Empowering Future Generations: The Cherokee Nation’s Strong Commitment to Youth in Agriculture Education

For Cherokees, farming is deeply important. It’s not just about growing food; it’s about culture and self-determination. A new investment in agriculture education at Sequoyah High School is set to pass this passion on to future generations.

At Sequoyah High School (SHS), for the first time, students will have access to agriculture education. Thanks to a collaboration between the Cherokee Nation, SHS, the Bureau of Indian Education, the Native American Agriculture Fund, and the Tribal Agriculture Fellowship, students will learn hands-on about livestock, crops, farming, ranching, and sustainability.

Currently, SHS has around 400 Cherokee and Native students. This program will lay the groundwork for those interested in careers in the growing agribusiness field. It aims to empower young people, boost the economy in northeast Oklahoma, and protect food sovereignty within the Cherokee Nation.

In rural Oklahoma, teaching agriculture is vital for local economies. Agriculture supports many communities, and the Cherokee Nation plans to equip Native youth with the skills needed for these jobs while allowing them to stay close to home.

Looking ahead, there’s a plan to hire a full-time agriculture teacher, create a school garden, and introduce farm-to-table concepts in the cafeteria. With strong support from school administrators, traditional Cherokee values will be emphasized, giving students diverse pathways to succeed.

This initiative is part of a broader investment in education. Recently, the Cherokee Nation signed a $65 million plan to enhance Sequoyah Schools, marking the largest investment in the school’s 153-year history. Together, these efforts will help maintain high standards of education in Indian Country.

With the help of partners like NAAF and BIE, the Cherokee Nation is focused on nurturing the next generation of Native agricultural leaders. This commitment aims to protect natural resources, provide quality education, and build a bright future for our communities.