Cherokee Nation secures $1.2 million to support teacher training cohort

TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — The Cherokee Nation has secured $1.2 million in federal funding from the U.S. Department of Education to support a new teacher development initiative aimed at strengthening education in Native communities.

photo courtesy Northeastern University

The funding will support the Cherokee Nation Teacher Cohort, which will select 10 students from the Northeastern State University College of Education. Applications are expected to open in the spring.

The cohort will focus on students entering their junior year in fall 2026, providing targeted outreach and support during the final two years of their coursework. Participants will receive living stipends, additional scholarship opportunities, technology support, professional development, and opportunities for traditional cultural engagement.

As part of the program, students will serve with local teaching associations and complete classroom experience in schools with large Native student populations, helping prepare them for long-term careers in education within their communities.

Additional information is available by emailing teachercohort@cherokee.org

or calling 918-453-5300, ext. 5985.