Hoop of Learning Program: A Gateway to College Success

Are you a Native American, high school student looking for an exciting and rewarding opportunity to get a head start on college without incurring tuition costs? Maricopa Community Colleges Hoop of Learning program is an early high school-to-college program designed for Native American students to take college courses while still attending high school. This scholarship-based, high school-to-college bridge program provides support services to ensure academic success and help Native American students graduate high school and navigate the college enrollment process. Let’s take a closer look at this amazing opportunity.

What is Hoop of Learning?

Established in 1995, the Hoop of Learning program allows Native American students to earn college credit while still in high school. Furthermore, the program reduces economic and cultural barriers that Indigenous students may face, while helping ease the transition from high school to college. 

The Hoop of Learning program was designed with the Native American approach to education at its core. Drawing from traditional values, the Hoop of Learning program focuses on providing students with lifelong learning development and confidence to help Native American students complete high school and advance into higher education programs. With an Indigenous-centered structure, Hoop of Learning creates positive educational success pathways.

The four primary goals or the Hoop of Learning program for students include:

1. Support high school graduation
2. Increase enrollment and participation in college
3. Empower students to reach their goals
4. Prepare students to succeed by removing barriers.

Benefits of Participating in Hoop of Learning

There are numerous benefits to being a Hoop of Learning student. First, the program allows you to earn college credit while still attending high school at no cost to you. This means when you enter college or university, you have some college credits under your belt, which saves you money and time in completing your degree. Additionally, through Hoop of Learning, you will also participate in cultural events, workshops, field trips, experience guest speakers, and meet other Native American students. Finally, Hoop of Learning coordinators provide one-on-one advising. In addition, you will have access to on-campus experiences and resources, including tutoring, counseling, the library, the computer lab, and much more.

Who Qualifies for Hoop of Learning

The Hoop of Learning program is an excellent opportunity for eager Native American high schoolers to take their learning to the next level. High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors are recruited to participate in the program. To qualify for the scholarship-based program, you must meet the following criteria:

• Must be a registered member of a state or federally-recognized tribal national
• Must have a 2.0 or higher grade point average (GPA)
• Must be actively enrolled in a high school and on track to graduate on time
• Applications can apply in the fall semester of their 9th, 10th, or 11th-grade year. 

You are still encouraged to apply even if you think you might only qualify for some of the requirements. Most programs start a new cohort of students in the summer semester, so check with the individual college for the exact dates and deadlines.

Ready to Apply?

Ready to take the next step in your educational journey? The Hoop of Learning program is available at nine Maricopa Community College campuses. Before you submit your application, you will need to contact the Hoop of Learning coordinator at the college you are interested in attending. Your coordinator will provide information about submitting your application and important deadlines.

When you are ready to apply, complete the online admission form and have the following documents readily available:

• Certificate of Indian Blood or Tribal ID
• High school transcripts (unofficial or official)
• Photo ID (Arizona State or high school).

Acceptance into Hoop of Learning

Once accepted into the Hoop of Learning program, you will contact your preferred college to accept the scholarship and attend a mandatory New Student and Parent Orientation. As a Hoop of Learning student, you are concurrently enrolled in high school and college courses, attending college classes during the summer and on Saturdays during the school year. During this time, you can earn general studies college credits toward an Associate’s degree or transfer to a university to earn your Bachelor’s degree.

The Hoop of Learning program provides Native American high school students an exciting 

chance to get ahead academically while still attending high school. By taking advantage of the scholarship-based opportunity, you will receive exclusive one-on-one advising and access to resources and services designed to help you succeed in your academic endeavors. 

So, if you are a Native American student interested in taking your education one step further without incurring extra costs, check out this excellent opportunity today!