San Juan College High School (SJCHS) student Amber Bizardie has earned the Navajo Nation Seal of Bilingual Proficiency at the Superior Level.
A prestigious recognition awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional fluency in the Diné language.
The honor celebrates Bizardie’s ability to speak, read and write Navajo at an advanced level while also highlighting her commitment to preserving Indigenous language and culture.
Family Encouragement Helped Preserve Language and Culture
From an early age, Bizardie’s parents encouraged her to continue speaking Navajo and embrace her cultural identity. Their support played a major role in helping her develop fluency and confidence in the language.
“From the very beginning, my parents spoke Navajo to me,” Bizardie said. “My mom would say, ‘If you speak Navajo, tʼáá shǫǫdí, please.’ My dad would always say, ‘Please, tʼáá shǫǫdí, speak your language, because if not, it could die out.’”
She said those conversations stayed with her throughout childhood and motivated her to continue learning every day.
“I tried my best to learn my language every day ever since I was a kid,” she added. “And next thing you know, I can speak Navajo in full sentences.”
Bizardie’s story reflects the importance of family, community and cultural preservation in keeping Indigenous languages alive for future generations.
Earning the Navajo Nation Seal of Bilingual Proficiency
The Navajo Nation Seal of Bilingual Proficiency is awarded to graduating seniors who successfully complete a comprehensive assessment administered by the Department of Diné Education. Students must demonstrate advanced communication skills in speaking, reading and writing the Diné language.
Receiving the seal at the Superior Level places Bizardie among students who have achieved the highest levels of bilingual proficiency and cultural literacy.
The recognition also highlights the growing value of bilingual education and Indigenous language preservation in higher education and professional opportunities.
“I think that knowing my language was something that made me stand out more to universities,” Bizardie said. “If you are a senior or going to be a senior and you’re Native American, I definitely feel that you should try taking the Seal Test.”
Dual Credit Education Creates Pathways to College Success
In addition to earning the Navajo Nation Seal of Bilingual Proficiency, Bizardie graduated this spring with both her high school diploma and an Associate Degree in Business Administration through the San Juan College dual credit program.
The dual credit program allows high school students to complete college coursework while earning credit toward both high school graduation and a college degree. Programs like this help students accelerate their education while reducing the time and cost required to complete a degree.
Bizardie’s academic success demonstrates the opportunities available to motivated students through San Juan College High School and dual credit education pathways.
Future Goals Include Business and Aerospace Engineering
Bizardie’s accomplishments have already opened doors to multiple higher education opportunities. She was accepted into the Business Administration program at the University of New Mexico (UNM) and the Engineering program at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (NMIMT).
She hopes to pursue a double major and has expressed a strong interest in Aerospace Engineering.
Celebrating Academic Excellence and Cultural Leadership
Amber Bizardie’s achievements represent more than academic success. They highlight the importance of preserving Indigenous languages, supporting bilingual education and creating pathways for students to succeed in college and beyond.
Through her dedication to the Diné language and her commitment to higher education, Bizardie is helping ensure that cultural knowledge continues to thrive for future generations.
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