DINÉ HISTORY

In 1960, English-as-a-second-language (ESL) instruction began at Rock Point School. Later in 1972, through the new approach of “quality Navajo education through local community control,” school board members were elected by the community. From this board of educators the school made a contract with the Bureau of Indian Affairs, United States Department of the Interior. The school proposed to operate as a K-6 elementary school and have more control over hiring and its curriculum. Since 1976, one grade a year was added. In 1982 Rock Point Community School had its first high school seniors graduated. Presently the community maintains to contract it operation under Public Law 93-638, the Indian Self-determination and Assistance Act.

On June 7, 2007, the percentages for the Language of instruction as well as the alignment of the curriculum were approved by the School Board as shown below. Currently, The Diné Studies provides vital language/cultural instruction so that individual learners gain knowledge of their identity, traditional wisdom, and values. In addition, the school feels that there is an urgency to preserve our language therefore our desire for our children is to learn, respect, preserve, promote, maintain, and revitalize our inheritance through the immersion programs.