"We need to rethink schools, schedules and curriculum," she said.

John Dulles, regional director of the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights asked Toni Turk, federal programs administrator for the San Juan County School District, how his Navajo-majority district's programs could be incorporated in other districts.

Turk replied that the San Juan District offers Navajo language instruction, and he said those students who are fluent in both Navajo and English have the highest achievement levels.

His district employs some American Indian administrators, including two principals, and teachers.

"We do have an exciting dynamic of parental involvement," Turk said. "Having Navajo administrators helps us get past (parents' impression) it's their school to it's our school."

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E-mail: dbulkeley@desnews.com