ACT 31: History, Culture and Sovereignty Rights of Wisconsin Indians
This workshop is designed for those who are seeking initial licensure or certification to comply with ACT 31 legislation required by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.
A seven-hour seminar, including two lectures and coursework over Canvas, fulfills the human relations and minority group relations, #1, by demonstrating knowledge and understanding of the history, culture and tribal sovereignty of American Indian tribes and bands located in Wisconsin. It satisfies the human relations stipulation for those who have completed a comparable, approved educator preparation program in another state.
Click on the Resources tab to find more information on available credit-bearing courses that would also meet this requirement.
Accessing Canvas
Click Here for a step-by-step guide to accessing Canvas!
Instructor

My Anishinaabe name is Nodaway Benaise and I am Sturgeon Clan. I am enrolled in the Oneida Tribe of Wisconsin, and my ancestry includes Menominee, Mille Lacs Ojibwe, Stockbridge-Munsee, French and English. My experience as an educator, lecturer and curriculum specialist in ... read more
Who Should Attend
Educators and those who are seeking to fulfill the mandate required by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.
Priority is given to UWM post-baccalaureate students. Please indicate your status on your registration.
Benefits and Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate awareness about the events that led up to the Wisconsin ACT 31 legislation.
- Increase knowledge of best practices, model programs and available resources.
- Align classroom materials and curriculum with Wisconsin American Indian studies.
- Increase knowledge about Wisconsin American Indian tribal sovereignty, treaties and governance.
Notes
This seminar carries no credit, but meets the state of Wisconsin’s certification requirement.
All UWM students are required to provide their student ID number during class attendance.
Testimonials
"Mr. Denning’s knowledge, insight and personal stories were enlightening and informative." — Seminar participant
"I loved the historical perspective on contemporary issues that persist. Great conversations and though-provoking histories and resources." — Seminar participant
Date: March 18-22, 2024
Tuesday 3/18 6:00-8:00pm
Saturday 3/22 9:00-11:00am
Delivery Method: Live Online
Platform: Canvas
Instructor: Mark Denning
Fee:
$139 by Mar 9, 2025
$159 after Mar 9, 2025
CEUs: .7
Enrollment Limit: 50
Program Number: 7140-16236
Note: For credit, you must attend both lectures and complete all Canvas assignments, including an essay.
One week prior to class you will receive an email containing information to access Canvas. Emails will only be sent to participants that are paid in full.
Registration Deadline: Mar 16, 2025
Date: June 3-7, 2025
Tuesday 6/3 6:00-8:00pm
Saturday 6/7 9:00-11:00am
Delivery Method: Live Online
Platform: Canvas
Instructor: Mark Denning
Fee:
$139 by May 25, 2025
$159 after May 25, 2025
CEUs: .7
Enrollment Limit: 50
Program Number: 7140-16237
Note: For credit, you must attend both lectures and complete all Canvas assignments, including an essay.
One week prior to class you will receive an email containing information to access Canvas. Emails will only be sent to participants that are paid in full.
Registration Deadline: June 1, 2025