The Teacher Our Ancestors Deserved with Mrs. Lynette Stant (Diné)

Lynette Stant, a member of the Dine’ Nation, is a distinguished educator with over two decades of experience in elementary education. Currently, she teaches third grade on the Salt River Indian Reservation in Scottsdale, Arizona, where her deep-rooted commitment to student success and cultural empowerment drives her pedagogical approach. Lynette holds a Master’s degree from Grand Canyon University and graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Arizona State University. She is also a proud Gates Millennium Scholar Alumni.

A trailblazer in her field, Lynette made history in 2020 when she was named Arizona Teacher of the Year, becoming the first Indigenous woman to earn this prestigious honor. This recognition highlights her unwavering dedication to providing an inclusive, culturally responsive education that nurtures both academic growth and personal development for her students. Her contributions to education extend beyond the classroom; in recognition of her leadership, Lynette was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from Northern Arizona University, underscoring her profound impact on the education community and her ongoing commitment to advancing educational equity. As an educator, Lynette’s mission is to ensure that all her students, particularly Indigenous youth, have the tools and opportunities they need to become leaders in a competitive global society. She is steadfast in her belief that education must honor and integrate students' cultural identities, languages, and heritage. Her work is driven by a profound commitment to ensuring that Indigenous students are equipped with a strong educational foundation, enabling them to thrive academically while staying connected to their communities and cultural traditions. Lynette’s career is a testament to the power of culturally relevant, student-centered education and her unwavering belief in the transformative power of teaching.

Song Credit: Kwelosoet by Fawn Wood

Recorded January 17, 2025.