PURCELL, Okla. — Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby led ribbon-cutting ceremonies to dedicate the Chickasaw Nation Purcell Child Development Center, May 26, significantly expanding education opportunities for area citizens.
The new Chickasaw Nation Child Development Center, located on the Chickasaw Nation Purcell campus, 1535 Hardcastle Blvd., represents an important milestone in early childhood education for the children and families in the Purcell community, Governor Anoatubby said.
“For decades, the Chickasaw Nation has invested in resources that support the growth and education of our youth beginning at the earliest stages of development, because we understand the long-term positive impact a healthy learning environment makes in the lives of young children.”
Governor Anoatubby said the new facility reflects the Chickasaw Nation’s emphasis on providing educational opportunities for its citizens in an effort to meet the mission, to enhance the overall quality of life of the Chickasaw people.
“This new facility is part of the Chickasaw Nation’s long-standing commitment to preparing our children for long-term success. It starts here, and it builds toward an even brighter future for the Chickasaw people,” he said. “With today’s dedication, we celebrate our newest addition with excitement to soon begin serving children and families in the Purcell area.”
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. In addition to the Purcell facility, a new Chickasaw Nation Child Development Center is slated to open in Tishomingo.
The Purcell Child Development Center offers more than 16,400 square feet of space. Along with fairy-tale-themed interior corridors and dinosaur and ocean-themed wings, the facility features whimsical storefronts and characters designed to transport children into a storybook world.
The new facility features eight classrooms, two indoor play areas, a teacher workroom and breakroom, first-aid room, laundry room, commercial kitchen and dining area, and two storm shelter areas.
The exterior includes two playgrounds and covered parking for parent drop-off and pickup.
The Chickasaw Nation Child Development Centers’ dedicated professionals provide a secure and supportive environment that encourages interaction skills and learning through play. Health and wellness are also vital components, and early detection screenings for hearing, vision, dental and development are incorporated into the curriculum. In addition, early intervention staff are also available to assist children with health or learning conditions.
Chickasaw culture and language are woven into the curriculum, fostering an early awareness and appreciation of the vibrant Chickasaw culture, Governor Anoatubby said.
“A fundamental aspect of our culture has always been community. Our child development centers reinforce and extend that tradition by partnering with families and caregivers throughout the learning journey. We appreciate the opportunity to work together to provide youth with the support and resources to fulfill their potential, and we are honored to be a part of that process.”
For more information, visit Chickasaw.net or contact the Chickasaw Nation Department of Education at (580) 421-7711.