Keith LeBeau named Circle of Nations School Employee of the Year for dedication to students and culture

WAHPETON — At Circle of Nations School, Keith LeBeau's impact reaches far beyond the classroom walls.

LeBeau, a paraprofessional at the school, was recently named Circle of Nations School Employee of the Year for his dedication to students, Native American culture and the school community. From helping organize powwows and cultural activities to coaching golf, mentoring students and leading Friday closing ceremonies, LeBeau has become a trusted and supportive presence for many students at CNS.

“I was incredibly appreciative,†LeBeau said of receiving the honor. “It's an honor to be recognized, especially knowing how many coworkers were worthy of such a recognition.â€

LeBeau said the recognition is meaningful both personally and professionally.

“Personally, this recognition means a great deal because it's rewarding to know that my efforts have been noticed, appreciated and valued by others,†he said. “Professionally, it reinforces the importance of teamwork.â€

LeBeau's connection to the school began decades ago when it was still known as Wahpeton Indian School. While attending North Dakota State College of Science in 1979, he spent time playing basketball and softball with staff and students and remembered thinking, “I would like to work here someday.†After returning to Wahpeton in 1991, he was hired at CNS in August 1993.

More than 30 years later, he said the most rewarding part of his work is watching students grow academically, culturally and personally.

“What I enjoy most is being in a capacity to work with the students inside and outside the classroom,†he said.

LeBeau said helping students stay connected to their Native American culture is especially important.

“A student needs to have that sense of purpose, that belonging,†he said. “Staying connected helps preserve traditions, languages and values that the students were taught and passed on to them.â€

He helps organize the school's annual Powwow and other cultural activities alongside staff members from across departments.

“It is very important for our students to see how much the staff from every department support their cultural journey,†he said.

LeBeau also leads the school's Friday closing ceremonies, which include drumming, dancing and games to help students end the week on a positive note.

“We incorporate some fun dances with the use of the drum,†he said. “The whole student body is encouraged to participate.â€

Outside the classroom, LeBeau coaches the school's golf team, which currently has 18 student participants. He said activities like golf and cultural programs allow students to grow in different ways.

“You see a different side of a student outside the classroom environment when they are engaged in new, exciting activities,†he said.

LeBeau said his own upbringing on a reservation without strong cultural opportunities inspired his commitment to providing those experiences for students today.

“I now see the importance of keeping traditional values, teachings and ceremonies available to our students,†he said.

One memory that has stayed with him involved helping a shy, homesick student from Arizona adjust to life at CNS. LeBeau spent time with the student after school, took him to football games and watched the movie “Selena†together, eventually helping him build friendships with other students.

“At the end of that school year, he had written a very personal letter to me, thanking me for being a great staff member and friend,†LeBeau said.

After decades of service, LeBeau said student success continues to motivate him every day.

“When you help a student understand their schoolwork and they get that smile and say ‘thanks,'†he said. “Knowing that you will make a difference today and tomorrow in a student's life.â€

He hopes students leave CNS remembering the support and sense of belonging they experienced at the school.

“We are grateful to be surrounded by such a supportive and understanding community,†LeBeau said. “We truly appreciate the role the community plays in helping support our fundraisers, athletics and cultural events. Miigwech! — thank you.â€