Clara Caufield. Photo from Native News Project / University of Montana School of Journalism
‘Mutt’ Jeff Parker, making it all of the way back
By Clara Caufield
A Cheyenne Voice Since it is back to school time this column may be timely. Yet, I write it upon request, having previously mentioned that often Cheyenne tribal members bring ideas to me. “You should write about this or that (usually meaning themselves),” they will say. Recently, some Cheyenne friends came to call, in particular Jeff “Mutt” Parker and two of his relatives. He suggested a column. So, here it is… In 1979, in pursuit of a college degree in secondary education, the opportunity came to student teach at St. Labre Indian School, Ashland, Mont., then serving a student population of mostly Northern Cheyenne. I was assigned to History and Native American studies classes across several high school grade levels, including the dreaded senior class, only a few years younger than me. Even at 17, Mutt, the leader of a pack of rascals, was (and still is) a very large physical specimen: 6’2”, over 250 pounds, ferocious football and basketball player, a “wild child”, confidence running off him like river at flood stage. Teachers, especially small timid ones like me, were just a game to him, not even challenge. Visit the all new Native Sun News website for the full story: ‘Mutt’ Jeff Parker, making it all of the way back (Clara Caufield can be reached at acheyennevoice@gmail.com) Copyright permission Native Sun News
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