Shoshoni Language - Language Revitalization

Language Revitalization

As of 2012, Idaho State University offers Elementary, Intermediate, and conversational Shoshoni, with open-source Shosoni audio available online to complement classroom instruction, as part of its long-standing Shoshoni Language Project. Shoshoni classes are also taught as a part of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribe's Language and Culture Preservation Program. On the Wind River Reservation in Wyoming, elders have been active in digital language archiving, and Shoshoni is taught using Dr. Steven Greymorning's Accelerated Second Language Acquisition techniques.

A summer Shoshone/Goshute Youth Language Apprenticeship Program (SYLAP), held at the University of Utah's Center for American Indian Languages since 2009 has been featured on NPR's Weekend Edition program. Shoshoni youth serve as interns, assisting with digitization of Shoshoni language recordings and documentation from the Wick R. Miller collection, so that the materials can be made available for tribal members.

In July 2012, Blackfoot High School in Southeastern Idaho announced it would offer Shoshoni language classes. A Shoshoni charter school has also been proposed for Fort Hall, with a decision expected in September 2012.