Our History

History of Beclabito Day School

The Beclabito Chapter’s Learning Place

Beclabito Day School’s storied history is deeply rooted in the Navajo Nation. Our school’s mission has always been to provide quality education while preserving and celebrating Navajo culture and traditions. Initially, we were a modest one-room schoolhouse. Today, we are a premier Navajo elementary learning institution.  

Who named us Beclabito?

Beclabito Day School was born of a rich heritage and deep connection to the rolling hills and beautiful landscapes upon which it was established in 1934. The origin story of our bright and energetic elementary institution is set in the heart of the Beclabito Chapter, which was founded around a natural spring named “Bit’laah Bit’o.”

Bit’laah Bit’o translates to “Spring Underneath,” with Bit’laah meaning “under” or “beneath”; “bi” meaning “his”; and “to” meaning water. As the waters drew our people to settle in this portion of the Navajo Nation, young Navajo hearts and minds have filled Beclabito Day School classrooms for decades. These waters support our Navajo Nation, just as our staff supports students through their education as they prepare to become community leaders.    

Who named the watering site?

Ancestors, elders, and members of the Beclabito Chapter have shared the account of “a gentleman by the name of Bit’laah,” who settled close to a watering source located where Beclabito Day School is located today. Since Bit’laah lived near this watering site, all his neighbors considered the water to belong to him. And so, our Navajo ancestor Bit’laah is our namesake. Beclabito Day School is one with our land by name and location.

In the early 1950s, as the Navajo Tribal Council took shape across the reservation, the need for education within our community continued to rise. Beclabito Day School experienced significant growth with its addition of dedicated educators and staff. We expanded our facilities, curriculum, and services to accommodate a broader range of students and provide them with a holistic education.  

Remembering Culture

Beclabito Day School has been committed to preserving and honoring its Navajo culture since its inception. Our educational journey incorporates Navajo language, traditions, and values. Every Beclabito Day School student has benefited from our unique Native pedagogy by teaching students their heritage through Navajo arts and crafts, Tribal history classes, and daily holistic educational practices.  

Engaging Community 

As an integral part of the community, Beclabito Day School works closely with local organizations, Tribal leaders, and families. Our school remains a place of unity and support, by engaging in community events, cultural celebrations, and school-sponsored academic initiatives.  

In recent years, Beclabito Day School has embraced advanced technologies to enhance the learning experience of all students. Equipped with state-of-the-art educational resources, our passionate and highly experienced educators prepare our students for the 21st century and beyond. Beclabito Day School graduates are ready for the future while respecting and preserving their cultural roots.