Tahlequah High School has a strong network of community partnerships that significantly contribute to providing students with valuable post-secondary opportunities. Collaborating with various local businesses, THS ensures students are prepared for both college and careers through unique hands-on experiences, job readiness programs, and financial assistance initiatives. THS partners with ICTC to support career development and workforce placement. Sophomore students at THS tour the ICTC campus to explore available programs. Students who are interested can apply and, if accepted, attend ICTC during their Junior and Senior years. Upon completion of their programs, students earn certifications in fields such as: Welding, CMA (Certified Medical Assistant), LPN, Auto Collision, Heavy Equipment Operator, Electrical, HVAC, Cosmetology, Graphic Design. Currently, 164 THS students attend the ICTC Tahlequah campus, with 11 students at the Muskogee campus.
THS also has a long-standing partnership with Northeastern State University, allowing Juniors and Seniors to take concurrent college classes. This year, 31 Juniors and 68 Seniors are enrolled in these courses. The Oklahoma State Regents cover up to 18 credit hours of tuition for Seniors, and 9 credit hours of tuition for Juniors. Additionally, THS has received the State Regents GearUp Grant for the next seven years. Through this grant, students will receive direct support services including college campus tours; ACT preparation and testing; career exploration and college preparation courses; college application and enrollment assistance; funding for junior and senior concurrent enrollment fees; and one-on-one- guidance with FAFSA and Oklahoma Promise applications. In addition, GEAR UP will provide multiple services for emergency-certified, alternatively certified, and first-year teachers, including individualized instructional coaching. GEAR UP will also offer professional development opportunities to help teachers and faculty address student achievement, academic interventions, and common assessments. Native American students benefit from additional financial assistance opportunities provided by their respective tribes, both for concurrent classes and post-graduation college attendance.
Through THS’s internship class, students are paired with local businesses to explore potential career paths. This initiative provides students with job shadowing experiences to help them determine whether a particular career is right for them. Over 20 students are currently enrolled in this class, and some of the businesses offering internships include: Downtown Family Dentistry, Premier Dentistry, NEO Health/Hospital, Walnut Grove Animal Clinic, Tahlequah Drug Company, Tahlequah Public Library, Tahlequah Fire Department, Tahlequah Police Department, Armstrong Bank, Cherokee Nation Department of Transportation, Premier Pet Clinic, BJ Baker Law, Work Ready, Tahlequah Airport, Cherokee County Courthouse and TPS schools.
In collaboration with the Tahlequah Area Chamber of Commerce Education Committee, THS Senior students participate in the “Reality Check” simulation activity. This activity will be held on March 12, 2026, and teaches students about budgeting, distinguishing between essential and luxury expenses, and managing finances. Students will visit booths hosted by local businesses covering categories like housing, transportation, banking, insurance, and utilities to evaluate if they can afford these services within their budget. The Tahlequah Chamber Education Committee, in partnership with NSU and local businesses, also honors the top 5% of THS’s 2026 graduating class at an Honor Graduate Luncheon. Each top student is sponsored by a local business, and during the event, the student and their business sponsor will share lunch together. The business representative will introduce the students, highlight their academic achievements, and present them with a plaque as recognition of their success.
These numerous community partnerships play an essential role in shaping the educational experience at Tahlequah High School. By providing access to real-world experiences, financial support, and recognition of student achievements, these collaborations help prepare THS students for successful futures in both the workforce and higher education. Tahlequah’s close-knit community continues to prioritize the success of its youth, ensuring they have access to the resources and opportunities they need to thrive.
DeAnn Mashburn, Assistant Superintendent