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- By Native News Online Staff
Joined by tribal officials, educators, and students, Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby on Friday, September 8, led groundbreaking ceremonies for a project which will expand vital childcare services in the tribal community.
The new Chickasaw Nation Child Development Center in Ada, Okla. represents a crucial investment in early childhood education for the children and families of the Ada community, Gov, Anoatubby said.
“This new facility is another way in which we are continually working to meet our mission to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people. This is a celebration of another step in our decades-long investment in our youth and families here in the Ada area and throughout the Chickasaw Nation,” Gov. Anoatubby said.
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The Chickasaw Nation Child Development Center cares for children from 6 weeks to 4 years, offering a positive, nurturing environment at facilities in Ada and Ardmore, Okla.
The new Chickasaw Nation Child Development Center will be nearly 19,000 square-feet, decorated with river themed interior corridors, whimsical storefronts, and characters to create an exciting environment that sparks imagination and supports early learning.
The new facility features eight classrooms, two indoor play areas, an aerobics room, a teacher workroom and breakroom, a first aide room, laundry rooms, a commercial kitchen, and two storm shelter areas.
The exterior will include two age-specific playgrounds and covered parking for parent drop off and pick up.
“We believe this facility will serve to provide our children and families in this area a place to learn and grow in a fun and exciting environment,” Governor Anoatubby said.
The Chickasaw Nation has experienced tremendous growth in recent years, which is reflected in the many new facilities and services offered at the Chickasaw Nation Ada South Campus, including the medical center.
Exceptional early childhood teachers and dedicated staff focus on the overall development of the children as well as developing healthy interaction skills through positive learning environments that encourage discovery.
“We know that education, nurturing and support is vitally important early in a child’s life. This year-round program is committed to making long-term positive differences in the lives of our children,” Gov. Anoatubby said. “We also partner with families and caregivers throughout our children’s earliest milestones because we understand the importance of all those who have a hand in the upbringing of our children."
Chickasaw culture and language are incorporated in the facility’s design and the curriculum. Nutrition, physical activity and early detection screenings for hearing, vision, dental and overall development add health and wellness components.
Chickasaw Nation Child Development Centers are also planned for the communities of Tishomingo and Purcell, Okla.
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