American children are respected, heard and empowered to achieve their dreams. Honoring the truth allows us to better partner with our communities, our students and their families – now and in the future.
At St. Labre, cultural preservation is woven into daily life through classroom learning, traditions and community experiences. Throughout the year, students celebrate their identity – including during Native American Week – through drumming, beading, storytelling and dancing that honor the rich cultures of the Northern Cheyenne and Crow Nations. 66% of the staff and administration are also Native American. By integrating culture into the classroom and daily life, we strive to ensure that students thrive both academically and spiritually, rooted in who they are.
St. Labre is more than a school – it’s a close-knit community that invests in the future and well-being of every child, surrounding them with care and support. Too many of our students experience challenges right from the start of their little lives, including food insecurity, economic hardship, systemic barriers and instability at home. But they share a common desire to learn and need access to resources to achieve success inside and outside of the classroom. Every child here deserves these opportunities – and we are committed to helping them achieve a future that is Proud, Prosperous and Free.
In Their Words
See what our students are saying about their St. Labre experience.
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“St. Labre is different from other schools I have attended. In other schools, the teachers were, well, teachers. Here, they are my friends. I feel like I’m part of one big family at St. Labre.”
— Chontay
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“I am very happy about my education. The obstacles I had to overcome and achieve to be successful were difficult, but I pushed myself through it. Getting my education means a lot to me and makes me feel like I have a purpose in life.”
— Cyllene
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"Being proud of where we come from and prosperous opportunities to help our future by getting an education, and free to be ourselves, not hiding our cultural identity."
— Katie
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“I am a proud student of St. Labre. I am proud that St. Labre has given me the chance to get an education. St. Labre has made me grow into a better student. They have changed my life. At St. Labre, you have better opportunities at school and life.”
— Solan
Student photographs used on this page may depict current or former students of St. Labre and are not necessarily the individuals associated with the quotes displayed.
FAQs
No. Students attending St. Labre come from many different religious backgrounds and beliefs. At no time does St. Labre force children, parents or staff to convert to Catholicism, however, everyone is asked to respect teachings of the faith and attend Masses designated for students and/or staff during school hours. Everyone, including students and their families, are free to practice their own faith and beliefs. The parents of our students willingly and freely send their children to St. Labre because of the values that are taught and the quality of the education they receive.
St. Labre takes the “both-and” approach of inculturation. For example, at Mass, cedar is burned instead of incense; tribal elders bless the priests, who in turn bless all of us; petitions are read in Cheyenne and Crow; and at our all-campus Mass celebrations, students, who are in the processional, offering of the Gifts, and recessional, dress in tribal regalia.
As a school that is 94% donor-funded, we are able to provide tuition-free education to 100% of our students. This ensures every child has access to education, stability, and support, regardless of financial circumstances.
No, they are not. St. Labre is not an adoption agency. Additionally, the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 established guidelines and restrictions regarding the placement of Indian children. Native Americans of the Northern Cheyenne and Crow Tribes have close ties to their extended families. An aunt or uncle may be considered a mother or father; a 1st, 2nd or 3rd cousin may be considered a brother or sister. There are no true orphans in the Indian family structure.
Counseling services, safe adults they can confide in, strong peer communities, mentors, cultural grounding and consistent supportive relationships help students feel safe, respected and valued. All staff are required to have background checks and to complete an annual Safe Environment training.
St. Labre receives a partial reimbursement (about 33% of our actual cost) from the USDA for school meals program. Besides that, there is no funding from any church, casino or government entity. St. Labre is 94% donor-funded.
Parents and guardians are the primary decision-makers for their children and play a crucial role in their education at St. Labre. Most students live at home and attend school each day, while some stay in the dorm during the week and a small number who do not have a stable home live at Shiloh Youth Home. Teachers, administrators and staff maintain open communication with families and work closely with parents and guardians to support each student’s academic progress, wellbeing and success.
Visitors to our website can explore our programs, culture, blog and financials to learn more about how generosity strengthens opportunities for Native children and families.
Success You Can See
Students at St. Labre are thriving — supported academically, culturally, spiritually and personally. Enrollment is tuition-free for students who wish to attend. Families choose St. Labre for its well-rounded and culturally relevant curriculum that focuses not only on academics and character and faith formation, but also keeps students deeply connected to their heritage. The facts speak for themselves, and our students’ success reflects the strength of our approach.
of students graduate
of graduates enroll in higher education or vocational training
participate in cultural enrichment programs