Porterville College and Tule River Tribe of California Educational Partnership

illustration of two mountains with native american art and bald eagle on top of one mountain
 
The partnership between the Tule River Tribe of California and Porterville College is dedicated to fostering educational opportunities that honor Indigenous heritage and promote community advancement.
 
Mission Statement: To collaboratively provide accessible, culturally relevant educational programs that empower Tule River Tribal members, descendents, and the broader community, foster personal growth, professional development, and the preservation of Indigenous knowledge.
 
Goal: Increasing the number of Native American students to 10% of Porterville College's student population.
 
Key Objectives:
  1. Annual Launch Day Event:
    Collaborate with TRITC to host a Launch Day event at least once per year, fostering engagement between the college and the tribal community.
  2. Monthly Workshops:
    Conduct workshops throughout the academic year at TRITC locations, covering topics such as dual/concurrent enrollment, financial aid, scholarships, academic support, and the Native American Club.
  3. Flexible Course Offerings:
    Provide courses at various times and through multiple modalities, designed collaboratively with TRITC, to align with tribal pathways and needs.
  4. Workforce Development Training:
    Partner with the District Workforce Development Department to offer training in essential skills like Microsoft Word and Excel.
  5. Cultural and Educational Programs:
    Develop non-credit and credit courses or certificates focusing on the history, language, and culture of the TRITC, in partnership with the tribe.
  6. Experiential Learning Opportunities:
    Facilitate internships, job shadowing, and workforce placements to support tribal members and descendants in gaining hands-on experience.
  7. Shared Learning Spaces:
    Utilize TRITC’s facilities, including classrooms, an industrial kitchen at Landing 13, and outdoor areas, to offer educational programs like hospitality and culinary, ensuring mutually beneficial use of resources.
  8. Grant Opportunities for Native American Students:
    Collaborate with TRITC to identify and secure grant funding that supports educational programs and services for Native American students, promoting long-term success and sustainability.
This partnership is committed to breaking down barriers to education, honoring the rich cultural heritage of the Tule River Tribe, and building a foundation for future generations to thrive academically, professionally, and culturally.
 
Current courses offered at Tule River Reservation off-site location: 
 
Communication P102 - Interpersonal Communication Monday & Wednesday 12:50 PM - 2:15 PM CRN: 72919
Communication P103 - Persuasion Monday & Wednesday 11:15 AM - 12:40 PM CRN: 72911
Communication P105 - Argumentation and Debate Tuesday 3:00 PM - 4:25 PM
 
Note: All courses are offered at the Tule River Justice Center (off-site location)
 
Faculty can submit their courses to be added here:
Faculty Course Submission Form
Community members can use this form to request courses to be at the Tule River Tribe Reservation:
Course Request Form for the Tule River Tribe Reservation

Land Acknowledgement

Porterville College acknowledges that it resides on the unceded ancestral lands of the Yokuts people, who have cared for this land since time immemorial. We recognize the Tule River Tribe of California as the sovereign stewards of this region and honor their enduring connection to the land, water, and community. This acknowledgment recognizes the lasting impacts of colonization and displacement and affirms our commitment to respecting Indigenous sovereignty, culture, and history.​

As an institution of higher learning, we strive to foster a deeper understanding of the history of the land we occupy and the resilience of the Yokuts people. We are committed to building partnerships that amplify Indigenous voices, support culturally relevant education, and promote environmental stewardship rooted in the traditions of the Tule River Tribe.​

Porterville College encourages all members of our community to learn about the Indigenous peoples and histories of the land we inhabit and to engage in efforts that contribute to equity, reconciliation, and shared understanding.​

How to Become a Partner

If you are interested in becoming a partner of the Porterville College and Tule River Tribe of CA Partnership, please contact Marisa Rios, Program Technician of Student Success Programs at marisa.rios@portervillecollege.edu