About
Our Story and Community
St. Joseph’s Indian School has been part of the community since 1927, when the Priests of the Sacred Heart answered the call to serve Native American children. After searching for the right place, they found a welcoming home in Chamberlain, where the school could grow and thrive.
From the very beginning, our school has been guided by a mission to share God’s love with everyone. We believe in helping each student grow in every way—mind, body, heart, and spirit. Our caring approach is here to support you, remove obstacles, and help you discover your strengths.
Living and Growing Together
Each year, about 200 students call St. Joseph’s Indian School home. If you’re in grades 1 through 8, you’ll live and learn right here on campus. High school students live with us too while attending classes at Chamberlain High School. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to celebrate your culture and traditions while living in a caring, family-like home with other students and supportive houseparents.
Living on campus means becoming part of a family. Each home includes students in the same age group and caring houseparents who help everyone feel supported, safe, and cared for. You’ll share meals and snacks together, and everyone helps with daily chores to keep the home running smoothly.
Just as we care for our students, we care about their families too. We know family is an important part of every child’s success. When your family’s needs are supported, you can focus on learning, building friendships, and enjoying school life. St. Joseph’s is here to help connect your family with services and provide assistance whenever we can.
Our Mission
St. Joseph’s Indian School, an apostolate of the Congregation of the Priests of the Sacred Heart, partners with Native American children and families to educate for life – mind, body, heart and spirit.
Our Vision
Every Native American child lives an abundant life.
Our Core Values
St. Joseph’s Indian School upholds a set of core values reflecting our identity. These values guide our actions and our commitment to helping every student and family thrive.
Faith
We root our mission in God’s love, grounded in the Catholic faith and Native American spirituality
Stewardship
We honor all relationships and resources entrusted to us, including students, families, donors, and the environment.
Collaboration
We serve together, forming strong partnerships that enhance success and strengthen our shared mission.
Integrity
We uphold a model of ethical decision‑making, acting with honesty and responsibility.
Respect
We affirm the dignity of every person by welcoming diverse cultures and experiences as strengths.
Excellence
We perform every task to the highest standards for the best possible outcomes for those we serve.
Take a Virtual Tour of Our Campus
Come to St. Joseph’s Indian School from the comfort of your armchair. Narrated by Joseph Marshall III, this virtual tour takes you on a journey around our beautiful campus and offers a glimpse into the places where our students learn, grow and thrive.
Campus life is enriched by numerous works of art. Many were created by students with visiting artists. Others are the handiwork of talented employees of St. Joseph’s Indian School.