Teacher Certification Math Workshop Supports Future Educators on the Navajo Nation
June 12, 2025
SHIPROCK, N.M. Diné College’s Northwest Teacher Education Program hosted a Teacher Certification Math Workshop at the John Pinto Library, focusing on preparation for the Praxis 5017 exam. The event brought together 15 participants through a hybrid format, offering both in-person and virtual attendance options.
The workshop featured Dr. Henry Fowler, co-founder of Navajo Math Circles and a respected advocate for math literacy and culturally responsive education. Dr. Fowler led the session with a focus on building math content knowledge, instructional strategies, and classroom confidence for aspiring teachers preparing to take the Praxis 5017 exam.
“There is a shortage of teachers on the Navajo Nation, and to see teacher candidates here at the workshop is amazing,” said Dr. Fowler. “They’re eager to educate our younger students. I’m glad that they are taking on these leadership roles in their communities, and that is what we are preparing them for — their Praxis 5017 exam.”
Kimberly Anne Dominguez, Executive Director of Teacher Education at Diné College, emphasized the importance of the workshop in supporting both current and future educators.
“This math teacher certification workshop supports both our teacher candidates and current educators in nearby schools by helping them prepare for their upcoming certification exams, enhance their math skills, and boost their confidence through improved teaching strategies,” Dominguez said.
Participants engaged in topics including algebraic thinking, problem-solving, curriculum planning, and assessment methods. The workshop aimed to strengthen both math skills and culturally relevant teaching strategies for educators working within Navajo communities.
For more information about upcoming teacher education programs, contact kdominguez@dinecollege.edu or aljishie@dinecollege.edu.
