Prior to 1942, the Ramah Navajo community lacked local educational facilities, relying on a Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) day school established in 1943 in Mountain View, which had the capacity for only 30 students and provided limited education. After third grade, students had to attend off-reservation boarding schools far from their community. Overcrowding at the Mountain View school led to the construction of a BIA dormitory in 1954, allowing Ramah Navajo students to attend the Ramah Public School, but this arrangement was short-lived as the public high school was condemned in 1968 due to low enrollment, partly attributed to inadequate dormitory space and bus services for older students.
In response to these educational challenges, community leader Chavez P. Coho, with support from the Navajo Nation’s DNA legal services, filed a lawsuit against the Gallup McKinley County School District (GMCS) to keep the public high school open. The community organized meetings, ultimately forming a local school board in February 1970, comprised of committed leaders who lacked formal education but were determined to address their educational needs. The newly incorporated school board sought funding from federal officials, passionately advocating for a school that would allow their children to remain close to home.
The community’s efforts gained traction, leading to a commitment from the BIA for funding to establish the Ramah Navajo High School in 1970, making it the first Indian-controlled school in the U.S. Over the years, the school was renovated and operated successfully, with Congress eventually appropriating funds for a new school in Pine Hill, which opened in 1975. This marked a significant achievement for the Ramah Navajo community, culminating in the establishment of Pine Hill School, which provided a local, culturally relevant educational environment.
Today, Pine Hill School has graduated over 750 students and is fully accredited by the State of New Mexico and the North Central Association (NCA). The Ramah Navajo community is recognized as a model for Indian self-determination, inspiring other indigenous tribes worldwide. Ongoing efforts include facility renovations and expansions to enhance educational services, demonstrating the community’s commitment to preserving their cultural heritage and ensuring quality education for future generations.