Navajo Preparatory School
Updated July 2026
IB Diploma
Cognia
Navajo Preparatory School is the only Navajo-sanctioned, residential, college-preparatory high school for Native Americans, dedicated to preparing students for higher education and leadership. It offers a rigorous academic curriculum that integrates traditional Navajo culture with international educational standards.
Curriculum
Teaching approach
Navajo Preparatory School is rooted in the Navajo philosophy of learning, aiming to prepare students for post-secondary education while fostering a deep appreciation for Navajo language, culture, and history. The school’s motto, "Leaders Now and Into the Future," reflects its commitment to developing inquisitive, compassionate leaders who can navigate both indigenous and mainstream worlds. The institution emphasizes the IB Learner Profile, promoting a holistic worldview, intercultural understanding, and respect for diverse perspectives.
Programmes
The school offers a rigorous college-preparatory curriculum for grades 9–12, with the International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme serving as an integral component. Juniors and Seniors may pursue the full IB Diploma Programme—which includes six courses, the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge, and Creativity, Activity, Service (CAS)—or select individual IB courses for certification. The school is also a candidate for the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Freshmen and Sophomores. Additionally, the school prioritizes Navajo language instruction, with students eligible to earn the Navajo Language Seal of Bilingual Proficiency.
Student support
Learning support
The school provides comprehensive student support services, including health services and academic tutoring. Tutoring is available Monday through Thursday evenings to assist students with their coursework and preparation for high-stakes standardized tests. Additionally, the school employs professional counselors to support student well-being and transition needs.
Frequently asked questions(5)
- What curriculum does Navajo Preparatory School offer?
- Navajo Preparatory School offers IB Diploma and IB MYP.
- How much is tuition at Navajo Preparatory School?
- Annual tuition at Navajo Preparatory School is $800–$3K. Fees vary by year group — confirm the current schedule with the school.
- What accreditations does Navajo Preparatory School hold?
- Navajo Preparatory School holds accreditations including Cognia and IB.
- Is Navajo Preparatory School co-educational?
- Navajo Preparatory School is a co-ed school.
- Where is Navajo Preparatory School located?
- Navajo Preparatory School is an international school in Farmington, United States.
Tuition & fees
Annual tuition by grade
2025-2026| Grade | Ages | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Grade 9-12 (Residential) | 14–18 | $1.1K |
| Grade 9-12 (Day) | 14–18 | $800 |
| Grade 9-12 (Non-Native) | 14–18 | $3K |
Source:PDFPayschedule-SY-25.26-1.pdfPDFAcademic_Honesty_in_the_Diploma_Programme.pdf
Other fees(1)
| Deposit· Non-refundable residential deposit | $50 |
|---|
Admissions
Navajo Preparatory School serves students in grades 9–12 and welcomes both Native and non-Native applicants. The admissions process for the upcoming school year typically opens on September 1st of the preceding year, and prospective families are encouraged to attend "Discovery Days" to tour the campus and meet staff. Applicants must submit required documentation, including academic transcripts and recommendations, to be considered for the college-preparatory program.
Calendar
The school operates on an academic calendar that includes orientation sessions for new students and staff in late July. The academic year is structured to support the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme, with summative IB exams for Juniors and Seniors scheduled in the spring.
Facilities
About the campus
Located in Farmington, New Mexico, the campus features a library housing over 9,000 items, including books, audiobooks, and digital resources, alongside a mobile computer lab. The school provides residential facilities to support its mission of fostering independence, as well as dining services and athletic facilities. Students have access to various online research databases, printing services, and dedicated study spaces.
Shawna Allison BecentiHead of SchoolAn alumna of Navajo Preparatory School, Mrs. Becenti holds a Bachelor’s in Secondary Education from UNM and a Master of School Administration from NMSU. She has extensive experience in education, including serving as a teacher, athletic director, and principal at Kirtland Central High School before returning to lead Navajo Prep.
Keith NeilAssociate Head of School for Academics and OperationsMr. Neil holds a Bachelor’s in Social Sciences, a Master’s in Business Administration, and an Educational Administration license. He has served in various educational roles, including Dean of Students, Assistant Principal, and Athletic Director, before joining Navajo Prep in 2018 as Dean of Instruction.
Dr. Darah TabrumAssociate Head of School for Advancement and OutreachDr. Tabrum has worked at Navajo Prep since 2019 and holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership from New Mexico State University. Her background includes teaching college success, gifted education, and coordinating college access initiatives.
Roderick DenetsoDivision Director of Student Life and WellnessMr. Denetso holds a Master's degree as a Clinical Social Worker and a B.S. in Family Studies/Human Development. He has served at Navajo Prep for approximately nine years in roles including Dean of Student Life and Admissions Coordinator.
Manuel WatchmanDivision Director of Business and Human ServicesMr. Watchman holds a Bachelor's degree in International Relations from Boston University and a Master's degree in Finance from the University of Massachusetts. He brings twelve years of HR experience to his role at the school.
Kevin BelinDirector of the Diné Bizaad InstituteMr. Belin is an adjunct instructor with Diné College and has worked in the education field for nearly a decade. He focuses on perpetuating Navajo language and culture through curriculum building and scaffolded instruction.
April CheeExecutive Assistant to the Head of SchoolMs. Chee holds a degree in Native American Studies from the University of New Mexico. Since February 2024, she has served as the Executive Assistant to the Head of School, acting as a liaison to the Board of Trustees and overseeing administrative functions.