We are thrilled to celebrate San Juan College High School’s Amber Bizardie for earning the Navajo Nation Seal of Bilingual Proficiency at the Superior Level! This prestigious award honors students who have mastered the Diné language, a truly remarkable achievement.
“From the very beginning, my parents spoke Navajo to me. My mom would say, ‘If you speak Navajo, tʼáá shǫǫdí, please.’ My dad, he would always say, 'Please, tʼáá shǫǫdí, speak your language, because if not, it could die out,’” said Amber. “I tried my best to learn my language every day, and ever since I was a kid, I'd be like, ‘What does that mean? How would you say that in Navajo?’ And I just kept on adding to my vocabulary. And next thing you know, I can speak Navajo in full sentences.”
Amber began attending Farmington Municipal Schools after 2nd grade, studying at McCormick and Esperanza.
This May, Amber is earning both a high school diploma and an Associate's Degree in Business Administration from San Juan College. She has been accepted into the Business Administration program at the University of New Mexico and the Engineering program at New Mexico Tech, with plans to double-major and potentially focus on Aerospace Engineering, the field dedicated to designing, developing, testing, and producing aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and related systems.
“I think that knowing my language was something that made me stand out more to universities. So, I definitely think that 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. And who knows, maybe you'll also get an advanced or superior level,” she added.
Congratulations on this well-earned success, Amber, and for carrying the Navajo language and traditions with dedication and pride, ensuring they thrive for future generations.
The Navajo Nation Seal of Bilingual Proficiency Assessment (NNSOBPA) Awards Banquet will celebrate students who have earned the Navajo Nation Seal of Bilingual Proficiency and acknowledge their important role in preserving and sustaining the Diné language on Friday, April 17, 2026, from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at the Fire Rock Navajo Casino in Gallup.
To receive the Navajo Nation Seal of Bilingual Proficiency, high school seniors must demonstrate fluency in speaking, reading, and writing the Diné language by taking an exam offered each spring through the Department of Diné Education.
Recently, Amber advanced through local, state, and national competitions, ultimately qualifying for the National American Indian Science and Engineering Fair (NAISEF). At the national competition in Oklahoma City, she took first place in Materials Science.
In the photo: Amber and her mother, Carolyn Bizardie, attending this week’s Native American Public Hearing at FMS.