Osage Nation Hosts Wahzhazhe Early Learning Academy Ribbon Cutting

Ribbon-cutting is to take place on Monday, November 25, at 10 a.m.

OSAGE NATION RESERVATION, OKLA. (November 22, 2024) – Osage Nation proudly announces the ribbon cutting for the new Wahzhazhe Early Learning Academy (WELA) on Monday, November 25, 2024, at 10 a.m. The new building is 18,752 square feet, which includes eight classrooms, outdoor creative spaces and a playground, kitchen, storm shelter, two indoor gross motor skills classrooms, a teacher training room, and office space for Wahzhazhe Early Learning Academy administration and Pawhuska Wahzhazhe Early Learning Academy Staff. 

“We could not be more excited to open the doors to our WELA team and families,” said WELA Director Tara McKinney. “This beautiful facility will nourish our youth to learn and grow while surrounded by Osage culture and a lot of love.” 

Osage Nation worked closely with Selser Schaefer Architects to develop cultural design components, including Osage orthography. The $7.8 million project was funded by the Child Care and Development Fund ARP Stabilization Grant, Office of Child Care with the Administration for Children and Families through the United States Department of Health and Human Services, and Osage Nation Tribal ARPA Funds. 

All community members are invited to attend the ribbon cutting, followed by refreshments and a tour.