The New Mexico School Boards Association has selected 11 Santa Fe Public Schools employees for recognition due to their commitment to advancing student success, according to a May 1 announcement.
This recognition highlights the important role that SFPS staff play in improving education outcomes and supporting students across the district. The honorees are among 189 individuals acknowledged statewide for their impact on student achievement in New Mexico.
Board of Education President Kate Noble said, “Our Santa Fe Public Schools are made up of individuals who work every day for our students. They are everything. Each year, we get a chance to honor a few exceptional members of the team and celebrate them for the great work they do. Congratulations and thank you to all of this year‘s honorees.”
The group includes Myrna Barbee-Lee (Lead Nurse), Holly Call (Elementary EL Coach), Christopher Eadie (teacher at Santa Fe High School), Loretta Fernandez (Assistant Director of Adelante Program), Jessica Garcia (Principal at Amy Biehl Community School), Joshua Granata (Legal Counsel), Michael Hagele (Assistant Superintendent), Kelly Phillips (Instructional Coach at Capital High School), Ana Raquel Plaza (Deputy Chief, Family and Community Engagement), Nicholas Salazar (District Athletic Director) and Brian Smith (Santa Fe High School teacher). Superintendent Dr. Christine Griffin said, “These honorees lead with purpose, serve with integrity, and keep students at the center of every decision. Their work makes our schools stronger and moves our entire district forward.”
According to the official website, Santa Fe Public Schools operates as a public school district that seeks excellence by offering programs addressing educational, physical, social, and emotional needs; it includes three National Blue Ribbon Schools and employs more than 72 National Board-Certified staff members. The district maintains a one-to-one device ratio with Chromebooks or iPads provided for each student; it also provides free meals, summer initiatives, Advanced Placement courses for college credit; partners with diverse stakeholders on projects such as bike safety events and environmental innovation.
The honored employees were formally recognized during an SFPS Board of Education meeting held on April 23.
