Native American student academic performance rises sharply across Arizona school districts

Tom Horne Superintendent | Arizona Department of Education

When Tom Horne assumed office as Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction in January 2023, he was informed that only five percent of Native American students were proficient in core subjects. "When I took office in January 2023, I was informed that the average proficiency rate for Native American students was five percent. This was very upsetting to me, as it would affect the students’ employment prospects and quality of life.  I said that we would change everything we were doing in that respect and give total focus to increasing proficiency rates among Native American students. I met with tribal leaders who were shocked to learn about the five percent number and agreed with me that action had to be taken," Horne said.

Horne explained that collaboration between the Offices of Indian Education and School Improvement has been central to recent improvements. "The Offices of Indian Education and School Improvement have worked together to help improve outcomes for students – providing training, visiting schools, supporting teachers, principals, and superintendents, and working tirelessly to help schools and students succeed. With outstanding leadership from leaders of Native American districts, and our help, the proficiency rates of Native American students have soared."

The Chinle Unified District reported notable progress; three schools surpassed state averages in both Math and English. The district's overall proficiency increased from just over 20 percent in 2023 to 34 percent this year, with Many Farms school reaching a 45 percent proficiency rate. Similar gains were observed in Math.

Other districts also recorded significant improvements. Ganado Unified School District saw a 159 percent increase in student proficiency rates. Red Mesa Unified District experienced a 149 percent rise, Baboquivari Unified went up by 197 percent, Kayenta Unified School District increased by 122 percent, Sacaton Elementary District improved by 124 percent, and Tuba City Unified School District rose by 113 percent.