TISHOMINGO, Okla. — Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby led ribbon-cutting ceremonies May 28 for the new Chickasaw Nation Tishomingo Child Development Center, a facility which will expand vital childcare and education services in the community.
The new Chickasaw Nation Child Development Center, located on the Chickasaw Nation Tishomingo campus, 803 E. 5th St., is an important addition to the Tishomingo community and a significant milestone in the Chickasaw Nation’s ability to serve children and families in the Tishomingo area, Governor Anoatubby said.
“We are thrilled to open this new facility here in Tishomingo to assist in preparing children for long-term success as we build toward an even brighter future for the Chickasaw people and the Chickasaw Nation, as a whole,” Governor Anoatubby said.
“The growth and education of our youth is extremely vital to the future of our tribe and communities, and we understand the long-term impact that positive early childhood experiences can have on a child’s future success.”
The Tishomingo child development center offers more than 16,400 square feet of space designed with fairy-tale-themed interior corridors and dinosaur- and ocean-themed wings. The facility also features whimsical storefronts and characters designed to spark curiosity and creativity.
“We believe this facility will provide children and families with a place to grow and learn in an exciting, positive and supportive community environment, and we are honored to be a part of that process,” Governor Anoatubby said.
The new facility features eight classrooms, two indoor play areas, a teacher workroom and breakroom, a first-aid room, a laundry room, commercial kitchen and dining area, and two storm shelter areas. The exterior includes two playgrounds and covered parking for parent drop-off and pickup.
Governor Anoatubby said the new facility reflects the Chickasaw Nation’s emphasis on providing educational opportunities for its citizens to meet the tribe’s mission: to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people.
“Nurturing the early development and social skills of children is critical to their overall well-being and ability to form a healthy relationship to continued education. That is the reason the Chickasaw Nation continues to invest its resources and provide opportunities that support early development,” he said.
The Chickasaw Nation childcare program first opened in 2002 and has since expanded to provide more opportunities for families. The Chickasaw Nation Child Development Centers care for children from 6 weeks to 4 years, offering a positive, nurturing environment at facilities in Ada and Ardmore. In addition to the Tishomingo facility, a new Chickasaw Nation Child Development Center will open soon in Purcell.
The Chickasaw Nation Child Development Centers’ dedicated professionals provide a secure and supportive environment that encourages interaction skills and learning through play. Health and wellness are also vital components, and early detection screenings for hearing, vision, dental and development are incorporated into the curriculum. In addition, early intervention staff are also available to assist children with health or learning conditions. Sharing Chickasaw culture is a top priority.
“Chickasaw language and culture are woven into the learning experience, fostering an early awareness and appreciation of our vibrant Chickasaw heritage,” Governor Anoatubby said. “By working together, we reinforce and extend a tradition of community that has sustained and empowered Chickasaws for countless generations.”
For more information, visit Chickasaw.net or contact the Chickasaw Nation Department of Education at (580) 421-7711.