Santa Fe Standard

Santa Fe Public Schools (SFPS) is dedicated to supporting the professional growth of its teachers, offering a nurturing and forward-thinking environment for educators. According to Vanessa Angel, SFPS new teacher mentor coordinator, educators at SFPS are never alone in their journey. Angel emphasized, "We provide support for educators every step of the way."

SFPS provides various professional development opportunities for teachers, including Professional Learning Communities (PLCs) where teachers collaborate and learn from each other. Angel explained, "This can include modeling for teachers, or actually teaching a lesson or a class for them." Additionally, SFPS offers first-year mentoring programs to support new teachers as they embark on their career in education.

The support for teachers at SFPS extends to resources such as webinars, collaborative lesson planning, and co-teaching opportunities with fellow educators. Angel stated, "Anything the teacher needs help with or anything the principal suggests that a teacher needs helps with specifically, we would implement and provide that resource to them."

Furthermore, SFPS assists teachers in advancing their teaching licenses, providing guidance with dossiers or through the OPAL (Online Portfolio Alternative Licensure) pathway. Angel highlighted, "We support them in all aspects of obtaining a license (and) maintaining a license." Currently, SFPS is aiding 60 candidates in the process of extending their licenses to continue teaching specific subjects.

As a liaison between educators and the New Mexico Public Education Department, Angel ensures continuous support for teachers. She mentioned, "We’ll be there from start to finish to support them, whether they need help with something such as classroom management, help with turning in lesson plans or dealing with paperwork or bureaucratic processes."

In conclusion, SFPS is committed to empowering teachers and fostering a collaborative learning environment. Educators are encouraged to join the SFPS team to expand their professional growth and make a difference in the lives of students.