As students return to classrooms this fall, the Choctaw Nation continues its commitment to helping tribal members achieve their educational goals through programs that support learning from early childhood through career development.
Executive Director of Education Amanda Johnson said the Choctaw Nation Education Department is ready to help students and families start the new school year.
“Choctaw Nation Education Programs are gearing up for another successful school year with a strong commitment to supporting tribal members. Our team is ready to work hard, provide meaningful resources, and help students and families feel prepared, encouraged, and supported every step of the way.”
Whether preparing children for their first day of preschool, helping high school students plan for the future, assisting college students with educational expenses or providing workforce training for adults, the Choctaw Nation offers resources to help members succeed at every stage.
Building a Foundation
A strong education begins with a strong foundation.
Head Start helps children ages 3 to 5 prepare for kindergarten by providing educational, health, nutritional and family support services that promote school readiness and early success in the classroom.
As students prepare for a new school year, the Student School & Activity Fund (SSAF) helps eligible Choctaw students purchase school clothing through a $100 prepaid Visa card. Throughout the school year, the Johnson-O’Malley (JOM) Program partners with schools across the reservation to provide supplemental educational opportunities and services that support Native American students.
Academic achievement is also celebrated through the Success Through Academic Recognition (STAR) Program, which rewards eligible students for outstanding grades and perfect attendance each semester.
Families seeking a residential education experience may also consider Jones Academy, which serves students in grades 1 through 12 while promoting academic excellence, leadership and Choctaw culture.
Preparing for College and Careers
High school is an exciting time as students begin exploring future careers, college opportunities and life after graduation.
Through High School Student Services, students receive academic advising, ACT prep, scholarship information, individualized development plans and reimbursements for qualifying education-related expenses.
Students interested in technical education can receive assistance through High School Career Tech Assistance, while those earning college credit before graduation may qualify for High School Concurrent College Assistance.
Those interested in health care careers can also explore opportunities through Health Education in Rural Oklahoma for Employment Success (HEROES).
Outside the classroom, students can continue developing leadership skills through the Youth Advisory Board (YAB), where members participate in community service projects, leadership training, conferences and professional development opportunities while making a positive impact in their communities.
Supporting College Success
The Choctaw Nation continues investing in students after high school through programs that help make higher education more accessible and affordable.
The Higher Education Program provides financial assistance to eligible students pursuing associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees. Students attending Southeastern Oklahoma State University, Carl Albert State College and Eastern Oklahoma State College can also receive additional support through the College Freshman Year Initiative (College FYI), which helps first-year students successfully transition to college life.
Additional programs help students succeed beyond the classroom.
The Technology Allowance provides a one-time payment to assist with technology expenses, while the College Clothing Allowance helps eligible students purchase professional attire during their college careers.
As students reach graduation, the Graduation Honors Program recognizes eligible graduates with graduation cords and stoles that celebrate their accomplishments.
Students pursuing careers in education may also benefit from Teach 2 Reach, which provides financial assistance, mentoring, professional development and career placement support for future educators attending participating universities.
Education Beyond Graduation
Learning doesn’t stop after graduation. Adults looking to build new skills or advance their careers can take advantage of several workforce and continuing education programs offered through the Choctaw Nation.
The Career Development Program provides career counseling, tuition assistance and workforce readiness services for members pursuing industry-recognized credentials, certifications and licensure.
Adults working toward earning a high school equivalency diploma can receive instruction and support through the Adult Education Program.
The Vocational Development Program helps eligible participants complete approved vocational and career technology training.
The 477 Program provides employment and training opportunities through classroom instruction, work experience, on-the-job training, youth employment services and child care assistance, helping participants prepare for long-term career success.
Education is a lifelong journey, and the Choctaw Nation stays committed to helping tribal members find the support they need at every step along the way.
Not sure where to start? Use the following guide to find the right program for you or your student.