LEARN. GROW. THRIVE.
ABout Holbrook Indian School
Holbrook Indian School (HIS) is a first- through twelfth-grade boarding academy providing American Indian youth with a safe place to learn, grow, and thrive in their Creator for over 75 years. Located in Holbrook, Arizona, HIS is operated by the Pacific Union Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. HIS also operates a first- through eighth-grade day school on the Navajo Nation in Chinle, Arizona. Over 80% of HIS funding comes from individuals who desire to make a positive change in Native American communities.
Learning from the past to improve the future
There once was a style of boarding schools that existed to destroy all aspects of American Indian culture and assimilate tribes into the “American way of life.” Holbrook Indian School (HIS) stands apart by providing a safe space for students to learn, grow, and thrive while also preserving and celebrating their culture. HIS is not about “killing the Indian;” it is about helping students reclaim their identity. Learn More.
MAPS: Wholeness for every student
MAPS is an initiative created to assist students in learning, growing, and thriving through four key areas: Mental, Academic/Artistic, Physical, Spiritual. For our students, especially those who have experienced trauma, academic achievement is interdependent with good mental, physical, and spiritual health. Each of these four pillars is a fundamental component of the students’ environment and education with specific, practical applications.
The MAPS coordinator works with the counseling department to develop proactive, systematic, and comprehensive wellness plans, identifying areas of need for each student. This helps students make the connection between these four pillars and the impact each has on their ability to develop healthy habits for optimal wellness.
calendar of Events
HIS Impact stories
Cycle-breaker:
Jovannah’s Story
Former student Jovannah Poor Bear Adams served as Dean of Students and later as Vice Principal at HIS. She has survived unspeakable trauma, something that is unfortunately all too common on the reservation. Now, through education, she is leading others in breaking the cycle. See her journey from dark to light.
Accelerator:
Kobe’s Story
Kobe is a runner; 5k, 10k, half-marathon—he's done them all. Kobe ran "Just Move It," a series of races sponsored by the Navajo Nation. But running isn't the only thing he’s accelerated in. Kobe also joined the accelerated math program during his time at HIS. Read how Holbrook made both school and long-distance training easier for Kobe.
Trailblazer:
Shawnewa’s Story
Shawnewa is fearless. After the passing of her grandfather, she honored his wishes by attending Holbrook Indian School. Shawnewa stayed strong until her positive change in spirit began to melt hearts. Read her story.
HIS Nation Blog
SUPPORT OUR STUDENTS
Because we simply can’t do all of this without your help, every gift matters. Your support makes a difference in the lives of our students, their families, and their communities. Whether you make a one-time or recurring gift, remember HIS in your estate plan, or give another way, we thank you for joining us on our journey to bring hope and healing to our nation’s first children.
“Native American Camp Meeting (NACM) is a very special time of year. It is a time of gathering, camaraderie, spiritual uplifting, and renewal. Holbrook Indian School (HIS) has been blessed to be the host site for this beautiful event for our brothers and sisters three years running. One of the most important people who spearheads this event is Pastor Dale Wolcott. We are thankful to him for his dedication and passion in his role as director of Arizona Conference Native American Ministries.”