ADA, Okla. — The Chickasaw Nation Preschool in Ada celebrated its graduating class at the Chickasaw Nation Community Center May 22. Doting parents, family members and friends gathered as Chickasaw youths gained their diplomas and accepted a culturally significant 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 Cheyanne Arkansas, Chickasaw Junior Princess Channa Greenwood and Little Miss Chickasaw Eliorah Wright.
Chickasaw Nation Director of Early Childhood Tatum Sallee introduced the graduating class of 2025 as well as Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby, Chickasaw Nation Lt. Governor Chris Anoatubby and the faculty and staff who helped the preschool students 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 Governor Bill Anoatubby and Chickasaw Nation Lt. Governor Chris Anoatubby 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 firefighter 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. This is the second year Chickasaw preschool graduates 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.
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.
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.
For more information or an application, visit Chickasaw.net/EarlyChildhood.