American Horse School
This award recognizes a FACE site that demonstrates excellence across all areas of the program. To be considered, sites must offer all three FACE components and demonstrate strong growth in enrollment and participation throughout the school year (August through March). Sites are expected to implement the FACE model with fidelity, reflecting the overall quality and integrity of program implementation across all components. This includes following and implementing the required curriculum for each component, integrating local language and culture into daily instruction and family engagement, conducting timely and consistent assessments to support strong instructional practices, maintaining complete and timely data reporting, and implementing effective recruitment strategies to engage children and families. Final selection is made by the FACE Leadership Team.
Haak' u Community Academy
This award recognizes a site that has demonstrated significant growth in enrollment and participation during the school year (August through March). It also honors the dedication and commitment of staff who go above and beyond to serve children and families, reflecting strong efforts to increase engagement, strengthen relationships, and support the overall success of the FACE program. Final selection is made by the FACE Leadership Team.
This award recognizes outstanding performance within a specific FACE component, Prekindergarten, Adult Education, and Family Enrichment. Sites are considered based on enrollment and participation, as well as program quality and overall implementation, including the effective use of required curriculum, integration of local language and culture, and timely assessments to support high-quality instructional practices. Final selection is made by the FACE Leadership Team, taking into consideration both the nomination and direct engagement with the site.
Tiis Ts'ozi Bi'Olta
(Crownpoint Community School)
Gila Crossing Community School
Tse'ii'ahi' (Standing Rock)
Community School
Individual Component Awards
These awards recognize individual staff within each FACE component, Prekindergarten, Adult Education, and Family Enrichment who demonstrate exceptional dedication, leadership, and commitment to program success. Honorees are those who go above and beyond to support children, families, and their communities within their specific component area. Final selection is made by the FACE Leadership Team.
Juanita Rooks
Little Wound School
Prekindergarten
Co-Teacher of the Year
Joanne Smith
Cove Day School
Adult Education
Coach of the Year
Karletta Charlee
Tiis Ts'ozi Bi'Olta (Crownpoint Community School)
Family Enrichment Advocate of the Year
Consuelo Means
American Horse School