TENM News:

SANTA FE — Transform Education New Mexico (TENM), the coalition of education, tribal and community leaders advancing a new vision for our public education system in New Mexico, is elated to announce that Loretta Trujillo has assumed the role of Executive Director for the organization. 

Having dedicated her life to education, Trujillo brings two decades of classroom experience and more recently, an administrative background working as part of the Indigenous Education Initiative.

“I am excited to continue to do what I love – helping young people to realize their own potential,” Trujillo said. “I’m also honored to assume this role at such a critical time for public education and education equity in the state, leaning into my expertise in culturally responsive teaching and pedagogy, grassroots community building and a deep sense of pride in being Nuevo Mejicana.”

The landmark 2018 Yazzie/Martinez lawsuit identified four student groups whose constitutional rights to a sufficient, equitable education were being violated – Native American students, English language learners, students with disabilities, and low-income students. 

Immediately prior to joining TENM, Trujillo worked directly with Indigenous youth, Indigenous scholars, artists, and district leaders, to build out a STEAM Initiative in Santa Fe Public Schools that centered the Arts in serving students’ curiosity around careers in design and technology fields. 

As a College and Career Advisor for the Department of Native American Student Services, Trujillo was able to raise over $500,000 in scholarships and grants, ensuring the success of her students who have gone on to pursue a range of exciting careers. She has also been involved with the national AVID program (Advancement Via Individual Determination), where she saw the need for advocacy for students of color in public education. 

More information about Transform Education NM can be found online at transformeducationnm.org.