Exploring Native Culture at Chief Kitsap Academy: Disc Golf, Salmon Fishing, and More!

Last year, as part of our Native American Heritage Month journey, we had the opportunity to visit Chief Kitsap Academy, a school located on the Suquamish Reservation in Washington.

This unique school, serving grades 6-12, offers a blend of modern education and cultural teachings that connect students to their Native heritage while preparing them for the future. We were thrilled to experience a day of hands-on learning and fun during our visit.

One of the main highlights of the trip was checking out the new disc golf course that was installed at the academy in 2023, thanks to the Paul McBeth Foundation—and yes, PowWows.com was one of the proud sponsors!

This project is part of the foundation’s mission to bring disc golf to communities around the world, and we were excited to see it come to life here.

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Watch the video from our visit!

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Hands-On Learning: Salmon Fishing at Chief Kitsap Academy

During our visit, we had the privilege of witnessing students learning traditional salmon fishing and harvesting techniques. Under the guidance of cultural teachers, the students went out earlier in the week to catch fish using a method called beach seining. Afterward, they processed and filleted the fish themselves, learning essential skills rooted in the traditions of their ancestors.

What’s especially remarkable is that the students don’t just learn these skills—they get to enjoy the fruits of their labor!

The fish is smoked right there on campus in the school’s very own smokehouse, while the rest is canned and shared with the community, especially with the elders. It’s these kinds of experiences that make Chief Kitsap Academy truly stand out, providing students with a rich connection to their heritage.

As the teachers shared with us, the academy isn’t just focused on academics; it’s a place where Native youth can reconnect with their culture. Activities like fishing, smoking salmon, song, and dance allow students to explore their heritage and develop a deep sense of pride in their identity.

The Disc Golf Course: A New Passion for Students

Of course, we couldn’t leave without trying out the brand-new disc golf course ourselves!

Thanks to the Paul McBeth Foundation, the course is already becoming a hit with students. Some have found a new love for the sport, using it as a fun way to take a break from studies or even as a reward for getting their work done.

Barron, one of teachers, who wasn’t initially into disc golf, confessed that the course has grown on him. Now, both he and many students play regularly, with some students becoming quite skilled. During our visit, we even saw one of the staff members score an ace on hole nine—a highlight of the day!

Bringing Native Culture to Your Next Adventure

This visit was part of our efforts to highlight Native culture as we travel, and it ties into our ExploreNative.Travel portal. We encourage you to add some Native culture to your next family vacation or road trip.

Whether it’s visiting a school like Chief Kitsap Academy or learning more about Native arts and crafts, there are countless ways to enrich your travel experiences with meaningful cultural insights.

We also had the chance to visit Eighth Generation during this trip, which was another highlight of our Native American Heritage Month journey. If you haven’t already, check out our article about this amazing Native-owned business in downtown Seattle here: Eighth Generation – A Journey Through Native American Art and Culture.

Special thanks to the faculty, students, and staff at Chief Kitsap Academy for hosting us and sharing their traditions. And, of course, to the Paul McBeth Foundation for continuing to spread the joy of disc golf to new communities!

For more Native-inspired travel ideas, visit ExploreNative.Travel.

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Last Updated on February 5, 2025 by Paul G