WOODBURY, MN (WNN) – Rocky Erickson, a freshman at Math and Science Academy in Woodbury, won an “Outstanding Student of the Year” award by the Minnesota Indian Education Association.
He was one of ten students to receive this statewide recognition.
Rocky is a tribal member of the Prairie Island Dakota Community, and has been attending MSA since he was in sixth grade.
In a conversation with Woodbury News Net, his mother, Nibi Ogichidaa Ikwe Erickson, said that Rocky has had consistently high academic scores.
“His scores are in the 99th or 100 percentile in school. He has been attending MSA since he was in sixth grade and excels, thrives and loves being around his peers at the school.”
The MIEA Board of Directors recognizes students for their dedication, hard work, uplifting our communities, preserving our traditions, being a great role model, and inspiring us all.
In recognition of his award, Math and Science Academy has invited Rocky to meet the School Board members at its upcoming meeting in April.
Rocky participates in Advanced Band, and Tri-M Modern Music Masters at Math & Science Academy.
Erickson said that she used to own a house near East Ridge High School in Woodbury but five years ago her family moved away to the Prairie Island Dakota Community, near Red Wing, MN, where Rocky’s father owns tribal land.
“His dad makes the 40 -minute trip to bring Rocky to MSA and once again picks him up after school… We love Woodbury, it is worth the trip for Rocky,” says the proud mom.
Several Prairie Island Dakota Community families live in Woodbury.
Rocky is the oldest of six siblings. Next year his brother Alexander will also be joining MSA.
