Choctaw language class celebrates a year of success

• Currently, Choctaw language classes are available in 32 high schools with approximately 700 students enrolled.





DURANT, Okla. – High school students from across the Choctaw Nation traveled to the Event Center in Durant on May 1 to attend the annual Language Finale, an event held to acknowledge the accomplishments of students enrolled in the Choctaw School of Language. The event was a fun gathering of students laced with cultural activities, presentations and words of encouragement.



Choctaw singer Brad Joe initiated the proceedings when he sang the Lord’s Prayer, completely in the Choctaw language, as Miss Choctaw Nation Cheyenne Murray interpreted in sign language. The Coalgate Community Language Class then sang the National Anthem in Choctaw following the posting of the colors by the Choctaw Nation Color Guard.



Other presentations from students included a reading of Choctaw Hymn 48, “Prayer To The Holy Spirit,” by a trio from Colbert High School, and an action skit of “Bigfoot Returns,” presented by Broken Bow students. As they appeared on stage, all students spoke entirely in Choctaw, demonstrating their growing skills in the enduring language of their ancestors.



“I appreciate everyone that made the event possible. The staff for their contributions, and the students for all of their hard work during the year,” stated Director of Choctaw Language Department Jim Parrish.



Chief Greg Pyle, Assistant Chief Gary Batton and tribal council members were in attendance to display their support for the efforts of the Choctaw youth. Pyle and Batton addressed the audience, exhorting their appreciation for the efforts set forth by the students to learn the language of their people.



Parrish then recognized language teachers Eleanor Caldwell and Charles Hines for their services to the Choctaw language efforts by presenting them each with a certificate of appreciation. “They have both been a great asset to the department and strong contributors to the spreading of the Choctaw language,” stated Parrish.



Following the conclusion of the on stage presentations, Choctaw traditional dancers then took the attention of the crowd, first demonstrating dances and then involving the students in the act. During the Stealing Partners Dance, many members of the audience were “stolen,” and encouraged to dance.



Pizza and drinks were provided proceeding the dancing, allowing students and faculty to fellowship with other schools offering the Choctaw language courses. Door prizes were also given during the occasion, adding to the excitement of the day.



Currently, Choctaw language classes are available in 32 high schools with approximately 700 students enrolled. If you would like to know more about Choctaw language education, visit choctawschool.com or call 800.522.6170 x2250







PHOTOS COURTESY CHOCTAW NATION OF OKLAHOMA



Students from Broken Bow present the skit, “Big Foot Returns,” while speaking completely in Choctaw.







