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Diné
(Navajo) as a Home Language
Language:
Diné (Navajo)
Program
Base: Elementary school, middle school, and high school in Bloomfield,
NM
Goals:
- To
teach children to converse with peers, parents, and elders.
- To
teach children to read Navajo.
- To
teach children to write in the Navajo language.
Brief
Description:
Bilingually endorsed, licensed, and fluent Navajo teachers provide
instruction at each grade level, following the state bilingual education
guidelines. The district, Bloomfield Schools, incorporates culture
with language. At the secondary level the district has beginning,
intermediate, and advanced Diné (Navajo) language classes
addressing oral speaking, conversational skills, reading, and writing
in the language. The program also follows the Diné Language
and Culture Framework put out by the Diné Nation Education
Department. Students do not have to be American Indian to participate
in the classes.
The
program began in 1985. The district was able to order Navajo language
materials, but a committee was assigned to work on the scope and
sequence of the curriculum for K-7, which is ongoing.
Materials:
Books and children's stories.
Support:
Title IX (Indian Education), Johnson O'Malley, and state department
of education funds support the program. Fluent native speakers,
a language and culture committee, and volunteers have all assisted
the program, while collaboration with a school has been a source
of support as well.
Contact
Information:
Lena Naton, Assistant Federal Programs Director/Bilingual Director
Bloomfield Schools
325 North Bergin Lane
Bloomfield, NM 87413
(505) 632-4314/ Fax: (505) 632-4371
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