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STAR Program Information
STAR Program Information
STAR Application Words From Chief:Several years ago, the Choctaw Nation began the STAR Program with the goal of motivating our Choctaw Students to reach their educational goals. After just two years, it is evident that this program is having a positive impact. Since the inception of the program in 2007, the STAR Program has grown tremendously, originally starting in the ten and one half county service area of southeastern Oklahoma, it now has students participating in 560 school sites across the state. Because of the unprecedented popularity of this program, we have decided to offer the benefits of the STAR Program to all eligible Choctaw students attending an accredited school anywhere in the world. I am convinced that this program will continue to encourage the academic success of Choctaws by providing students an incentive to strive for the highest possible level of achievement. This has been an exciting addition to the education services that the Choctaw Nation offers the youth of our tribe.
Requirements:
- Any student, 2nd-12th grade, attending an accredited school anywhere nationwide
- Each Student must have an application on file with the Choctaw Nation S.T.A.R program. (one time application unless there is a change of personal information, example: address change or school change)
- Students must be tribal members of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma; verified by S.T.A.R Staff and documented prior to award
Incentive Rewards Recognition each Semester (twice per academic year)
All A’s*: $25 Wal-Mart Gift Card All A’s & B’s: $10 Wal-Mart Gift Card Perfect Attendance: $25 Wal-Mart Gift Card All Above Students will also receive a Certificate of Recognition
*In Honors classes, B’s count as A’s and C’s count as B’s
Contact Information:
Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma STAR Program 324 N Washington, P.O. Box 1210 Durant, OK 74702
Phone: (800) 522-6170 Fax: (580) 924-0880 Website: star.choctawnation.com Email: star@choctawnation.com
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Jones Academy
Jones Academy
Jones Academy Academic Program
Brad Spears, Director
Phone: (888) 767-2518The long-range goals of our academic program are to develop capable students who can read and write proficiently and perform math functions necessary in life. We believe that building a strong foundation for our children will lead to success.
Our students attend the Hartshorne Public Schools. They are fully supported in their academic endeavors as well as extra-curricular activities. Grades are monitored weekly to insure that the student is performing to the best of his/her ability and receiving proper instruction. Tutorial services are offered to students in all grades. Students receive incentives for academic achievements. High school students are provided career counseling for post-secondary education such as college or vocational training.
Jones Academy houses an alternative school for students whose needs have not been met in the traditional classroom or who are behind in grade level. The limited class size and self-paced curriculum allow the teachers to give the students individualized academic attention.
The Choctaw Nation has begun the process of operating its own school at Jones Academy. Grades first through sixth are presently held on our campus. Construction of the new elementary school began in 2006.
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Choctaw History Internet Class
Choctaw History Internet Class
Curtis Billy
Phone: 800-522-6170
For more information please click here.
BROKEN LINK ABOVE -
Choctaw Language Department
Choctaw Language Department
James Parrish
Phone: (580) 924-8280
For more information please click here.
The Choctaw Nation now has language classes available on the Internet and will continue to expand those classes to meet the needs of those who are interested in enrolling. In addition to learning how to read and write in the native language the students will also learn about the history and culture of the tribe through the classes.
Distance learning through One-Net is now in approximately 40 high schools within the Choctaw Nation and in two colleges, Carl Albert Jr. College at Poteau and Eastern Oklahoma State College at Wilburton. The program is also being taught at Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant and in community classes in various locations in Oklahoma, Texas, Arkansas, and California.
Printable Information on Chata Anumpa Aiikhvna And Interlocal
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Choctaw Nation Head Start
Choctaw Nation Head Start
Rebecca Clapp
Phone: (580) 924-8280 x 2314Couldn’t find Asset with ID=602
Mission Statement
We hold ourselves accountable to work in collaboration with our families and communities to provide a quality program, committed to the wellness of the entire family.
Philosophy
See a child as they are meant to be.
The services provided by this program are very comprehensive. Five major component areas serve the needs of the children enrolled and their families: Education/Literacy, Health, Parent Involvement, Family Services and Nutrition.
Head Start is directed primarily toward economically disadvantaged families having children ages three to five years old. All nationalities are served, with preference given to Nativen American families.
Head Start is funded to serve enrolled children in 14 centers operating within the Choctaw Nation service area:
- Antlers
- Atoka
- Bennington
- Bethel
- Broken Bow
- Coalgate
- Durant
- Hugo
- McAlester
- Potea
- Stigler
The Head Start program now operates five days a week, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at five of the centers:
- Broken Bow
- Durant
- Hugo
- McAlester
- Wilburton
- Idabel
- Wright City
- Antlers
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Career Development Program
Career Development Program
Ken English, Ed.D.
Phone: 866-933-2260For more information please click here to visit our website.
Mail completed applications to:
Choctaw Nation
Career Development Program
P.O. Box 1210
Durant, OK 74702Let us help you find the career for you!
Vision for Success
Within today’s global economy, finding and keeping a job requires higher skill levels than ever before. Employers want workers with documented skills based on “real world” experience.
The Choctaw Nation’s vision for the development of the Career Development Program is to create a pipeline to quality career and technology training as well as career services for the Choctaw people.
Requirements for Eligibility
Interested participant must be a registered member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
What services are available?
- Career Guidance Services
- Assessment Testing
- Academic Remediation
- Financial Assistance for Quality Training
- “Career Readiness Certificate”
Career Guidance and Counseling Services
The Career Development Center offers a variety of services to facilitate student development in the academic, career, and personal/social areas. Services include assessment, academic advisement, career information and planning, college and/or technical school, financial aid and scholarships, job readiness assistance and personal and professional growth workshops.
Our staff includes certified, licensed or qualified professional career counselors.
Assessment Testing
The abilities to learn, communicate and solve problems are essential assets for any worker, regardless of career choice. The Career Development Program offers the following assessment testing/certifications that measure skills which employers believe are critical to job success:
- WorkKeys
- KeyTrain
- OKCIS
- Discover
- “Career Readiness Certificate”
Academic Remediation
The Career Development Program is committed to supporting and strengthening the academic skills and offers a variety of learning assistance programs designed to develop and improve skills necessary for success in college-level or technical courses.
Alternate modes of instruction, such as one-on-one tutorials, computer-assisted instruction, small groups and individualized instruction are used to address the needs of the students seeking assistance.
Financial Assistance for Quality Training
- Assistance with FAFSA Applications
- Funding available for those who qualify
Career Readiness Certificate
Career Readiness Certificates are portable credentials that show an individual has certain fundamentals needed in the workplace.
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Educational Talent Search
Educational Talent Search
Linda Powers, Director
P O Drawer 1210
Durant, OK 74702-1210
1-800-522-6170, Ext. 2711
Fax: (580) 920-1821Students, especially those who may become the first in their families to go into higher education, need to start planning early for college with the help of the Educational Talent Search program. Students as early as the 6th grade will be provided with educational information and encouragement as they begin to prepare for college.
The program identifies and serves 600 students attending specific target area middle schools and high schools who are in grades 6 - 12 (ages 11-27), who meet the eligibility guidelines (first generation and/or economically disadvantaged) established by the U. S. Department of Education, and who have been identified as having the potential to succeed in college. Students are encouraged to have high expectations, to stay in school, to study hard, and to take the right courses to get ready for college. Services may also include academic counseling, college and financial aid information, ACT preparation, college campus visits, and career exploration. The program encourages students to graduate from high school and enroll in a college of their choice.
For more information regarding the target schools or other specific eligibility criteria, please contact the Educational Talent Search office at the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma complex 800-522-6170, Ext. 2711. For an application, call the ETS office at the same number or visit with your school counselor.
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Higher Education and Grant Program
Higher Education and Grant Program
Larry Wade, Director
Phone: (800) 522-6170 Ext. 2224Higher Education Application Packet
The deadline for Spring 2012 was March 1, 2012.
Frequently Asked Questions Page
Deadline for Fall 2012 will be October 1, 2012.
Below is the list of documents that will be needed to complete your file for the FAll 2012 school year.
Complete the application and return it, along with the supporting documents, to our office by October 1, 2012. All documents must be sent together with the exception of the FNA form, which will be sent by the college or university Financial Aid office. If the application packet is received incomplete, it will be returned to you for completion. If the application packet is not postmarked by October 1, 2012 it will be returned to you in order that you may complete it for the fall semester.
Applying For Financial Aid
- Complete the Choctaw Nation Grant/Scholarship application and submit all required supporting papers.
- Submit copies of Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) and Tribal Membership cards showing Choctaw descent. All Minor Membership cards must be updated when student turns 18 years of age.
- Submit a copy of the final high school transcript, GED certificate or the most current college transcript, whichever applies.
- Current class schedule from the institution you are attending.
- Financial Need’s Analysis completed by the financial aid officer at the institution you will be attending. Note: School will forward this to Higher Education department upon completion.
Applications without these supporting documents will be returned to student for completion. Late applications will also be returned to be completed for the following semester.
It will be the student’s responsibility to submit all required documents and to verify receipt of the Financial Need’s Analysis by the Choctaw Higher Education Program.
It is recommended that you make copies of all documents before submitting.
ALL documents requested must be postmarked by the OCTOBER 1 DEADLINE.
NOTE: The earlier your information reaches us the earlier you may be awarded and your funds mailed.
Should you have questions, feel free to contact the Higher Education office.
The Choctaw Nation contracted the Higher Education Program on March 1, 1984, from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. This program will expend funds appropriated by Congress for the education of eligible Choctaws by providing financial assistance to attend an institution of higher learning, such as Junior Colleges and Universities.
In 1998, the Choctaw Nation contributed funds to start a scholarship program. Students will be assisted based on academics, rather than financial need. This program will ensure more Choctaw students the opportunity to receive educational assistance.
The Choctaw Nation will work to ensure that the special needs of the Choctaw students are individually considered with their assistance to prevent unnecessary withdrawals from higher education institutions.
DEADLINES: Applications and supporting documents will be accepted from April 1 to October 1 for Fall funding and until March 1 for spring funding. Incomplete applications and documents will be returned to the student for completion.
THESE DEADLINES APPLY TO RETURNING STUDENTS AS WELL AS FIRST TIME STUDENTS/APPLICANTS.
Guidelines for Funding
All awards are based on the availability of funds. Priority will be given to undergraduates. Maximum funding for the academic year: Grant: $1,600.00; Scholarship: $2,000.00.
Full Time Students are those enrolled in 12 or more hours. Part Time Students are those enrolled in at least 6 hours but less than 12 hours.
Grant - Amount will vary from year to year based upon the number of hours, financial need and classification for the previous semester.
- Part-time - $400.00 per semester
- Freshman - $500.00 per semester
- Sophomore - $600.00 per semester
- Junior - $700.00 per semester
- Senior - $800.00 per semester
Scholarship - amount will be based upon the student’s accumulative grade point average.
- Part-time - 2.50 $500.00 per semester
- 2.50 - 2.99 $600.00 per semester
- 3.00 - 3.49 $800.00 per semester
- 3.5 - 4.00 $1,000.00 per semester
Complete transcripts will be required for first time applicants. Funds will be determined based on overall performance.
Our program regulations will not allow us to pay for repeat classes.
Requirements For Eligibility
Students must be of Choctaw descent. Students affiliated with more than one tribe may receive assistance from only one tribe.
The applicant must be attending an accredited college or university and working towards a minimum of an Associates Degree. (We cannot help with vo-Techs, Certificates or correspondence courses.)
Expectations from the Student
- Full time students receiving a Grant are expected to earn a minimum of 12 hours per semester (6 hours for part time)with a GPA of no less than 2.0
- Students receiving a Scholarship are expected to earn a minimum of 12 hours per semester (6 for part time) with an accumulative GPA of no less than 2.5.
- Students earning less than the required GPA or earning less than 12 hours will be placed o n probation for o ne semester. At that time, students will be required to bring up their GPA and earn the required number of hours to remain o n the program. If these requirements are not met, the student will be placed on suspension from the program. * Students earning less than 12 hours and a GPA below 1.0 will be automatically suspended at the end of that semester.
- Students who withdraw from school officially, or unofficially, will be suspended unless there is a reasonable explanation presented in writing.
Applying for Financial Aid
The following tasks need to be completed between January and April, preceding the fall semester in which you plan to enroll.
- Request an application for federal student aid from the in institution you plan to attend (FAFSA Packet) .
- Respond immediately upon receiving the federal aid package to ensure funding
- Complete the admission’s application for the institute you plan to attend as soon as possible.
Summer Semester Funding - Only college seniors and students, currently on program, who are required to attend will be eligible for summer funding. Call in April for summer packet. The deadline for summer is July 1.
FOLLOW UP on APPLICATION STATUS PERIODICALLY.
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Adult Education Program
Adult Education Program
Neal Hawkins, Director
Phone: (580) 924-8280 or (800) 522-6170Kathy Springfield, Administrative Assistant
800-522-6170 Ext. 2122
This program is designed to provide educational opportunities for adult Native Americans who did not finish high school and will provide the basic education skills needed to acquire their GED Diploma. Many Native Americans have earned the GED diploma to get better jobs, higher wages, or to continue their education. Most employers and colleges consider the GED diploma equivalent to a high school diploma.
The Choctaw Nation GED program has qualified instructors to help prepare you to take the GED test. Classes are conducted within the 10 1/2 counties of the Chotaw Nation. In class, the instructors teach the Language Arts, Reading, Writing, Grammar and Mathematics. Each class lasts approximately three months. There are no costs for the classes; books and class supplies are provided for each student and the state GED testing fees are paid.
Upcoming GED Classes
Choctaw County Latimer County Bryan County LeFlore County
Eligibility requirements
- Certificate of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB)
- Government/State identification (driver’s license, etc. .)
- Must be 16 years of age or older, restrictions apply to persons under 18 years of age
Distance Learning GED classes
Distance Learning Classes are now available in Atoka, Coalgate, Talihina, Bethel, Smithville and Wright City.
An experienced GED teacher will instruct you using the OneNet Distance Learning Technology. Distance Learning allows students and teacher to see and hear each other on large monitors. Students will be able to interact with the teacher as they help you prepare to take the GED test.
Books, supplies and testing fees are provided. In addition, a $10.00 per day transportation stipend is paid to those who attend classes on a regular basis and attempt the GED test. The class will meet three days each week for approximately nine weeks. Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Adult Education Program is the official testing center for Durant.
GED Tests
The GED test consists of the following five tests:
- Language Arts, Writing
- Language Arts, Reading
- Mathematics
- Science
- Social Studies
The GED test is an 8 hour test. Testing is completed in two consecutive days, with each individual test having a set time limit. The Language Arts Section requires you to write an essay, and answer 50 grammar questions. The mathematics has two parts, part I permits the use of a scientific calculator and part II does not. Accomodations are available.
How Do I Apply?
Contact the Adult Education Department for an Application Packet. Print and complete the application packet, include a copy of your CDIB, or Membership card and a state issued picture ID.
Mail entire application and documents to:
Choctaw Nation Adult Education Department
P.O. Box 1210
Durant, OK 74702.Distance Learning GED classes are offered in select Chcotaw Nation Community Centers. The Adult Education program can assist with GED testing fees for those who live outside of the Choctaw Nation. Please contact our office to learn how we can help you.
Useful Links pertaining to Adult Education
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Johnson O-Malley Program
Johnson O’Malley Program
Rebecca Clapp, Director
Phone: 800-522-6170- Program Application
- Minutes Form (example)
- Parent Committee Claim Approval Form
- Parent Committee Election Certificate
On October l, l984, the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, under the jurisdiction of the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Muskogee Area Office, contracted the Johnson O’Malley Program.
As the prime contractor of the Johnson O’Malley Program in the l0-l/2 county service area of the Choctaw Nation, it is the responsibility of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma to administer JOM funds for the operation of supplemental programs for the education of eligible Indian students. The JOM Program currently is serving in excess of 8,640 students in approximately 68 schools.
According to Sec. 273.l2 of the Federal Register and Public Law 99-228, eligible students are Indian students, from age 3 through grade l2, except those who are enrolled in Bureau or sectarian operated schools, who is a member of a tribe or a descendant of a member of a tribe which is eligible for the special programs and services provided by the United States through the Bureau of Indian Affairs to Indians because of their status as Indians.
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PL102-477 Program (formerly WIA)
PL102-477 Program (formerly WIA)####
Patty Mink
Phone: (800) 522-6170
PL 102-477 is an employment and training program that strives to help Native Americans obtain long term employment and become self-sufficient.To qualify for the program you must: * Live within the 10 1/2 county service area * Be unemployed, underemployed or meet the Health and Human Service poverty guidelines * CDIB * Social Security Card * Residence verification * Income verification * Selective Service * Copy of DD-214 for proof of veteran’s eligibility * Doctor’s report (if disabled) * Driver’s license or photo ID PL 102-477 provides counseling, short term, long term training, classroom training, on the job training and work experience training. Supportive service is available for job retention. The PL 102-477 program is federally funded by the Department of Labor and the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.
If you have any other questions, feel free to call the WIA office.
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Child Care Assistance
Child Care Assistance Program
Marilyn Williams, Director
Phone: (580) 924-8280For more information please click here.
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Vocational Development Program
Vocational Development Program
Tony Messenger, Executive Director
Rita Workman, Director
Phone: (580) 924-8280 or (800) 522-6170Becky Bradley, Administrative Assistant
800-522-6170Vocational Development Program Application
This program offers financial assistance for Adult Vocational Training for up to a maximum of 24 month.
Guidelines
Be at least 1/4 Native American and have a CDIB showing the degree of Native American blood.
Be a high school graduate or have completed a GED course.
Live within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation.
Plan to attend an accredited college, institution, or vo-tech.To apply, you will need to fill out the Vocational Development Application