The February 10 Gadsden Independent School District Board of Education meeting reflected the strength, vision, and dedication across our district.

Superintendent Search Work Session

The Board continued its work with consultants to thoughtfully design the superintendent search process. Key elements discussed included:

• Minimum experience requirements in teaching, campus leadership, and central office administration

• Desired leadership qualities emphasizing:

• Instructional leadership

• Superintendent–Board relations

• Finance and fiscal oversight

• Integrity and ethical leadership

• Effective communication systems

The role of community advisory groups representing staff, parents, and community members

The Board reaffirmed its commitment to selecting a leader who will continue strengthening GISD’s instructional programs, bilingual initiatives, Career and Technical Education pathways, and nationally recognized educator excellence.

Gadsden High School NJROTC Recognition

The GHS NJROTC program presented an inspiring overview of its accomplishments, including:

• 10 consecutive Distinguished Unit with Academic Honors awards

• Recognition as a Top 10% unit nationally

• Regional competition success

• Extensive community service efforts

• College and military exposure trips across multiple states

Cadets shared how NJROTC has expanded opportunities for students — in many cases providing their first experiences traveling outside New Mexico or visiting college campuses. The program continues to build leadership, service, and discipline among our students.

Newly Recognized National Board Certified Teachers (2025–26)

The Board proudly recognized the following educators for earning National Board Certification:

• Carrie Ann Bradshaw – Vado Elementary (Literacy: Reading Language Arts)

• Gabriela Dolsa, PhD – Language, Equity & Cultural Arts (English as a New Language)

• Anavelia Parra – Academic Services (Literacy: Reading Language Arts)

• Carmen Cervantes – Santa Teresa High School (English Language Arts)

• Sarah Hudspeth – Santa Teresa High School (English Language Arts)

• Lesley Johnson – Santa Teresa High School (English Language Arts)

• Salvador Melendrez – Gadsden High School (Social Studies – History)

• Isela Palomares – Gadsden High School (Career and Technical Education)

National Board Certification is widely regarded as one of the most rigorous and respected credentials in the teaching profession, requiring deep reflection, demonstrated instructional excellence, and measurable student impact.

Gadsden ISD remains focused on leadership excellence, student opportunity, and continuous improvement. We thank our Board members, staff, students, and community for their continued partnership.