4-H in Schitsu’umsh Reservation
4‑H
In 4‑H, we are developing citizenship, leadership, responsibility and life skills of youth through experiential learning and a positive youth development approach, with a focus on agriculture, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), civic engagement and healthy living.
Youth ages 5-18 in Schitsu’umsh Reservation can become a member of a 4‑H club, attend a 4‑H camp or a project camp, participate in an afterschool program and grow as leaders through district and statewide events and opportunities. Our programs are designed to spark curiosity and build lifelong skills — whether you’re new to 4‑H or a returning member, there’s always something new to explore.
To learn more about 4‑H in Idaho, visit the UI Extension 4‑H Youth Development website.
What is 4‑H?
4‑H is America’s largest youth development organization, with over 6.5 million members nationwide — and thousands here in Idaho. In 4‑H, children and teenagers build confidence and gain lifelong skills. Through hands-on learning in clubs, camps and community programs, Idaho youth explore their passions, connect with others and make a difference — in a safe, welcoming environment.
Current programming
Juntos
Juntos is a 4-H program to support academic success and encourages families to gain the knowledge and skills they need to access higher education.
- Target audience: 7th-8th grade students at Lakeside Middle School
- Focus areas: Academic success, success coaching, literacy, STEM, leadership and mentorship
- Program structure: Comprehensive support system helping students develop academic and social-emotional skills
- Impact: Building pathways to high school success and post-secondary readiness
Success center afterschool program
- Location: Lakeside Elementary
- Programming: Literacy, art and STEM activities
- Approach: Hands-on, experiential learning supporting academic achievement
- Community connection: Partnerships with local organizations and volunteers
Cloverbuds
- Age group: Younger youth (ages 5-8)
- Activities: Gardening, nature exploration and age-appropriate STEM activities
- Learning focus: Building foundation skills and fostering curiosity about the natural world
Civic engagement and leadership projects
4‑H civic engagement and leadership projects empower young people to be well-informed citizens who are actively engaged in their communities and the world. Youth have the opportunity to participate in Know Your Government, State Teen Association Convention and 4‑H LEADS, among other opportunities.
Explore the full list of 4‑H projects and contact our office to see which are offered in Schitsu’umsh Reservation.
STEM and hands-on learning
Garden-based learning
- Youth gardening projects at Lakeside Elementary
- Integration of science, math and environmental education
- Connection to traditional ecological knowledge and food systems
- Hands-on application of academic concepts
- Biweekly STEM activities at Plummer Public Library
Arts integration
- Creative expression through various art forms
- Cultural arts education honoring tribal traditions
- Art as a tool for literacy and academic support
- Community art projects and presentations
Cultural integration
All 4-H programming on Schitsu'umsh Reservation incorporates:
- Traditional knowledge: Integration of tribal cultural knowledge and practices
- Cultural responsiveness: Programming designed to honor and support tribal values
- Community connection: Strong partnerships with tribal departments and community organizations
- Intergenerational learning: Opportunities for youth to learn from elders and community members
Getting involved
Youth
- Contact us to learn about current programming opportunities
- Participate in age-appropriate activities and leadership development
- Engage in community service and civic activities
Families
- Support youth participation in 4-H activities
- Volunteer with programming and events
- Connect with other families in the 4-H community
Community members
- Volunteer as mentors and program supporters
- Share expertise and knowledge with youth
- Participate in community events and celebrations
Discover how 4-H can support young people in your life. Contact us to learn more about our programming and how to get involved.
View the 4‑H family handbook (pdf) for more information on getting started with 4‑H in Idaho.
Program calendar
Academic year programming
- Juntos: Weekly programming throughout the school year
- Success Center Afterschool: Regular programming at Lakeside Elementary
- Cloverbuds: Seasonal activities and hands-on learning
Annual events
- Know Your Government Conference (February)
- Idaho State Teen Association Convention (June)
- Community service projects and cultural celebrations throughout the year
Seasonal activities
- Spring: Garden planning and planting, outdoor education
- Summer: Intensive programming, camps and outdoor activities
- Fall: Harvest celebrations, cultural activities, Water Potato Awareness Week
- Winter: Indoor programming, academic support, leadership development
Partnerships and collaboration
Key partners
- Coeur d'Alene Tribe Education Department
- Lakeside Elementary and Middle School
- Coeur d'Alene Tribal School
- Success Center programs
- Tribal wellness and youth programs
- Community organizations and volunteers
Regional connections
- Idaho’s 4-H statewide programming
- Inter-tribal youth development initiatives
- Regional educational partnerships
Youth outcomes and impact
- Our 4-H programming supports youth in developing:
- Academic success: Improved literacy, STEM skills and academic achievement
- Leadership skills: Civic engagement, communication and community service
- Cultural identity: Strong connection to tribal culture and traditional knowledge
- Life skills: Decision-making, responsibility and social-emotional learning
- Community connection: Sense of belonging and commitment to community service
Join an event
Discover 4‑H events happening in Schitsu’umsh Reservation. Explore statewide and national events.