Employment Opportunities

St. Michael Indian School is a Catholic school on the Navajo Reservation in northeast Arizona.

An SMIS Teacher:

• Understands that teaching in a Catholic school is participation in the Church’s ministry of education.
• Accepts that the school functions in accordance with and is committed to the Catholic philosophy. More than half the students and more than half the faculty are Catholic.
• Models qualities and attitudes that strengthen the school as a faith community.
• Has a bachelor degree in applicable field of education from an accredited college or university.
• Will help students learn subject knowledge, academic and social skills that will increase their ability to function as contributing members of society; to become life-long learners; and to develop an understanding of the Navajo, American and other cultures.

Ministry at St. Michael Indian School

St. Michael Indian School offers you the faith adventure of your life!

• An opportunity to share your gifts, talents, and faith within a community of educators who share common values and goals;
• An opportunity to experience and learn from other cultures;
• An opportunity to minister surrounded by ancient living cultures and spectacular archeological, historical and geological sites;
• An opportunity to serve in an NCA accredited school, to work with experienced educators who serve as mentors, and to teach Navajo children.

Employee Compensation

• The 2009-2010 K-12 compensation package for teachers begins at $19,000, with step increases depending upon credentials. Deductions are made for furnished housing. Those purchasing their own medical insurance receive an additional $7,000 annually.
• Benefits: Free noon meal on school days; furnished housing including washer and dryer; the option of an AmeriCorps Education Award of more than $4,700.

Disclaimer regarding AmeriCorps Education Awards: SMIS offers AmeriCorps Education Awards. SMIS does not require faculty and staff to be of any faith or religion, or to participate in inherently religious activities. If an individual chooses to participate in religious activities separately from the AmeriCorps Education Awards Program, any such time is not counted towards completing an AmeriCorps term of service. Any participation in a religious activity is voluntary.

When you read the relatively low salary you may wonder why anyone taught at SMIS! When asked, teachers said they liked the sense of community, opportunity to grow spiritually, dedication of staff and students, welcoming atmosphere, good spirit among the faculty, motivated and enthusiastic students so that teaching is primary, opportunity for professional growth, the challenge of working with a dynamic group, mild weather, red rock scenery, gorgeous outdoors, supportive administration, housing and utilities plus washer and dryer.

St. Michael Indian School Statistics

• There are more than 350 students, kindergarten through high school.
• Over 90% of the students are Navajo.
• The student body has always included those of other religions along with Catholic youth.
• A majority of the students qualify for free or reduced lunch.
• Each year more than 90% of high school graduates go on to college or other post-secondary education.

Contacts at St. Michael Indian School
P O Box 650
St. Michaels AZ 86511

Executive Director
Sr. Kathleen Kajer, SBS
928-871-4667
kkajer@smis1902.org

Elementary School Principal
Mrs. Tracie Lee
928-871-4636
tlee@smis1902.org

High School Principal
Mr. Tom Sorci
928-871-4321
principal@smis1902.org