ADA, Okla. – The Chickasaw Nation Preschool in Ada celebrated its largest graduating class at the Chickasaw Nation Community Center in May. Doting parents, family members and friends gathered as Chickasaw youths gained their diplomas and accepted a surprise gift.
The students were among a large group of Chickasaw Nation Early Childhood and Head Start students celebrated in May graduation ceremonies. Similar events occurred in Ardmore, Sulphur and Tishomingo.
The ceremony began with a welcome from Chickasaw Nation Early Childhood Center Supervisor Weston Brown followed by a presentation of the Lord’s Prayer in sign language by Chickasaw Princess Abby Gaines, Chickasaw Junior Princess Jadyce Burns and Little Miss Chickasaw Jagger Underwood.
Chickasaw Nation Director of Early Childhood Tatum Sallee introduced the graduating class of 2024 as well as the faculty and staff who helped them on their education journey. Upon introductions, the graduates sang common nursery rhymes in both English and Chickasaw and recited the Pledge of Allegiance.
Chickasaw Nation Lt. Governor Chris Anoatubby and Chickasaw Nation Secretary of Education Nathan Elliott presented each student with a diploma. Outfitted in small red caps and gowns with ribbons draped across the chest to pay tribute to traditional Chickasaw regalia, students gladly accepted their diplomas as the emcee announced their future career aspirations. Police officer, teacher and Elsa from “Frozen” were among the most popular answers.
Upon graduation, each Ada Preschool graduate received a handmade piece of regalia, boys receiving ribbon vests and girls receiving ribbon skirts. The surprise gift from the Chickasaw Nation had many parents in tears. This is the first year Chickasaw preschool graduates have received regalia to honor their ancestral culture.
Learn more about the program
The Chickasaw Nation Preschool and Head Start programs promote school readiness for children ages 3 to 5 years old with curriculum designed for social, emotional, physical and cognitive development.
“Our commitment is to enhance our nation’s children and families through education,” Sallee said. “Your student has completed the first step to building a strong foundation for growth and advancement. Thank you for entrusting your child to us this school year and we look forward to their continued success as they become our future leaders.”
The Chickasaw Nation early childhood programs provide school readiness instruction and parent support to more than 300 children in four communities.
In its 46th year of operation, the program began serving the Chickasaw Nation in 1978, graduating 33 students.
A family-focused organization, students have access to individualized education plans, health and wellness screenings, nutrition and family engagement, as well as cultural instruction. Upon graduation, they are ready to succeed in kindergarten.
The Chickasaw Nation Ada Preschool program is tribally funded and serves Chickasaw citizens. The Head Start centers in Ardmore, Sulphur and Tishomingo are federally and tribally funded and have open enrollment. Applications for both programs are now open.
For more information or an application, visit Chickasaw.net/EarlyChildhood.