By Dana Lance, Media Relations Specialist
Chickasaw Nation Media Relations Office

Offered twice a school year, the Chickasaw Nation After School program ranks high on Jordan Willis' favorite things to do.

Jordan, 10, and his sister Jaylee Willis, a first grader at Homer School, both participated in the six-week program, conducted Nov. 1-Dec. 10.

The siblings say the program is the highlight of their school year.

"You get to go swimming and to Lazer Zone and much more. It is so awesome," said Jordan.

Jaylee, a first time attendee, said she learned how to make nutritious snacks, such as grilled cheese sandwiches.

Utilizing tribal facilities, the program creates opportunities for students to learn new skills and knowledge, exercise and develop a healthy lifestyle.

School-aged Chickasaw students have an assigned activity each week day; including nutrition lessons, swimming, fitness, martial arts, lessons on Chickasaw culture and language and Friday trips to Lazer Zone.

A total of 20 kids from around the Ada area took part in the program this fall.

The After School Program is free of charge and will be offered again in the spring. The hours are 3:30 -5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admittance is based in first come-first serve basis for Chickasaw citizens and Chickasaw Nation employee's children.

For more information, contact Matt Folsom at (580) 310-6620 or visit www.chickasaw.net.