Release Date: Monday, April 26, 2010
By Dana Lance, Media Relations Specialist
Chickasaw Nation Media Relations Office
Chickasaw Nation Gov. Bill Anoatubby, center, is joined by several tribal elected officials and staff members to turn dirt for the tribal Science-Technology-Math Academy Monday, April 26, in Ada, Okla. From left, Chickasaw Nation Head Start director Danny Wells, architect Tim Elliott, program manager Lynne Chatfield, tribal Education Division Administrator Lisa John, Gov. Anoatubby, legislator Mary Jo Green, Lt. Gov. Jefferson Keel, legislators Dean McManus and Nancy Elliott and former Lt. Gov. Kennedy Brown. Back row, from left, Wayne King, Lori Hamilton, Michelle Key, Michelle Lewis, Sandy Sanders, Sara Willie, Jim Lawson, Stan Townsend, and Pam Walls.
More than 100 Chickasaw Nation officials, citizens and employees gathered with Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby to break ground on an innovative Science-Technology-Math Academy Monday, April 26, in Ada, Okla.
The 7,000 square foot building, located at 301 Seabrook Drive, will enable Chickasaw youth to explore education and career opportunities in the science, technology, engineering and math fields, said Gov. Anoatubby.
"We believe that by providing the proper tools and the knowledge within these fields, students will be able to take their education to the next level. This new Science- Technology- Math Academy will provide a facility where students can gain the skills that they need in these areas."
"Today, we celebrate the accomplishments of our youth and take a step toward providing the education and tools they need to become the leaders of tomorrow."
The new building will house tribal science, math and technology programs including the robotics program and Chickasaw Nation Aviation and Space Academy (CNASA).
Established in 2003, CNASA is a summer learning program designed to encourage Chickasaw students interested in aviation, space, science or math to pursue careers and opportunities in those fields. Students, ages 11-18, spend the week flying in simulators, learning through hands-on demonstrations, and have a chance to fly in a plane.
The building will provide the LEGO and robotics’ teams a place to conduct meetings, research information for projects, build robots, simulate tournament play, and utilize the flight simulator.
The robotics program advanced from one high school robotics team to seven science and technology related programs for students ages 6 to 18.
A classroom with SmartBoard technology will be available as an additional learning tool for students. The new facility will also include a large shop area, a kitchen, and office space.
The Science-Technology-Math Academy projected completion date is December 2010.
