Diné College Honors Chinle High School Students for Academic Excellence
April 29, 2025
CHINLE, Ariz – Diné College’s Dual Credit Program celebrated the accomplishments of 25 Chinle High School students during an Academic Achievement Award ceremony held to honor their dedication to earning college credits while completing high school. The event showcased the program’s impact on empowering students to achieve academic success and prepare for higher education.
The Dual Credit Program, a partnership between Diné College and regional high schools, allows students to enroll in college-level courses such as Navajo Language, Mathematics, and Freshman English. These courses, which align with Diné College curricula, enable students to simultaneously fulfill high school requirements and earn college credits, providing a seamless transition to higher education.
During the ceremony, Dr. Raymond Andrade, Principal of Chinle High School, praised the students’ achievements and the collaboration between the college and the school. “This program exemplifies what is possible when high school students are encouraged to pursue excellence. Offering access to college-level courses helps students lay a strong foundation for their future academic and professional endeavors,” Andrade said.
Shyla Begay, a Dual Credit student and the event’s keynote speaker, shared her personal experience and reflected on the program’s influence. “On behalf of all Dual Credit students, I want to thank our teachers and leaders like Mr. Andrade and Mr. Denny for giving us these opportunities,” Begay said. “These classes challenge us, prepare us for the workload of higher education, and teach us to push beyond what we think is possible.”
Guidance Counselor Kenneth Sanford highlighted the long-term impact of the program on students’ futures. “This is a golden opportunity for students to challenge themselves academically and set a foundation for success,” Sanford remarked. “The program allows some students to graduate with both a high school diploma and an associate degree, giving them an advantage as they pursue higher education or enter their careers.” Sanford also pointed out that students can earn as many as 58 college credits, significantly reducing the time and cost required to complete a bachelor’s degree.
Francetta Begaye, Director of the Dual Credit Program, emphasized the program’s focus on student readiness for college and the importance of involved parents. “We ensure students not only gain the skills and knowledge needed for a seamless transition to college but also align their courses with degree pathways to save time and effort,” she explained. “Parental support is crucial in driving our students toward their goals. And seeing these students excel shows that the investment in their future is well justified.”
Courses within the Dual Credit Program are taught either on high school campuses or at Diné College, providing flexibility for students to balance their schedules. The program equips students with confidence and the academic skills needed to transition effectively into higher education, making it an invaluable resource for the community.
