Dän Kʼí Intensive Language Program Application

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YNLC is accepting learner applications for the Dän Kʼí (Northern Tutchone) Intensive Language Program.

Applications close August 19, 2026 at 4:30 PM. Students will hear back about program acceptance by August 21, 2026.

If you require any assistance with completing the application, please reach out to Natthitsʼänę̈ Abi Billy-Freeman by email at abillyfreeman@ynlc.ca, or by phone at (867) 668 8824.

Language Learner Application

Please complete all questions and fields below to apply to the program.

Language Goals and Experience

Why do you want to take part in an Intensive Dän Kʼí (Northern Tutchone) Language Program? Why is learning your language important to you? *

What is your current language proficiency in Dän Kʼí? Please select one of the below proficiency stages. *

Emerging - I am starting to recognize the sounds of Dän Kʼí when I hear it, can say a few memorized words or phrases, I often donʼt understand when being spoken to in Dän Kʼí.
Beginner - I recognize Dän Kʼí when I hear it, I can apply memorized language to ask and answer yes/no and open-ended questions on multiple topics to multiple people.
Intermediate - I can follow most of what is being talked about when I enter a fluent Dän Kʼí conversation, I can speak about various topics in the past, present and future in the language.
Functional - I understand and hold conversations with Fluent Speakers of Dän Kʼí, I can speak Dän Kʼí in familiar aspect of my life and apply to contexts I havenʼt personally experienced.
Advanced - I understand all Dän Kʼí being spoken around me and actively engage in conversations with Fluent Speakers with ease, I can explain and teach Dän Kʼí through the language.
Fully Fluent - I have a deep understanding of and speak fluently on most aspects of Dän Kʼí culture through the language, I actively help others learn the language and grow the language.

Share you experience learning a Yukon First Nation language or an other second language? *

Please let YNLC know what Yukon First Nation language learning or other second language training you have received so that we are able to understand your previous language learning. This can include immersion camps, language classes, time on the land with a fluent family member, etc.

What are your long-term goals for sharing, teaching, and having a career surrounding revitalization of the Dän Kʼí (Northern Tutchone)? *

Is teaching Dän Kʼí to others and a future career in language revitalization important to you? How do you see yourself teaching and working in language in the future?

Language and Culture Relationships

Please list Dän Kʼí Fluent Speakers that you have an established relationship with: *

Please list Elder and Knowledge Keepers that you have an established relationship with: *

Program Commitment

The Dän Kʼí (Northern Tutchone) Intensive Language Program requires a large time and learning commitment over multiple years. How do you see yourself adjusting your life to make time for 12-hours of language learning per week over a three-year period and what actionable steps will you take to prioritize time towards language learning? *

Learners accepted into the program must commit to the multi-year program schedule. The program will run for eight months of the year, with programming happening two months on and one month off throughout 2026/2027, 2027/2028, and 2028/2029. Learners will be responsible for catching up on missed class time to remain in the program.

Tell us about your life experiences that demonstrate personal commitment and dedication to meeting goals. How have these experiences prepared your for language learning? *

Learner Information

What First Nation are you a member, citizen, or beneficiary of? *

Student Name *

First

Last

Traditional Name

Clan

Date of Birth *

Email *

Phone *

Address *

Address Line 1

Address Line 2

City

State / Province / Region

Postal Code

Country

Is there any additional information you would like to share with program staff that you think we should be aware of?

Verify you are not a robot *

What is the capital city of the Yukon?

Date *

Student Signature (please type) *