COARSEGOLD, CA – The Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians has strengthened its commitment to Chukchansi language preservation through a renewed partnership with the Yosemite Unified School District (YUSD). The three-year agreement ensures students can complete up to four years of Chukchansi language instruction, strengthening efforts to sustain and revitalize the tribe’s ancestral language. Prior to approval of the newly signed agreement, the tribe had entered into an agreement in 2022 originally, and these prior agreements were year-to-year.
“We are honored to continue supporting this program with YUSD, which keeps our language and traditions alive for future generations,” said Tracey Hopkins, Chairwoman of the Picayune Rancheria of the Chukchansi Indians. “Language is the foundation of our identity, and it is part of who we are as Indians. This partnership with YUSD ensures that the tribe retains ownership of our language.”
The program, initially launched three years ago, has flourished under the leadership of YUSD teacher and Chukchansi tribal member Kim Lawhon. With continued financial backing from the tribal council, Lawhon will work with Fresno State to enhance the curriculum at Coarsegold Elementary and Yosemite High School, ensuring it remains academically rigorous and culturally relevant. The tribe currently has several tribal members that speak the language effortlessly, including tribal elders, Jane and Holly Wyatt, who have been especially instrumental in the language program. The tribe as a family is extremely proud of Chukchansi heritage and tribal members that put forth the effort to learn the language to keep it moving forward for generations to come.
“This is more than just a language program – it is a step toward reclaiming and strengthening our cultural heritage,” said Chairwoman Hopkins. “By investing in our youth, we are securing the future of the Chukchansi people.”