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The Office of Indian Education (OIE) at the Arizona Department of Education (ADE) is dedicated to supporting the educational needs of American Indian students. It aims to ensure these students meet challenging state academic standards while preserving their cultural heritage. The office also focuses on enhancing the knowledge of Native communities, languages, tribal histories, traditions, and cultures among students. Additionally, it ensures that educators serving Indian students can provide culturally appropriate and effective instruction.  Overall, the OIE plays a crucial role in promoting the educational success and cultural preservation of American Indian students.

Meet our staff:

Lynnann Yazzie, Deputy Associate Superintendent

Sophia Begody, Professional Learning Coordinator

Elaine Mollindo, Professional Learning Specialist

Bethaney Allison, Educational Program Specialist

Brandon Clark, Tribal Grants Specialist

Leann Smith, Program Project Specialist

Kelly Fowler, Education Program Specialist

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Michelle Udall, ADE Associate Superintendent

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Michelle Udall, ADE Associate Superintendent

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Michelle has been serving Arizona students and schools for over 16 years in various capacities. She has a Masters in Secondary Education from GCU. Michelle is dedicated to ensuring that all students have the opportunities to improve their educational outcomes and has shown that passion through collaborations, programs, and initiatives. In addition to her commitment to education, Michelle loves to hike, dance, and spend time with her family which includes her husband and four children.

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Lynnann Yazzie, OIE Deputy Associate Superintendent

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Lynnann Yazzie, OIE Deputy Associate Superintendent

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Lynnann is the Deputy Associate Superintendent for the Office of Indian Education at the Arizona Department of Education.  A Navajo from Chinle, Arizona, Lynnann is To’aheedliinii (Water Flows Together Clan), Ma’ii deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass Clan), Ta’neeszahnii (Tangle Clan), and Kiyaa’aanii (Towering House Clan).   Ms. Yazzie received a Bachelors Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies with an emphasis in Mathematics and Education as well as a Masters Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Arizona State University. Lynnann spent 7 years in the classroom teaching Mathematics, Computer Science and Robotics. In addition to teaching, she also coached volleyball and softball. Prior to joining ADE, Lynnann served as the Native American Specialist for Phoenix Union High School District, Chairperson of the Indian Education Advisory Council, Communications Secretary for the Arizona Indian Education Association, and Project Coordinator for United National Indian Tribal Youth, Inc. (UNITY).

Contact Information:

lynnann.yazzie@azed.gov

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Teaching Tribal Sovereignty through Indigenous Texts Session Resources

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Teaching Tribal Sovereignty through Indigenous Texts Session Resources

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Resources for the session facilitated by Helen Thomas (NIEA) and Brooke Curleyhair (ASU AIPI) including:

Teaching tribal sovereignty links, lesson plans, and guidance

Book recommendations

Session activities