Chief Little Wound
Chief Little Wound was a renowned leader of the Kiyuksu (Bear People) clan of the Oglala Lakota Nation. Riding alongside Crazy Horse in the Battle of Greasy Grass and counting coup in other late nineteenth century encounters, Little Wound was re
cognized for showing compassion and generosity toward his people. Traveling to Washington, D.C., he advocated for the rights of the Lakota people. His son, George, inherited this cause and lobbied for a new school on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. George Little Wound wanted an alternative to the boarding schools that many children were forced to attend: a school where students could learn their own history, culture, and language. In the early twentieth century, our school was established and named in both of their honor.
For nearly a century, Little Wound School has been a leader at providing a quality education grounded in Lakota culture and history. Named in honor of Chief Little Wound and his son, George, today our school educates about 900 students from kindergarten through twelfth grade.
Today, Little Wound School’s mission remains unchanged: To provide a sacred environment for students to achieve academic and Lakota language and cultural excellence. All our students receive Lakota language instruction from kindergarten through graduation, students take classes in tribal government and Native American studies, and they have the opportunity to attend cultural activities throughout the year. Our students are also some of the most incredibly talented people in the nation: they include Gates Millennium Scholars, Indian National Finals Rodeo champions, Lakota Nation Invitational tournament champions, actors, published poets, and more.