Steven J. Carrillo

NMPED News

SANTA FE — The Public Education Commission’s (PEC) Steven J. Carrillo was honored Thursday by the Greater Albuquerque Chamber of Commerce as its “Education Champion of the Year” during a virtual awards ceremony.

As commissioner, Carrillo represents District 10, which encompasses northern New Mexico except for the Four Corners. There are 16 charter schools in his district. The PEC, which authorizes 57 state-chartered charter schools in New Mexico, consists of 10 elected Commissioners who serve staggered terms of four years with no term limits, as outlined in state law.

“I feel very honored. I’m very passionate about public education and always do what’s best for our kids,” he said. “Serving on the PEC has been a great extension of my past work as a board member for Santa Fe Public Schools. Working with students has been the most fun, important and consequential work of my life.”

Carrillo has been on the PEC since January 2021. He served on the Santa Fe Public Schools’ Board of Education from 2011-2019, two of those years as President.

Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Terri Cole said Carrillo is a natural fit for the award.

“While we were advocating for the renewal and expansion of several high-performing charter schools this past December, we were struck by just how clearly and strongly Steve articulated the case for the launch and growth of great charters,” she said. “The kind of leadership Steve brings is a real breath of fresh air.”

PED Director of Options for Parents and Families Corina Chavez said she is happy to see a commissioner recognized for the time, commitment and contributions made to public education.

“As a volunteer, it’s amazing,” she said. “He has been a voice for accountability for all charters and is ready to celebrate charter successes.”

For more information about Carrillo and the PEC, click here.