Native American Academic Summer Program

Although summer is still several months away, the themes that guide NAAF’s Academic Summer Program continued to shape student learning throughout the year. Much of the fall was spent strengthening the cultural and language foundations that students build during the summer months. In October, students returned to weekly I:mig sessions where they practiced conversational O’odham, revisited traditional songs, and engaged in storytelling activities that helped maintain the confidence gained during summer immersion. These lessons remained a joyful part of the week and ensured that language learning stayed active long after camp ended.

Traditional games, a hallmark of the summer program, also continued to grow this quarter. In November, girls deepened their instruction in Toka, learning not only how to play but how to care for their sticks and understand the cultural responsibilities tied to the sport. Boys were introduced to Wuicuda, and staff began coordinating with a craftsman who can demonstrate traditional ball making. This preparation is an important step toward expanding traditional sports offerings in the 2026 summer camps and ensuring that students experience these games in their full cultural context.

December brought opportunities to connect cultural learning with community events. Winter break programming included arts and crafts days, games and strategy activities, and a basketball clinic at Al Jek Recreation Center, giving students a chance to participate in the same style of handson, multiage activities that define the summer program. Students also participated in Toka and Songiwuld at the Gu Vo field, giving them additional time to practice traditional games in a supportive environment. These gatherings helped maintain the sense of community and cultural pride that summer programming fosters each year.

Behind the scenes, staff spent the fall reviewing curriculum, strengthening partnerships, and identifying new cultural and language components for the upcoming 2026 camps. Planning efforts focused on expanding handson cultural activities, increasing language immersion opportunities, and ensuring that traditional games remain a central part of the summer experience. This preparation reflects NAAF’s commitment to offering a summer program that supports identity, wellness, and cultural continuity for O’odham youth. Summer can’t get here fast enough!