A Planning Process to Implement Community Based Education, Fort McDowell, Arizona

Overview & Synopsis

The process of planning for community based education for the Yavapai Indians of Fort McDowell, Arizona, involves developing educational goals and objectives based on an understanding of the conflicts between the Anglo and Yavapai educational systems and considering the function of community education within the Fort McDowell setting. The conflicts in the two educational systems stem from differences in perception of individual value. Yavapai education is tied to the family and the community, and specific educational objectives exist for ages 0-2, 3-5, 6-12, 13-25, 25-45, and over 45. The Yavapai community values each person as an individual without regard to achievement in institutional settings. In contrast, Anglo education is separate from the community and the family. The Anglo community values individuals for the skills and work they can perform as they pass through a series of institutions related to their stage in life. Community based education should develop formal educational training and instruction that is compatible with community values and should integrate that education with daily learning in community activities. Therefore, community based education for Fort McDowell should combine basic skills instruction in reading, writing, English, and math with instruction in the Yavapai language, history, and values. (SB)