Cherokee Nation tag money checks go out to schools Friday

The Cherokee Nation is giving financially strapped local schools a $1.2-million boost. And it couldn't have come at a better time. <br><br>The Cherokee Nation says it is setting aside 38% of tag sales

Thursday, January 23rd 2003, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

The Cherokee Nation is giving financially strapped local schools a $1.2-million boost. And it couldn't have come at a better time.

The Cherokee Nation says it is setting aside 38% of tag sales for schools all across Northeastern Oklahoma. The money will benefit more than 300 public schools in the Cherokee Nation. The money was divided based on the number of Cherokee students enrolled at each school.

The tribe says the gesture symbolizes its commitment to education. Chad Smith, Cherokee Nation Chief: "The Cherokee Nation since the Trail of Tears has been a leader in education its one of the two passions we have and we certainly wanted to invest back to our children.â€

Tulsa schools will receive nearly $70,000. Tahlequah Schools are getting the biggest chunk of the tag sales money.

The checks are set to go out to the school districts Friday.