American Indian Field: Reservation School Teachers

Opportunities

Two teachers are needed to teach elementary and high school grades in public schools located on Native American reservations on the American Indian Field. There may also be opportunities to become involved in ministries through local churches.

Qualifications

The state of Arizona requires a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited institution and a valid certification from another state. Application can be made for temporary certification to teach in Arizona.

Length of Service

• Mid-term: one semester or longer

• Long-term: two or more years

Ministry Description

Nearly 500,000 Native Americans live in WGM’s ministry area with approximately 1,600 living within a five-mile radius of Southwest Indian Ministries Center in Peoria. More than 100,000 Native people live in the Greater Phoenix metropolitan area. WGM’s ministries to Native Americans are located in the Phoenix metropolitan area; on the Navajo Reservation in Black Mountain, Arizona, and Kirtland, New Mexico; on the Tohono O’odham Reservation in Sells, Arizona; and on the Salt River and Gila River Reservations in Arizona.

Quick Facts

• The Navajo Reservation is the largest reservation in the United States with more than 17 million acres of land. Only 12 percent of the Navajo population is Christian.

• Some things to know in order to be respectful on a reservation: many Native Americans do not point with their fingers but with their lips or with a nod of their heads; do not ask personal questions when you first meet someone, but do not be afraid to ask questions as you get to know the individual.

• Native Americans are relational people, so relationship building is key in ministering to them. Although relationship building is a long process and slow work, once a relationship is established, you will find yourself working among amazing people who are just waiting to hear the gospel.