Native American Community Academy (NACA)

The Native American Community Academy (NACA) launched as a community-led school in Albuquerque, New Mexico. It is the first urban charter school specifically focused on increasing the number of Native American students who choose the path of college – many as the first person in their family. By using a culturally-competent model, NACA students establish their path toward success.

Since inception, NACA grew from a middle school, then added a high school, and has now graduated three senior classes. Of graduates, 90-95% were accepted to colleges and universities, with Yale, Brown, Cornell, University of New Mexico, and Princeton among the 45 higher education institutions extending invitations. The school has been recognized by the National Association of Secondary School Principals as a Breakthrough School, among other notable commendations, and has received early growth capital to identify “what works” and share best practices.

NACA’s student body is diverse with many cultural and ethnic backgrounds represented, including students from more than 60 different tribes. NACA integrates culture, wellness, language, community, family, and preparation for college into each child’s education, which integrates partnership with families and the larger NACA community.

Building off of the success of the Native American Community Academy (NACA) middle and high schools, in the Fall of 2016, we will be launching the inaugural NACA Elementary school beginning with kindergarten and first grades. The curriculum will be rigorous, engaging, and relate to students’ identities and communities in a relevant way.