FARMINGTON, N.M. – Navajo Preparatory School broke ground on a new $30 million Indigenous STEAM facility, marking a major investment in education that will bring Diné culture, creativity and technology together under one roof for generations of students.
The approximately 38,000-square-foot facility will expand opportunities in science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics while remaining grounded in Diné language, culture and values. Plans include new classrooms, educational labs, a maker space, film and digital arts areas, music and performance spaces, traditional weaving and silversmithing areas, administrative offices, a gallery and a future 427-seat auditorium.
“This $30 million facility, when it comes to STEAM, I think that’s a wonderful investment because our Navajo people are very in tune when it comes to engineering and the sciences, because we’ve been scientists and engineers for a very, very long time,” President Nygren said.
The project has received $2 million in federal funding secured by U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich, $10 million in New Mexico capital outlay funding and $6 million through the Tribal Infrastructure Fund.
Navajo Prep will seek additional matching funds from the Navajo Nation to help complete the final stage of the facility. President Nygren expressed his support for the additional investment, saying, “I will gladly approve and sign any funding that comes across my desk.”
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham highlighted Navajo Prep’s academic success and the importance of continuing to invest in its students. Navajo Prep has maintained a 94% or higher graduation rate since 2020, and 100% of its Class of 2026 has been accepted to a four-year college or university.
Serving 325 students, with representation from all 110 Navajo Nation chapters, Navajo Prep continues to prepare students for college, careers and leadership while strengthening the connection between innovation and Diné identity.
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren and New Mexico Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham joined Navajo Prep students and leadership for the groundbreaking ceremony. Also in attendance were Head of School Shawna Allison Becenti, Navajo Prep Board President Dr. Bernadette Todacheene, New Mexico State Senator William Sharer, and Alysa Landry representing U.S. Senator Martin Heinrich.
The groundbreaking represents more than a new building. It is an investment in the next generation of Navajo scientists, engineers, artists, creators and leaders.
