Hoop of Learning

Smiling student wearing Native American attire.

What is the Hoop of Learning Program?

The Hoop of Learning Program is an early high school initiative designed to help students stay in school, graduate, and pursue a college pathway. It emphasizes the development of strong cultural identities and integrity among young people, incorporating a culturally relevant curriculum focused on Native American history and themes. Native American students in grades 9 through 12 can earn college credits while still in high school through this program.

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Our Mission

Encourage, enable, and empower Native American students to complete high school and successfully transition into higher education.

  • Increase high school retention and graduation rates
  • Increase Native American participation and matriculation rates in college
  • Create the conditions for retaining Native American students to reach their higher education goals
  • Enhance Native American culturally relevant curriculum
  • Increase diversity of campuses
  • Strengthen external collaboration by establishing partnerships with Native American communities, school districts, and other agencies
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Eligibility

Native American Students enrolled in middle and high school grades 9–12 with a 2.0 or higher Grade Point Average (GPA) and good classroom attendance.

Students must:

  • Be an enrolled member of a federal/state-recognized tribe (or in the process of obtaining a census number).
  • Students must take assessment tests in Reading, Writing, and Mathematics.
  • Students must have a minimum 2.00 GPA in High School.
  • Student and Parent(s)/Guardian(s) are required to attend the mandatory orientation.
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Application Process

Students must submit the following:

  • A completed Hoop of Learning Application
  • SCC Student Admission Application
  • Copies of photo ID, U.S. Birth Certificate
  • Tribal Enrollment

Fill out and submit the online application for the Hoop of Learning Program. All prospective Hoop of Learning students must take the EdReady placement tests in English, Reading, and Math, which can be done online anytime or in person at SCC’s Testing Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (480) 423-6433. Additionally, all accepted students and their parents or guardians must attend a mandatory orientation before the first day of class.

Smiling student wearing Native American attire.

Ready to Apply?

Hoop of Learning Program applications are accepted year-round as spaces become available. Students may submit their applications to be placed on the waiting list for the upcoming semester. Students should contact the Hoop of Learning Program Coordinator for information regarding upcoming start dates.

Apply Now

After applying, please allow 3–5 business days for the SCC Hoop of Learning Program Coordinator to review the application materials. They will reach out to you via phone or email if they have any questions.

Program Contact

  • Demetria C. Shepherd (Navajo Nation)
  • Hoop of Learning Program Coordinator
  • Phone: (480) 425-6644
  • Email: demetria.shepherd@scottsdalecc.edu
  • Location: The Hoop of Learning Office is in the Student Center Building, next to the Welcome Center at Scottsdale Community College. Parking on campus is free, and you may use lots A, B, or C near the Student Center building.