Students attending Dine College will soon benefit from an agreement singed with Western New Mexico University, offering a seamless transition for candidates in the special education degree program.
The new partnership will give Dine College students admission to WNMU after earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. The students will then earn a Master of Arts in Teaching degree with a concentration in Special Education by attending WNMU fully online.
The Office of Navajo Nation Scholarship and Financial Assistance includes a stipulation in the agreement for financial aid recipients in the program to teach in Navajo schools for each year financial aid was received.
Leaders of both higher education institutions applauded the agreement that creates more opportunities for Native American students to earn master degrees and teach for the communities in which they reside.
“Education is a key component to economic development,” said Dr. Joseph Shepard, WNMU President. “I want these students to stay on the Nation and serve their communities. I am extremely proud to part of this agreement.”
The signing took place at the Office of the President of the Navajo Nation on July 31. It will become effective beginning this fall semester.