SUBMITTED By RENISSA WALKER
KPEP
Parents, family and friends joined together at CCS’s Cultural Center to celebrate the third graduating class of Cherokee language immersion students from pre-k at Kituwah Academy on Thursday, July 21.
The ceremony included guest speakers Arnold Wachacha and Principal Chief Michell Hicks. The students performed several songs in Cherokee and also performed a play inspired by the book, If I Had a Bear, written by Mrs. Billie Jo Rich who works for the Kituwah Preservation & Education Program (KPEP).
Graduates included: Roxi Nvya Bark, Jenna Tsina Cruz, Breydan Nuna Ensley, Mato Anagalisgi Grant, Tyce Aquatega Hogner, Samuel Postoak, Champ Awianida Maney, Mason Soquili Salazar, Ezra Walosi Washington and Eva Ewi Welch.
Superlatives were presented by Mrs. Martha Ledford, Early Childhood Supervisor. Library awards were presented by Shawn Crowe on behalf of the Qualla Library. The Parent Volunteer of the year was presented to Helena Salazar and the Parent of the Year was presented to Sassy Washington.
“Congratulations to our graduates and thank you parents and families for your continued support of the program,” said Renissa Walker, KPEP manager.
