Ms. Cherisa Suender from Mesa Verde Elementary was recognized as our 2024 FMS Teacher of the Year at this afternoon’s Board of Education meeting, along with Ms. Terri McCartney from Farmington High, who was honored as one of our amazing finalists. We are so proud of all the dedicated educators nominated this year—more than 200! Their passion and hard work make a huge difference in the lives of our students.
“There’s no way I could do this work by myself, it takes the support of my colleagues, administration, community, and parents. Teaching is my passion, and I truly love what I do,” said Ms. Suender.
Also during the work session, Dr. Toni Hopper Pendergrass, President of San Juan College, shared some exciting updates. San Juan College is ranked 15th in the nation for education outcomes, career success, and affordability, and 7th for cost and financing. Dr. Pendergrass also spoke about the upcoming State General Obligation Bond Election, which could bring $5.5 million to San Juan County for various projects. Importantly, this bond would not raise property taxes for families.
Other highlights from the meeting include:
Mr. Isaac Gamboa, Executive Director of Operations and Athletics, announced that Farmington Municipal Schools received a 92.8% rating in our most recent facilities check by the NM Public School Facilities Authority. The Facility Maintenance Assessment Report (FMAR) evaluated our school buildings, playgrounds, and parking lots in this 2-year cycle. The rating shows our commitment to keeping our school buildings safe and well-maintained.
Mr. Milo McMinn, Director of College & Career Readiness, shared fantastic news: students who completed 2 Career and Tech Education (CTE) courses had a 97% graduation rate in 2023. This year, 73% of our high school students are enrolled in CTE courses, which provide valuable skills for future careers.
The Piedra Vista Chamber Orchestra, led by Mr. Fear, performed Mozart’s Quartet No. 1 in G Major at the meeting.
Mr. Daniel Fear, FMS Fine Arts Coordinator, reported that more than 4,000 students in grades 6-12 are involved in visual, performing, or media arts classes. Additionally, more than 2,000 students are participating in music and theatre performance classes. We are also grateful to Mr. Fear for stepping in to teach two extra music classes at Piedra Vista High School to meet the growing demand for the arts.
Mark your calendars for the next Board of Education meeting on November 12, 2024.