

Congratulations to Fernando Corona, our LCPS Athlete of the Week from Mayfield HS!
A shooting guard and team captain, he averages 15 points per game, 5 rebounds per game, and has a 50.8 percent effective field goal percentage.
Coach Trujillo says Fernando is a hardworking and committed leader who consistently puts in extra effort to improve his game and shows a genuine love for basketball.

Congrats to Ceanna McKines, our LCPS Athlete of the Week from Mayfield HS!
Ceanna is a strong, standout All-Star for the Trojans, averaging 24.4 points per game, 8.2 rebounds, and 2.4 steals, while shooting 45 percent from the field and making 73 percent of her free throws.
Coach Maya says Ceanna is not only an outstanding athlete, but also a respectful leader with a great attitude and a proud member of the National Honor Society.

Distinguished Senior Scholarship & National Qualifier: Mia Berkson
1st Place – Lights & Sound: Mina Duran, Reylene Lucero
1st Place – Hair, Makeup & Costumes: Isabella Gonzalez, Marc Elfein, Isabella Rebalo, Peyton Eishelman
1st Place – Backstage Crew: Hailey Martin, Ariana
2nd Place – Stage Management: Alize Torres
Spirit Award: OMHS Theatre









Patrick Nolan brings a lifelong commitment to public education and community service to his role on the Las Cruces Public Schools Board of Education. Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Patrick grew up surrounded by the values of hard work and public service—his mother was a high school teacher in Detroit Public Schools, and his father worked in the auto industry. He later earned a degree in History from the University of Detroit Mercy.
As the proud parent of an LCPS senior, Mr. Nolan understands firsthand the impact schools have on students and families. “The impact our schools have both on students and families is an important one,” he writes. “It’s where we build the critical building blocks that will help us lead a fulfilling life. I want to be able to support these institutions any way I can, and serving as a school board member is certainly one way I can support our public schools.”
Mr. Nolan has a long history of advocacy and public engagement. Since 2018, he has been involved with the Green Chamber through his role as Executive Director of the Friends of Organ Mountains–Desert Peaks, a nonprofit dedicated to protecting public lands and fostering youth connections to the outdoors through its Moving Montañas initiative. Prior to that, he served as a union representative with the American Federation of Teachers New Mexico, where his work frequently brought him into LCPS classrooms and conversations around funding, policy, and student success.
💬 In His Own Words
Proudest LCPS Board Moment:
“Seeing recent increases in reading scores certainly stands out. It was a real testament to the hard work being done every day in our schools.”
Why He Serves:
“I believe that one of our most critical missions as a community is how we prepare our young people to be future leaders. Serving as a school board member is a unique opportunity to advocate for public schools.”
Outside the Boardroom:
When he’s not attending meetings or school events, Mr. Nolan enjoys getting outdoors—especially running along the river with his dog, Lola. He’s an avid movie enthusiast, a vinyl collector, a loyal Detroit sports fan, and a dedicated reader of history and political books.
LCPS is grateful for Patrick Nolan’s thoughtful leadership, advocacy, and commitment to the students and families of the LCPS community. Thank you, Mr. Nolan, for all you do to help our learners thrive!

Watch it exclusively on our LCPS.TV YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/live/TrN6w9DZIhw?si=pfTP_h78_lhZH_I4

Some teachers make an impact the moment you walk through the door. At Picacho Middle School, that teacher is Alleyene “Bunny” Medina.
As a child, Bunny often “played school,” already knowing that one day she wanted to be a teacher. That childhood dream grew into a 26-year career dedicated to helping students learn, grow, and feel supported. After teaching multiple subjects throughout her career, she has spent the last 16 years bringing U.S. History to life for generations of Picacho students.
Building relationships is at the heart of Bunny’s classroom. She takes time to get to know her students, listens to them, and makes sure they feel seen and valued. What she loves most about teaching is the students themselves. She values their authenticity and appreciates that they are grounded and kind. Beyond the classroom, Bunny is also well known for running Picacho’s concession stand, where her popcorn has achieved legendary status, and many would say it’s worth stopping by just for that alone.
From lessons on the past to moments that students will always remember, Bunny Medina is helping create the best kind of history at Picacho. Thank you, Bunny, for making Picacho a poppin’ place where students truly Thrive. 💛

Las Cruces Public Schools and STS-New Mexico are teaming up with local businesses to reward students who choose to ride the bus! Ride the bus on Wednesday, Feb. 11 and you’ll be entered into our Grand Prize Drawing!
We’ll select three winners — one elementary, one middle, and one high school student — with prizes including:
• A tablet
• A bike
• PlayStations
• AirPods
• And even a scholarship for one high school senior!
(Winners verified through official bus logs.)
Riding the bus is safe, reliable and saves gas. Bus riders also help provide smoother drop-offs and pick-ups at school because there are fewer cars on campus.
Mark your calendars and be sure to be on the bus Feb. 11!

Today we celebrate Pamela Cort, LCPS Board President representing District 2 — a lifelong educator, devoted advocate, and proud Las Cruces resident of 30 years.
Madame Cort spent 31 years in the classroom, including 26 as a beloved French teacher at Las Cruces High School. A third-generation educator, her passion for teaching and supporting students runs deep. She was honored as LCPS Teacher of the Year (2012) and New Mexico Teacher of the Year (2013), where she championed cultural and linguistic diversity statewide and nationally.
Since retiring, Madame Cort has continued shaping education through professional development, state and national teacher networks, and her service on the LCPS Board of Education. She is especially proud of helping create the district’s Gender Inclusion and Sustainability policies — meaningful steps that reflect the Board’s commitment to students and community.
Madame Cort's favorite part of Board service? Visiting schools and connecting with students — the heart of her “why.”
When she’s not serving LCPS, Madame Cort loves traveling, exploring languages and cultures, hiking with her husband and their Labrador Retriever and practicing yoga (she recently completed her 200-hour training!).
Thank you, Madame Cort, for your unwavering dedication to our students, staff, and Las Cruces community. 💜📚✨


Today we proudly celebrate Teresa Tenorio, now serving her second four-year term on the Las Cruces Public Schools Board of Education. Teresa ran for school board to share her perspective as a parent, her courage as an education advocate, and her commitment to ethical, responsible leadership.
A proud New Mexican raised in Santa Rosa, Teresa comes from a long line of educators — 12 in her family across three generations! With parents who were public school teachers, she grew up understanding the power of strong public education. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree from UNM and later dedicated her career to public health research focused on underserved communities.
Since moving to Las Cruces in 2011, Teresa and her spouse, Manuel Sanchez, have raised their three daughters in LCPS schools. She’s been an active community member, coaching youth basketball, teaching catechism, and leading LC Moms on the Move.
Ms. Tenorio's advocacy for public education began in 2015 and continues to guide her work today. Her values are rooted in inclusive learning, teacher autonomy, whole-child support, community partnerships, and informed local decision-making.
💬 Her proudest moments on the board?
“Seeing our students present, compete, and perform; watching teachers and staff support their students; and witnessing principals advocate for their schools. I’m constantly reassured by the leadership across our district, always working in the best interest of kids.”
💬 Why she chose to serve:
“I was encouraged by parents and teachers — and inspired by Bernie Sanders when he urged us all to get involved and run for office!”
💬 Outside the boardroom:
Ms. Tenorio enjoys long walks, spending time with family, and yes — attending school functions all across LCPS. "For my own kids, and all LCPS students - there are so many fun events to choose from!"
Thank you, Ms. Tenorio, for your passion, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to the students and families of Las Cruces Public Schools. 💜📚✨

Seniors, it’s time to start applying for scholarships! The FirstLight Community Foundation Scholarship supports graduating high school seniors in El Paso, Fort Bliss, and Dona Ana County, as well as dependents of FirstLight FCU employees.
Recipients are selected based on extracurricular involvement, GPA, and a video submission. Personality and creativity are encouraged, share what makes you, you!
*Deadline to apply: Friday, March 20, 2026, 10:59 PM
Scan the QR Code on flyer or click the link to learn more: https://apply.mykaleidoscope.com/program/FirstLightCommunityFoundationScholarship2026

Attention LCPS families! You’re invited to join us at MacArthur Community Elementary School for a family-friendly workshop focused on building healthy sleep habits for children.
This is a family event, all are welcome. Join us on at MacArthur, 655 N Fourth St., Thursday, Jan. 29, in the cafeteria from 5:30pm-7:30pm, where we’ll be learning the importance of sleep through a routine building activity.
Dinner will be provided along with a token of appreciation.
Better rest helps students arrive at school focused, engaged, and ready to thrive. See the flyer to learn more.
For any questions contact: Julie Estrada @ (575) 386-5131 or jestrada@aitkids.com
¡Operación: Éxito con el Sueño!
¡Atención familias de LCPS! Están invitados a acompañarnos en la Escuela Primaria Comunitaria MacArthur para un taller familiar enfocado en la creación de hábitos de sueño saludables para los niños.
Este es un evento familiar, todos son bienvenidos. Acompáñennos en MacArthur, 655 N Fourth St., el jueves 29 de enero, en la cafetería, de 5:30 p. m. a 7:30 p. m., donde aprenderemos sobre la importancia del sueño mediante una actividad para desarrollar rutinas.
Se ofrecerá cena, así como un pequeño obsequio de agradecimiento.
Un mejor descanso ayuda a que los estudiantes lleguen a la escuela concentrados, comprometidos y listos para prosperar. Consulte el volante para obtener más información.
Para cualquier pregunta, comuníquese con: Julie Estrada al (575) 386-5131 or jestrada@aitkids.com



Born and raised in Las Cruces, Bob Wofford is a lifelong Aggie, former LCHS English teacher of 34 years, and the first openly LGBTQ+ member to serve on the LCPS Board of Education. His legacy includes decades of supporting gifted students, sponsoring Amnesty International and the Gay-Straight Alliance, and even completing a Fulbright Teaching Exchange in Canada.
Mr. Wofford's passion for strengthening instruction continues today through his national work with AP English Literature. As a board member, he’s most proud of policies that make LCPS a welcoming, safe place where all students can thrive.
When asked why he serves, Mr. Wofford says it's all about students.
"Remembering that what we do as educators directly affects children’s lives,," he said. "When I work on policy, lobby legislators for funds, or visit schools and meet with parents and students, I do so because of my life-long commitment to the children of this community. "
And when he’s not in a board meeting? You’ll likely find him enjoying a long walk in the desert… with very happy dogs. 🐾
Thank you, Mr. Wofford, for your dedication to LCPS and our community! 💜📚✨


• Shout out to our Student Advisor, Alexa of Organ Mountain High School, for her outstanding leadership and her work with the Las Cruces Public Schools Board of Education as a student representative for our high schools at LCPS!
• Thank you to Aiden from Tombaugh Elementary for leading the Pledge of Allegiance and the Salute to the State Flag in both English and Spanish during the School Board of Education meeting this week.
• Thank you to the Centennial Chamber Choir, under the direction of Jenna Batista, for their wonderful performance Tuesday night of a Canadian folk song from Quebec, arranged by Donald Patriquin.
• Congratulations to Karin Hite, Principal of Sonoma Elementary, on being recognized as the 2025 National Education Association New Mexico Administrator of the Year. This honor reflects decades of leadership, dedication, and heart. Principal Hite was proudly nominated by Irma Valdespino, President of CSEC-LC. Thank you for more than 30 years of service. Your leadership continues to inspire the staff, students, and families you serve.
• We’d like to wish a happy retirement to Cynthia Donnelly, Chief of Human Resources at Las Cruces Public Schools, and thank her for her dedication and leadership from 2020–2026. Jesse Perrio, who has stepped in to lead HR on an interim basis, shared that since joining the team five years ago, Cindy has been his colleague, role model, leader, and greatest supporter.
This game will be livestreamed exclusively on LCPS.TV: https://youtube.com/live/7ZQ_-Q8yPVw?feature=share
Get your tickets today!

Organ Mountain High School is proud to partner with Parents Reaching Out to provide free family education and support for students with disabilities and their families.
These sessions are part of OMHS’s Spring 2026 Transition Initiative to help families understand services, supports, and post-school pathways. All families in the area are welcome, including middle and elementary school families who want to begin preparing early.
The next session will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 28 from 6pm-7pm at Organ Mountain High School.
You can register here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/q6yxwkz or scan the QR Code on the flyer.
If you have questions or would like to share ideas for future sessions, please contact Sarah Mata-Espinosa (smataespinosa@lcps.net) or Rachel Polk (rpolk@lcps.net).


