Pinon High School Recognizes Outstanding Dual Credit Achievements in Collaboration with Diné College
May 06, 2025
PINON, Ariz. The 2024-2025 Diné College Dual Credit Awards Program celebrated the accomplishments of Pinon High School students in a ceremony held at the high school auditorium. The event highlighted the success of the dual credit program, which enables students to earn college credits during high school. It honored the dedication of faculty, students, parents, and community members.
“This program has opened a whole new door for our students,” said Timothy Nelson, principal of Pinon High School. “What’s truly remarkable is how many of our students are leaving high school already prepared to step into higher education. Many of them have earned enough credits to bypass their first year of college, going straight into their sophomore year.”
Pinon High School’s dual credit program, offered in partnership with Diné College, was lauded for its expansive course selection, offering studies in math, English, science, and Navajo language. Principal Nelson noted, “Fifty percent of our students are enrolled in dual credit courses, starting from their first year. This year marked the debut of Navajo language courses for younger students, further enhancing the program.”
During the ceremony, Francetta Begaye, Dual Credit Director for Diné College, delivered inspiring remarks to students and their families. “The partnership between Diné College and Pinon High School began with persistence and vision. Today, we see its tangible results. Your students aren’t just leaving with a handful of credits; they’re graduating with up to 34 credits, putting them steps ahead in life.”
Begaye expressed her gratitude to Pinon High School faculty and Principal Nelson, emphasizing their role in sustaining the program’s growth. “Pinon has the most credentialed faculty in the area, allowing dual credit courses to be taught year-round at the high school. This dedication ensures students receive comprehensive instruction within their community.”
The program’s positive impact has been transformational, according to Nelson. When he assumed leadership of Pinon High School in 2019, enrollment was at 274 students. “Today, our student body totals 350 and continues to grow, primarily due to the success of the dual credit program,” Nelson explained. “Graduation rates have also soared, with this year’s class projected to be one of our largest at 80 students.”
Lukas James, a senior dual credit student, closed the ceremony by addressing the community’s role in shaping student success. “Your dedication and collaboration go far beyond the classroom. Together, we’ve created a culture of achievement that raises expectations for what is possible.”
Savannah Etsitty, student master of ceremonies, and faculty members Gloria Denny, Imelda Cayabyab, Michael Ferrer, Lillian Ferrer, and Jovencio Tierra presented honor cords to graduating seniors during the ceremony. Their recognition highlighted the collaborative effort that fuels the program.
Reflecting on the program’s future, Begaye outlined her vision. “My goal is for students to graduate with a general education degree, ready to pursue careers in science, humanities, or fine arts. This is only the beginning,” she said.
Nelson reaffirmed his commitment to promoting opportunity. “Over the last six years, we’ve built something extraordinary. Next year, we’re expanding further, offering dual credit through Navajo Technical University for Career and Technical Education programs.”
For Pinon High School and Diné College, the dual credit program exemplifies the strength of partnerships and the boundless potential of their students.
