Navajo Prep leaders report on master plan, Diné Bizaad Institute opening and HVAC renovations

Shawna Becenti, Head of School, briefed the board on several operational priorities during the Oct. 24 meeting, including progress on a campus Master Plan re-design, plans for the Diné Bizaad Institute grand opening and planned HVAC renovations and upgrades at the Residential Home.

Dr. Darah Tabrum, Associate Head of School for Advancement & Outreach, summarized department highlights spanning technology, admissions, outreach and advocacy. Keith Neil, Associate Head of School for Academics & Operations, described preparations for parent-teacher conferences, the Santa Fe Indian School Feast Day involvement and elements of the School Improvement Plan including ridership data. Manuel Watchman, Division Director of Business & Human Services, reported that audit materials and other reports had been submitted to the Bureau of Indian Education, the New Mexico Indian Affairs Department, and the New Mexico Department of Finance and Administration, and presented the September financial statement (no dollar amounts were recorded in the minutes). Facilities & Operations Manager Jerrold Platero said a Bureau of Indian Education safety inspection identified minimal concerns across campus.

Mrs. Becenti also reviewed upcoming events and priorities where board-member attendance was requested, including a Central Agency meeting, the Diné Bizaad Institute grand opening, regional trainings, a winter work session and a staff holiday party. Vice President Jennifer Redhouse said a reauthorization resolution she and Keith Neil presented to the Fort Defiance Agency passed unanimously and that the school received positive community feedback.

The updates were presented for the board's information; the minutes record no further formal actions tied to these briefings.