Navajo Science Teacher Kim Etsitty Makes Waves in Ocean Exploration
Kim Etsitty, a Navajo science teacher, embarks on an ocean journey, inspiring students and connecting cultures through her unique experiences
Chinle, Arizona, Navajo Nation, Ocean Exploration, Kim Etsitty
Chinle: Kim Etsitty grew up on a ranch in Chinle, Arizona, surrounded by nature. She loved watching the seasons change and gazing at the stars. Her curiosity about the world around her led her to become a science teacher at Navajo Pine High School in New Mexico.
Last year, she joined 12 other science communication fellows for an 11-day ocean expedition with the Ocean Exploration Trust. They set sail from Palau, a beautiful island group in the Pacific, aboard the research vessel Nautilus. It was a big change for Kim, who was used to the quiet of the reservation.
On the ship, she felt isolated, like being on the International Space Station. But the crew’s positive vibes helped her through the tough moments, especially when the currents got strong. Kim has been teaching for about five years and was eager to learn more about ocean science.
During the expedition, they explored deep-water corals, which hold significance in Diné culture. Kim shared these stories with her students back home, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and cultural connections. She wanted them to know that even if they live far from the ocean, they are still part of it.
After weeks at sea, Kim returned to her classroom, excited to share her experiences. She created presentations and brought back coral samples for her students to see. They were thrilled and full of questions about her journey.
Kim formed lasting friendships with the other fellows, who also come from isolated backgrounds. They shared stories about their cultures and the challenges they face, like language loss. It was a beautiful reminder that, despite their different homes, they all share similar experiences.