North Carolina language center

Jackson center first in state to teach Cherokee languageTwenty-eight community sponsors, from individuals to big businesses like Lowe’s and Wal-Mart, donated money or in-kind services and materials for the center.

The center costs about $50,000, said organizer Vangie Stephens. Of that amount, $15,000 came from Tribal Council.

The center will serve 12 students a year on a first-come, first-served basis.

Stephens said the classroom is the only one in the state focused solely on teaching an American Indian language.