Navajo Nation education policy

Open Access Government focuses on the crucial education policy priorities for the future of the Navajo Nation

According to the Nygren Administration, the pandemic’s effects were felt in many areas, from business closures to the strain on healthcare professionals, the psychological impact, and the disruption of education and governmental services. The pandemic also highlighted the lack of broadband infrastructure, impacting remote telehealth and learning services.

The Nygren Administration’s main focus was on recovery and reconstruction, seizing chances for improvement and growth. Today, the administration is making progress and has developed a strategic plan for a brighter future for the Navajo Nation. (1)

Education news in the Navajo Nation

In recent news, 19 students at Northwestern High School were celebrated at their 2024 graduation. As they received their diplomas, they navigated the challenges of a pandemic and the new normal of e-learning. They were surrounded by family plus community love and support as they embarked on a new chapter of their lives. (2)

On May 10th, 2024, Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren delivered his speech in the heart of the Navajo Nation. One hundred eighteen diplomas and 114 certificates were awarded, and nine students will graduate from adult education.

President Nygren emphasized that dreams are attainable, but they demand significant effort. “Among you today is the future President of the Navajo Nation, the next Governor of Arizona, the next astronaut, the world’s greatest and most prolific weavers and moccasin makers,” said President Nygren. “And, of course, what matters the most is always just being you.” (3)

Near the end of May 2024, the beaded caps gleamed, and the feathers flew in the black graduation gowns that lined the field at Page High School. “Use your skills to improve the lives of our Diné and all tribal nations because we are all joined together. Whatever journey you take, know that you are more than capable,” President Nygren said.

President Nygren signed an executive order on May 17th, 2024, that allows for the wearing of regalia for Navajo students attending graduation ceremonies on or off Navajo boundaries. (4)

Future of Navajo Nation’s education

Delivering high-quality education and maintaining law and order are two pillars of the strength and future of the Navajo Nation, which were emphasized at the end of May 2024 during the fight for vital funds at the Tribal Interior Budget Council. (5)

At the beginning of the year, we learned that children are the future. In fact, “everything we do is to refine their mindset to prepare them for their future,” President Nygren said. “It is all about the hopes and dreams that you represent for your families. Our elders get up…every day to pray for the hopes and dreams that you represent for your families,” President Nygren continued.

The announcement included plans for ten new schools and a new trade school for the Navajo Nation by the Gallup-McKinley County School District. Tohatchi’s new high school will be a modern facility that reflects the community’s spirit and will include a gymnasium for up to 2,000 fans. (6)

In December 2023, President Nygren witnessed President Joe Biden sign an executive order that would overhaul federal funding and tribal support. During meetings with federal leaders, President Nygren promoted educational programs, economic growth, public safety investment and reform, plus healthcare. (7)

Navajo Nation education funding

Regarding President Nygren’s efforts to address mental health and social issues, it has been reported that the Navajo Nation Department of Social Services plans to allocate over $800 million to support Navajo youth.
“Our Navajo children are the future of our Nation. We must provide them with every opportunity to flourish and succeed in all aspects of life,” President Nygren said.

According to Navajo Division of Social Services Executive Director Thomas Cody, the substantial investment will enhance and preserve Diné culture and tradition.
Cody called the commitment “unprecedented” and a demonstration of the Navajo Nation’s dedication to investing in its future.

The Diné Action Plan outlines a decade-long strategy to enhance the Navajo Nation through unified policies and initiatives. “This is how we will continue to strengthen our communities and people for many generations to come,” President Nygren added. (8)

References

1. https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/record/
2. https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/a-class-of-graduates-small-in-numbers-big-in-heart/
3. https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/dine-college-graduates-over-one-hundred-students-at-the-spring-semester-commencement/
4. https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/page-high-school-senior-graduates-end-their-day-as-new-alumni/
5. https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/navajo-president-buu-nygren-navajo-nation-council-advocate-for-critical-financial-support-at-tribal-interior-budget-council/
6. https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/president-nygren-tohatchi-community-break-ground-for-tohatchi-high-school-replacement/
7. https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/navajo-president-buu-nygren-meets-president-joe-biden-at-white-house-tribal-nations-summit-for-order-signing/
8. https://opvp.navajo-nsn.gov/navajo-nation-division-of-social-services-to-use-800-million-to-empower-navajo-children/