TISHOMINGO, Okla. — Of the 16 graduating students at the Chickasaw Nation Tishomingo Head Start program, five want to pursue a career as a police officer and four wish to be teachers.
Graduating ceremonies took place in the Chickasaw Nation Community Center with a packed house of parents, grandparents, siblings and friends celebrating the students’ achievements.
Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby, joined by Lt. Governor Chris Anoatubby, bestowed graduation diplomas on the youngsters. Chickasaw Nation Secretary of Education Nathan Elliott also joined in the fun.
The graduates and what they wish to be when they reach adulthood included:
Jennings Ballard, singer; Everly Bayless, teacher; Sarah Boston, police officer; Meadow Ferrari, police officer; Shani Flores Paralta, teacher; Sarah Hartsell, police officer; and Terry Hughes, farmer.
Other graduates include Emory Jamison, police officer; Julius Moore, artist; Nova Morse, teacher; Hunter Rose, police officer; Bracee Russell, veterinarian; Raider Sparkman, firefighter; Colson St. Clair, teacher; and Sabrina Tilley, airplane pilot.
Professional photographers were on-site to photograph graduates receiving diplomas from Governor Anoatubby and Lt. Governor Chris Anoatubby. Graduation photos are available for families and friends at Chickasaw.net/2025Graduation.
About the Chickasaw Nation Head Start program
The Chickasaw Nation Head Start is both a federally and tribally funded program that promotes school readiness using center-based curriculum for children ages 3 to 5.
The educational philosophy employed by the program is based on the principle that early childhood education should address children’s needs in all areas of development, including physical, social, emotional and cognitive health and well-being.
The Chickasaw Nation Head Start program began serving the Chickasaw Nation in 1978. Since inception, it has graduated thousands with multiple generations having completed the program.
For applications or additional information, visit Chickasaw.net or call (580) 223-6276.