Strategic planning is key to educational success, and the Aztec Board of Education is taking action to strengthen the district. By engaging administrators, teachers, students, and community members, they are fostering collaboration to identify key improvements and implement meaningful changes.
A recent strategic planning session at Aztec High School provided a platform for stakeholders to voice concerns and prioritize initiatives. Led by CES facilitator Dr. Kurt Steinhaus, participants discussed operational enhancements, teacher support, and student achievement. Over 60 identified issues were refined into 11 major focus areas, with four top priorities:
Recruiting and retaining quality educators
Enhancing student success through academic initiatives
Strengthening community connections
Improving educational consistency through vertical alignment
A major topic was the partnership between San Juan College and the district. College President Dr. Toni Pendergrass emphasized the importance of students earning credentials before graduation. The idea of appointing a liaison to guide students in college coursework was widely supported.
Students contributed valuable insights, voicing concerns about classroom engagement, school safety, and athletic eligibility. Key takeaways included promoting interactive learning and reinforcing academic standards for student-athletes.
Communication and transparency remain vital. Board Secretary Laci Newland stressed the need to keep stakeholders informed, while Superintendent Lauren Laws noted that, despite national teacher shortages, the district has made strides in hiring and maintaining stability.
The Aztec Board of Education extends its sincere appreciation to all who participated in this important process. Your voices and dedication to student success are invaluable. As we work with the ASMD Board to finalize goals and implement strategies, we remain committed to keeping the community informed every step of the way. Together, we are building a strong foundation for the future of our schools.