This paper discusses the contribution of school-based mother-tongue literacy to the maintenance and renewal of endangered languages, with Navajo as the case in point. Although Navajo claims the most speakers among U.S. indigenous languages, the absolute number and relative proportion of Navajo speakers have declined drastically in the last 30…

Using comparative data from two Navajo community-school contexts, this article details the conditions within these and similar contexts that enable schools to authentically use and validate the local language. Six social engineering strategies are presented as a means to build dual-language programs. (seven references) (MDM)

The Navajo tribe adopted a policy in 1985 that encourages all schools with Navajo students to teach Navajo language and culture in addition to the regular curriculum. A review of the recent studies and literature reveals that most support the concept of bilingual/bicultural education in one form or another. The consensus seems to be that teacher's…

Historical research account of the Navajo Bilingual School at Rough Rock, Arizona. The Rough Rock Demonstration School was a bilingual experiment to synthesize white education with a community Navajo school, utilizing both Navajo and white teachers, and headed by an all-Navajo administration. (Author/FMW)

Reviews research on maintaining and revitalizing American Indian languages, focusing on the interrelationship of language and culture; Fishman's theoretical paradigm for reversing language shift; national and tribal language policies; and examples of native language instruction at the early childhood, elementary, secondary, and tribal college…