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Hoop of Learning
The Hoop of Learning Program is an early college high school bridge program administered by the Maricopa Community Colleges. Born from a need to help Native American students stay in school and pursue a college degree, the Hoop of Learning Program has celebrated over a decade of success and continues to grow. The Hoop of Learning Program model offers a conceptual program design tailored specifically to meet the academic and cultural needs of Native American students. Basic tenets of the model replicate the indigenous Cirle of Life philosophy long practiced by all Native American peoples of the North and South Americas. These tenets include:
- Traditional Native worldview of lifelong development
- Developing strong positive cultural identities and integrity
- Culturally relevant education
- Traditional Tribal community facilitated by a broad network of relations
- Individuals contributing to the well being of the community
- Native people serving as role models
The Hoop of Learning Program has now expanded to multiple colleges and serves Native American students throughout Maricopa County. Plans are underway to develop a comprehensive training program to broaden the network of available faculty and staff to serve as resources for the Hoop of Learning Program.
Information on the Hoop experience at a college near you can be accessed at the following:
Chandler Gilbert Community College
Laura Matyas (480.732.7205)
Estrella Mountain Community College
Lauren Shellenbarger (623.935.8808)
GateWay Community College
Carolyn O'Connor (602.286.8031)
Henry Begay (602.286.8176)
Glendale Community College
Jose Mendoza (623.845.3079)
Mesa Community College
Bo Colbert (480.461.7931)
Paradise Valley Community College
Amber West Martin (602.787.7172)
Phoenix College
Rebecca Valenzuela (602.285.7618)
Scottsdale Community College
Ana Cuddington (480.423.6502)
South Mountain Community College
Lynette Jim (602.243.8314)
• site maintained by Suzanne Martin•
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