The ideologies of Native traditional beliefs and spirituality persist into modern day life as tribal cultures, traditions, and languages are still practiced by many American Indian people and are incorporated into how tribes govern and manage their affairs. Additionally, each tribe has its own oral histories, which are as valid as written histories. These histories predate the "discovery" of North America. It is not important for educators to understand all the complexities of modern day America

The ideologies of Native traditional beliefs and spirituality persist into modern day life as tribal cultures, traditions, and languages are still practiced by many American Indian people and are incorporated into how tribes govern and manage their affairs. Additionally, each tribe has its own oral histories, which are as valid as written histories. These histories predate the "discovery" of North America. It is not important for educators to understand all the complexities of modern day American Indian cultures; however, they should be aware of their existence and the fact they can influence much of the thinking and practice of American Indians today. Many of these principles and values persist into contemporary times, including ongoing spiritual practices, other cultural activities, and even how tribes govern themselves and their territories. These values include respect, humility, generosity, honesty, courage, collaboration, responsibility, community, cooperation, selflessness, humor, and reciprocity, among many others. This section covers contemporary and traditional beliefs, and how the past and present work together in the classroom.