Native Languages Center

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Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute

Language

O’odham

The Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute (SIPI) is a federally funded tribal college located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It was established in 1971 as a vocational training center to provide education and training to Native American individuals from various tribes across the United States. SIPI's main focus is on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education, along with other vocational and technical programs.

Language

As an intertribal institution, SIPI is not affiliated with one specific Tribe or community, but works closely with numerous Native American Tribes and communities across the United States. SIPI does offer courses in Navajo language I & II.

Teaching Requirements in New Mexico

To teach Native American languages in New Mexico, individuals will need a specialized Native American Language and Culture Certificate, also known as a 520 NALC certification. ➚ A Native American Language and Culture certificate authorizes individuals to teach the Native language and cultures of specific Tribes and Pueblos in any grade K through 12. Requires verification from the Tribe or Pueblo authority that the candidate meets the standards and criteria for competence and language proficiency to teach the language and culture of the particular Tribe or Pueblo.

Explore More Language Programs

The map below shows the locations of the 37 TCUs across the country. To learn more about each TCU and the language programs offered within those institutions, hover over each pin on the map.

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