Chikasha Academy Adult Immersion Program (CAAIP)

Chickasaw Nation Residents
Application Available
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CAAIP is an adult Chickasaw language immersion program for novice learners who are paired with master-level fluent Chickasaw speakers and proficient second language speakers of Chickasaw. Through structured immersion approaches, this language program creates new Chickasaw language teachers.

See contact information, program details or locations.

Apply

Eligibility
  • Chickasaw citizen.
  • 18 years or older
  • Have a strong desire to teach and perpetuate the Chickasaw language and culture
  • Available Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.
  • Pass a youth sensitive background check
You Provide
  • Chickasaw citizenship card
  • Driver's license
  • Program application
Deadlines
22
Aug
Aug 22, 2025
Chikasha Academy Adult Immersion Program Applications Due
PDF Application

Contact

Phone:
(580) 310-9536x61360
Email:
Mailing Address:
2020 Arlington St., Suite 1, Ada, Oklahoma 74820

Events

No upcoming events.

Program Details

Study the Chickasaw language in an immersive group environment, learning how to preserve and share the Chickasaw language and culture with others.

The program is a full-time, two-year commitment. CAAIP participants study the Chickasaw language Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. and receive compensation for up to 40 hours per week. The number of applicants selected is based on program availability.

Upon completion, participants are expected to be, at minimum, conversational in Chickasaw. It takes a lifetime commitment to become as proficient as our fluent speakers. However, the more committed and persistent a language apprentice is, the more proficient they will become. Success is wholly dependent on each individual’s drive and effort. 

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Is the program available online?
    This program requires in-person attendance Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. in Ada, Oklahoma. However, an online one-year intensive language immersion program is also available.
  2. How can I apply to the program?
    The application can be submitted online or printed and returned to 2020 Arlington St., Suite 1, in Ada, Oklahoma.
  3. How often do classes begin?
    Participant groups are selected every two years and begin work in October.
  4. What is the class size?
    Each class includes a learner group of eight, plus a second language conversational instructor.
  5. How does CAAIP interact with the Chickasaw language speaking community?
    CAAIP practices a holistic approach to adult language acquisition, immersing participants in Chickasaw language and culture. As often as possible, participants will join community events through social and volunteer opportunities, in addition to meeting weekly with fluent speakers and monthly with the Chickasaw Language Committee.
  6. Can I work another job while participating in CAAIP?
    Participants are discouraged from working outside employment during their time with the program. Immersion education is challenging and will require time and attention to excel. Participants will receive compensation for 40 hours per week while in the program.
  7. How are applicants admitted to the CAAIP?
    Participants are selected through an application and interview process.
  8. Can I reapply if not selected?
    Yes, please submit a new application at each opportunity. Your application will not transfer from one application period to the next. Some program participants applied multiple times before being placed into the program.
  9. Will I be a fluent speaker of Chickasaw at the end of two years?
    Students should reach a level of Intermediate Mid as defined by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages standards after two years in the program.
  10. Where can I work after completing the CAAIP?
    Graduates of the CAAIP can go on to find employment across the Chickasaw Nation, using their newly acquired language skills for the betterment of our community.
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Locations

Chikasha Academy Adult Immersion Program

Ada, Oklahoma 74820

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