The Tonkawa Tribe of Oklahoma will be hosting "The Native American Youth Symposium" on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 from 9:30 am- 2:45 pm, for grades 7-12th. Speakers/topics include: Native American history, DRUMS (Developing Responsible United Motivated Students), drug/alcohol education, stereotypes & misconceptions. All schools in the 5- county area (Kay, Noble, Garfield, Pawnee and Osage) are invited.

 

Understanding that Native students lead the nation and this state in school dropouts and suicide attempts and also understanding the underlying motives are most often substance abuse related, the Tonkawa Nation's SAMHSA program will be having this special day to help all those students most affected. We also acknowledge that, without question, our schools and educators are of paramount importance and the aim of this symposium will be to aid them in our mutual quest to best prepare our children for tomorrows challenge by motivating them with a day of new, stimulating and culturally specific events.

 

Centrally located Northern Oklahoma College in Tonkawa has graciously allowed the use of their Kinzar Performing Arts Theater to be the site for this event.

 

RSVP: A tee shirt, backpack and noon meal etc. will be supplied and though there is no charge to any school, student or participant, we do ask that everyone planning to attend, please advise us at the earliest possible date. For reservations, questions or additional information, please call Eva at (580) 628-7028 or email Project Director Danielle at dsmallwood@tonkawatribe.com .