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Administration Team
Shawna Becenti
Head of School
Clans: Táchii’nii (Red Running into the Water Clan), ‘Áshįįhi (Salt People Clan), Mą‘ii deeshgiizhinii (Coyote Pass Clan), Tł‘ógi (Hairy Ones or Weaver-Zia Clan)
Mrs. Becenti was raised in Farmington, New Mexico, but has family ties to Tohatchi, NM, Crownpoint, NM, Ganado, AZ, and Parker, AZ. She is an alumna of Navajo Preparatory School and received a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Secondary Education from University of New Mexico and a Master of School Administration degree from New Mexico State University. She is a proud mother of five children and grandmother of one grandson. Mrs. Becenti has been married twenty years to Kevin R. Becenti of Crownpoint, NM.
Mrs. Becenti spent her entire adult years in the area of education. She taught social studies courses at Piedra Vista High School, Rocinante High School, and Navajo Preparatory School. She entered administration at Navajo Preparatory School as an Athletic Director and Discipline Officer. She spent the last ten years teaching at Kirtland Central High School. She spent three years as Kirtland High’s Assistant Principal and Athletic Director, and seven years as the Principal. Kirtland Central High School was named a Bronze Medal School in the US News Best High Schools under her leadership.
Mrs. Becenti is honored and excited to return back home to where her educational journey began. She is an example of the school’s motto, Yideeskaago Naataanii.
Keith Neil, Associate Head of School for Academics and Operations
Mr. Neil is a lifelong resident of San Juan County, attending Elementary and Middle School in Aztec, NM and spending his high school years at Grace Baptist Academy, while graduating from the Bible Baptist Shepherd School in Farmington, NM.
After high school, Mr. Neil moved on to complete his Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences, with minors in History and Bible/Theology from Simpson University in Redding, CA. Mr. Neil continued his education by receiving his Teacher Certification from Fort Lewis College in Durango, CO and then receiving both a Master’s in Business Administration and Educational Administration license through New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM. He spent two years teaching and coaching at Aztec High School, followed by six years at Farmington High School. In 2010, Mr. Neil transitioned out of the classroom for six years working at Pinon Hills Community Church as Associate Pastor in Student Ministry. In 2016, Mr. Neil returned to the education field, serving as Dean of Students, Assistant Principal and Athletic Director at Kirtland Central High School. He was given an opportunity to join the family at Navajo Prep in 2018 to serve as Dean of Instruction and has found a home amongst the amazing students and staff at NPS.
Mr. Neil has been married to his wife Stevie since 2001 and has two children. He loves to spend his free time fly fishing, camping, and playing golf.
Dr. Darah Tabrum, Associate Head of School for Advancement and Outreach
Dr. Darah Tabrum is the Associate Head of School for Advancement and Outreach and has worked at Navajo Prep since 2019. Her family is from New Zealand, but she has lived in New Mexico for over ten years and feels lucky to call the Four Corners home. She earned her Bachelor of Arts from Agnes Scott College in Political Science, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of New Mexico, and a doctoral degree in Educational Leadership through New Mexico State University. Before working at Navajo Prep, Dr. Tabrum taught college success, gifted, and coordinated early college and college access initiatives. She believes deeply in supporting student identity development and supporting students to accomplish their dreams. Outside of work, you might find Dr. Tabrum enjoying a hike outdoors, spending time with friends and family, and seeking an adventure!
Roderick Denetso, Division Director of Student Life and Wellness
Clans are: Tsi’naajinii, Kinlichii’nii and African American.
Mr. Denetso is originally from Klagetoh, AZ and is a 1996 graduate of Ganado High School. Mr. Denetso went on to pursue an athletic career at Arizona State University and a brief stint playing professional football overseas. Mr. Denetso received his Master's degree from NMHU as a Clinical Social Worker and his B.S. degree in Family Studies/Human Development and Thematic in Education. Mr. Denetso has extensive work experience in behavioral health and social work. Mr. Denetso has served at NPS for approximately nine years in the following areas: Dean of Student Life in the Residential Program and Admissions Coordinator. He has also coached football, baseball, and track. Mr. Denetso enjoys giving back to the youth, is active in the community, and is a motivational speaker for our youth. In his free time, he enjoys being with family, friends, and anything that involves sports. Mr. Denetso reports, “I am living the dream working at NPS with your children".
Manuel Watchman, Division Director of Business and Human Services
Manuel Watchman is the Division Director of Business and Human Services and brings 12 years of HR experience. He holds a Bachelor's degree from Boston University in International Relations and a Master's degree in Finance from the University of Massachusetts as of May 2022. He has worked at two other schools and is familiar with regulations. Additionally, he has worked in many aspects of HR including benefits administration, management, training, and more. When not at work, he enjoys spending time with family, home improvement, volunteering, and has recently assisted a nonprofit small business organization.
Kevin Belin, Director of the Diné Bizaad Institute
Mr. Belin is the Navajo Language teacher at Navajo Prep, as well as owner of Hashké – Hozhó Design and Collaborative and Adjunct Instructor with Diné College with the Navajo Cultural Arts Program. Mr. Belin has been in the education field for nearly a decade working with fellow teachers, consultants, and language instructors to perpetuate the Navajo Language and Culture through curriculum building, trainings, and presentations. Throughout the year, Mr. Belin is consulted to work with youth and demonstrate hands on workshops in historical and cultural knowledge. “I don’t consider myself an expert, but I am the bridge that connects the knowledge banks that are our elders to the young and discouraged learners with modern approaches to language learning and scaffolded instruction to understanding the complex concepts of Sa’ah Naaghei Bik’eh Hozho.” Mr. Belin has been featured on Native America Calling, American Indian Republic, 21st Century Native leaders podcast and Indian Country Today as a cultural representative and is a Billy Mill’s Running Strong Dreamstarter. “Teaching the Navajo Language to our young leaders and helping them understand the complexity that is the Diné way of life is a lifelong endeavor.”
Jerrold Platero, Facilities and Operations Manager
Jerrold Platero, a dedicated motodad with a passion for dirt biking and a commitment to nurturing the next generation through 4-H. When he’s not tearing up the trails on his dirt bike, you can find him cheering on his kids at various sports and livestock show events, fostering teamwork and a love for competition. As a 4-H leader, Jerrold believes in the power of community and hands-on learning, actively participating in 4-H to help young people develop life skills and confidence. With a spirit of adventure and a heart for mentorship, Jerrold is always ready for the next challenge, whether it’s on the track, at work or home.
April Chee, Executive Assistant to the Head of School
Clans: Tábąąhi (Waters Edge People), Nakaii (Mexican), Áshįįhí (Salt People), and Nakaii (Mexican)
Leadership Team
Victor Alvarez, Food Service Director
Victor Alvarez is a Food Service Director with a passion for creating delicious and nutritious meals. Growing up, Victor's parents were both professional pianists, and music was a huge part of his life. Despite his parents' influence, Victor decided to pursue a career in food service. After attending college for three years, he began working in the restaurant industry, gradually building his knowledge and experience. Over the past decade, Victor has worked his way up to become a respected Food Service Manager, overseeing operations in multiple restaurants. He is known for his creative approach to menu design and his commitment to providing excellent customer service. With his unique background and vision, Victor continues to be a leader in the food service industry.
Stepheny Atencio, School Counselor
Stepheny Atencio is a lifetime resident of San Juan County. Ms. Atencio graduated from Aztec High School and went on to earn a BS Degree in Education and a MA Degree in Counseling & Guidance. Ms. Atencio currently holds level three licensure in Teaching and Counseling as well Educational Administration. Ms. Atencio was EMDR trained in 2020 and has spent most of her adult life working in the educational setting. Stepheny studied dance for over 32 years and owned a local dance studio for 9 years. Ms. Atencio feels she truly has a heart for working and connecting with young adults- Ms. Atencio believes that it is an honor and privilege to be given the opportunity to join the Navajo Prep Family. Stepheny is a mother to two daughters and outside of school she enjoys anything in the mountains, shopping, exercising, and spending time with her family.
Sean Bekis, Director of Technology
Mr. Bekis is a lifelong New Mexico resident. Sean was raised in Upper Fruitland and graduated from Kirtland Central High School in 1999. He has always had a passion for computer systems and helping others utilize the systems. He graduated from San Juan College’s Information Technology Program and currently has an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Information Technology (Networking Emphasis). Sean has 14 years of experience working with IT in the education sector which includes serving as the Network Administrator for Central Consolidated Schools. In his free time Mr. Bekis enjoys watching sports and spending time with his two daughters. The 2019-20 school year is the first year that Sean has served as part of the Navajo Preparatory School administrative team.
Dr. Joseph Claunch, Student Life Coordinator
Dr. Joe Claunch is a member of the Puyallup Tribe and brings 20 years of experience working with Native American communities as a teacher, coach, researcher, and educational leader. He currently serves as Navajo Preparatory School’s Student Life Coordinator.
Dr. Claunch has served in leadership roles across Tribal education systems, most recently as Director of Education for the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, where he oversaw an infant–6th grade Montessori School, K–12 public education programs, and higher education initiatives. Prior to that, he served as Executive Director of the Zuni Youth Enrichment Project, where he worked alongside staff and community partners to expand resources, facilities, and program offerings for Native American youth. He has also taught and coached at Zuni High School and Haskell Indian Nations University.
Dr. Claunch holds a bachelor’s degree in American Indian Studies from Haskell Indian Nations University, a master’s degree in education from the University of Oregon, and a Ph.D. in sport and exercise psychology from the University of Kansas. He is a devoted husband and father, an avid learner, and a thoughtful listener who is passionate about helping Native students move from their strengths to success.
Joseph.Claunch@navajoprep.com
Rainy Crisp, Dean of Students and Athletic Director
Rainy Crisp is from Shiprock NM. She shares three kids with significant other, Roddell Denetso: Dontrelle Denetso, Nijrelle Denetso, and Dejahnelle Denetso. Rainy graduated from Navajo Prep in 1998 and attended Arizona State University. After getting her degree in Exercise Science/Secondary Education, she came back to Navajo Prep and began her teaching career in Physical Education & Health. Throughout the 11 years, Ms. Crisp also taught Fitness Training, Junior/Senior Seminar and served as an athletic coach, the Tobacco Use, Prevention and Control Coordinator, and a Class Sponsor multiple of times. In 2013 Ms. Crisp received her Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from American College of Education and in 2016 received her Administrative License. She now serves as the Assistant Dean of Instruction and Athletic Director.
Yvette Escojeda, Advocacy & Special Projects Coordinator
Yvette Escojeda joined the Navajo Preparatory School family in 2017 and currently serves as the Advocacy and Special Projects Coordinator. In this role, she supports key initiatives in legislative advocacy and external communications. She also leads outreach coordination, procurement management, and website management. She works closely with school leadership, tribal entities, and state and federal partners to strengthen relationships and pursue funding opportunities that support student success and institutional growth.
Yvette is committed to advancing Tribal Control Schools through equitable funding initiatives and sustainable capital infrastructure development. Her work focuses on securing and supporting resources through the Navajo Nation, the State of New Mexico, and federal legislative partnerships to enhance educational opportunities for Native students and communities.
Yvette holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master of Public Administration from the University of New Mexico.
Christy Jaqua, BSN, RN, School Nurse
Christy Jaqua brings a unique blend of business experience and clinical nursing care to her role as school nurse at Navajo Preparatory School. A proud Farmington native and graduate of Farmington High School, Christy first earned a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Marketing. She and her husband successfully owned and operated several local businesses while raising their family.
As her children grew older, Christy was inspired to pursue a lifelong interest in healthcare. She returned to school and earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from the University of New Mexico. Christy then worked for five years as a Pre/Post-Op nurse, gaining valuable hands-on experience in patient care and recovery.
Now, she’s excited to bring her passion for student wellness and community support to Navajo Prep. Outside of school, Christy enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, camping, playing golf and pickleball.
Jocelyn Jones, Human Resources Manager
Born in Mesa, Arizona, raised on the Navajo Nation in a little town called Many Farms, Arizona. Her clans are Tódík'ǫ́zhí (Salt Water), Tótsohníí (Big Water), Naakai dine'e (The Mexican People), Tachii'nii (Red Running into Water). She graduated in 2014 from Many Farms High School as Class Salutatorian. Afterwards she moved to Durango, Colorado where she continued with her education at Fort Lewis College. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration in 2018. During the Fall of 2019 she moved to Farmington, New Mexico with her family and proceeded to pursue her master’s degree in the year 2020. She graduated from Adams State University in 2023 with an MBA in Leadership. Following her graduation, she applied at Navajo Preparatory School and got an amazing offer to be the Business Office/Human Resource Technician in which she fulfilled and has secured the position of Human Resources Manager. which she happily accepted. She got married in the Fall of 2024 after 6 years of courting her now husband and they are enjoying raising their 3 beautiful children within the Four Corners region.
George Joy, Safety and EMS Coordinator
After nearly 12 years of distinguished service in the British Army, including combat deployments during Desert Storm and in Northern Ireland, George immigrated to the United States in 2005.
George delved into real estate investment in New Mexico before assuming the role of Vice President of Operations at a Firearms Manufacturer in Virginia. He has extensive networks within the United States Military and Law Enforcement Agencies both domestically and internationally. He served honorably in with the Farmington Police Department and the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office from 2010 to 2021, holding various roles including Patrol Officer, Detective, Corporal, Field Training Officer and Instructor across multiple disciplines. After leaving law enforcement, George was selected to be one of the initial Lead Safety Advisors at Central Consolidated School District, specifically at Shiprock High School. This was an incredibly rewarding experience, and he really connected with the Navajo youth at the school, leading to being voted “Coolest Member of Staff” by the graduating class of 2024.
The move to Navajo Prep was a natural progression in his career in school safety and he looks forward to leading the security team to increase the wellbeing of students, staff and families. George is a Department of Homeland Security trained and approved Master Trainer in Threat Assessment. He’s been married to the love of his life, Stephanie for 16 years and is a proud dad to Olivia.
Giovanni Romeo, Dean of Academics and IB Coordinator
After graduate school, Mr. Romeo spent time teaching English, History, and Geography in New York City (2 years), rural South Korea (7 years), and Abu Dhabi in the Middle East (4 years). At Abu Dhabi International School, he was introduced to the International Baccalaureate (IB) and began teaching the Theory of Knowledge (TOK) for the Diploma Programme (DP). Mr. Romeo joined Qingdao Amerasia International School - an IB Continuum School in Qingdao, China - in August 2019 as their TOK Coordinator and IB DP Coordinator. After 3 years in China, he joined Navajo Preparatory School in July 2022.
Mr. Romeo earned his second master's degree - in Education - from Waldorf University in Iowa and is a licensed teacher in both Florida and New Mexico and holds an administrative license for New Mexico. He holds IB certification for the Theory of Knowledge (TOK), MYP Humanities, IB Approaches to Teaching and Learning, DP Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS), MYP Interdisciplinary Teaching and Learning, as well as DP Coordination. He has facilitated workshops for IBARMS in Denver, Colorado and published educational materials and resources for teachers in South Korea.
Mr. Romeo loves hiking and travel. He has been to 35 countries and successfully completed a thru-hike of Vermont's 273 mile Long Trail. He is currently working on summiting the Adirondack 46 in New York with his brother.
Jeffrey Tome, Admissions, Retention, & Recruitment
Jeffrey Tome was born and raised in Shiprock, NM. He joined the Navajo Prep family in 2021 and would love to get to know you and your family. His interests include playing/coaching basketball, playing volleyball, photography and videography to name a few. He graduated from Shiprock High School in 2006 and ventured off to college and completed his Master’s program at New Mexico Highlands University. At Highlands, he received his Master’s in Social Work and has been in the field of Social Work for 12 years. His prior experience includes internships at Northern Navajo Medical Center, Childhaven, and Teen Life Center. Other experiences include five years at Central Consolidated School District as a School Social Worker and SPED Teacher. Lastly, he was a Treatment Supervisor with PMS and Social Worker at SASI Schools in Shiprock. Those are some experiences that have led him to Prep.
He also coached boys basketball here at Navajo Prep as the assistant for Varsity, JV & C team coach. He and the other coaches led them to their first ever Boys 3A State Championship in March 2024.
Please reach out to Mr. Tome for any questions regarding admissions or if you just want to say “hi” or follow up on anything. He wishes you good luck on your journey to becoming an Eagle.
Terri Yazzie-Bochinclonny, Senior Accountant
Terri Yazzie-Bochinclonny is originally from Nazlini, Arizona and raised in Chinle, Arizona by her grandparents. She graduated in 2016 from Chinle High School. She continued her education at Dine College earning her A.A. in Business Administration in 2018 and later her B.S. in Business Administration from Grand Canyon University in 2020. She is currently working on obtaining her M.B.A with a concentration in Finance from New Mexico Highlands University. Terri has been married to her husband since 2022 and they have three boys. They enjoy traveling, swimming, fishing, and watching movies as a family.
terri.yazzie-bochinclonny@navajoprep.com
Faculty
Governance & Administration Organizational Chart
The Governance Administration- Org Chart 25-26 displays the hierarchy of NPS Administration roles.
