Departments

Education

Upcoming programing

Education Department Mission:

2024 Pascua Yaqui Tribe Regional Needs and Assets Report

Develop a path for lifelong learning through Educational Services while promoting Yaqui Heritage and Tribal Self-Sufficiency for members of the Pascua Yaqui Tribe.

Mission Intent:

Support Tribal Self-Sufficiency.

Foster the Development of Lifelong Learners.

Establish a Comprehensive Pipeline of Student Services to Enhance Academic Achievement and Educational Attainment.

Promote and preserve the Hiaki language.

Eliminate barriers Hindering Student Success.

Enhance Economic Opportunities within the Tribal Community.

Department Services:

Ili Uusim Mahtawapo

Early Childhood “Ili Uusim Mahtawapo” (Where Little Children are Taught) is a Head Start program serving eligible children and tribal members ages 3-5. It offers a curriculum integrating the Hiaki language with school readiness, covering language development, literacy, math, science, creative arts, social-emotional growth, new learning approaches, and physical health. Staff coordinate nutrition, health, disability, and family/community services to support children’s overall wellness and educational readiness.

Yaqui Education Services

Yaqui Education Services (YES) includes K-12 and Higher Education Programs, funded by Johnson O’Malley and tribal support. Established under the 1934 Johnson O’Malley Act, YES ensures Native American students have access to educational opportunities, providing specialized services to meet Yaqui students’ unique needs

Higher Education Assistance Program

The Higher Education Assistance Program (HEAP) provides supplemental funding for tuition and fees to enrolled Pascua Yaqui Tribal members attending accredited, public, not-for-profit colleges or universities. Applicants must be registered for courses at their respective institutions to qualify.

Adult and Continuing Education

The Adult and Continuing Education program provides Adult Basic Education and GED classes that develop employability skills and help students improve reading, math, and language abilities in a supportive, small class setting.

Dr. Fernando Escalante Library

Honoring Dr. Fernando Escalante’s commitment to language preservation and education, the Pascua Yaqui Tribe offers excellent library services. These services continue to expand digitally nationwide and serve communities in Old Pascua, South Tucson, Marana, Coolidge, and Guadalupe.

The Teacher Language Institute

The Teacher Language Institute is an eleven-month Yaqui language immersion program designed for certified teachers seeking Hiaki language certification. The program enhances mastery of linguistic principles for Yaqui language revitalization and provides extensive training in instructional best practices. Participants develop a comprehensive portfolio of culturally responsive lessons and activities for primary school levels, create a crosswalk aligning Common Core standards with Yaqui Lifeways, and design a companion curriculum for Pre-K to 1st grade, integrating Yaqui language, culture, and social-emotional learning. Teachers who complete the program and pass its assessment will become certified Hiaki language instructors.

Address and Contact Information:

7400 S. Settler Rd

Tucson, AZ 85746

520-883-5050