Every child has a spark—something bright inside them that’s just waiting to be nurtured. At St. Joseph’s Indian School, that belief shapes everything they do.

Located in Chamberlain, South Dakota, St. Joseph’s has been serving Native American children and families since 1927. It’s not just a school. It’s a home, a support system, and a place where children can heal, grow, and begin to dream again. And houseparents are right at the heart of it.

In a recent PSA campaign titled “The Spark,” the school shared a simple but powerful message: that with the right care, attention, and love, every child’s spark can grow into something extraordinary. Whether it’s a gift for art, a love of learning, or just the strength to keep going, these sparks are worth protecting.

If you're considering a houseparent career, this message might resonate with you. Maybe you’ve spent your life raising children, working in education, health care, or ministry. Maybe you're in a season where you feel called to something deeper—a role that blends caregiving with mission.

At St. Joseph’s, houseparents live and work on campus, providing structure, compassion, and stability for Lakota boys and girls who cannot live with their families full-time. It’s a unique role that calls for teamwork, faith, and a steady heart. But it’s also filled with joyful, everyday moments—like cheering on a child who learns to ride a bike or watching someone finally feel safe enough to laugh again.

When you become a houseparent here, you're not just filling a job. You're becoming part of a child’s story—helping their spark take root and shine.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your next chapter could be more meaningful, this may be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. Because sometimes, the spark you’re helping to grow will ignite something in you, too.

Learn more about St. Joseph's today!

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