Gadsden ISD Board of Education Celebrates Student Achievements, Welcomes New Board Member
The Gadsden Independent School District Board of Education celebrated student achievements in academics and the arts, welcomed a new board member, and heard updates on student activities during its regular meeting Thursday, November 12.
New Board Member Sworn In
Richard Yanez was officially sworn in as the newest member of the Gadsden ISD Board of Education, representing District 4. With more than 25 years of experience in education, Yanez brings an extensive background as an educator and athletic coach, including previous service as a teacher and head baseball coach at Gadsden High School.
Santa Teresa High School Students Earn Historic AP Capstone Distinction
The Board recognized Saul Hernandez and James Berning of Santa Teresa High School as the first students in Gadsden ISD history to earn the prestigious AP Capstone Diploma from the College Board.
The distinction recognizes students who successfully complete AP Seminar and AP Research, demonstrating advanced skills in critical thinking, research, collaboration, and academic communication. Students must also earn qualifying scores on at least four additional Advanced Placement exams.
Berning, a 2026 graduate, passed 12 AP exams, earning the equivalent of 34 college credits before enrolling at New Mexico State University. Hernandez, a member of the Class of 2027, has already passed 11 AP exams, representing the equivalent of 27 college credits, and continues to challenge himself with additional college-level coursework.
Hernandez attended the meeting and was recognized by the Board for this outstanding achievement and is shown in the photos above.
District Art Programs Recognized for Southern New Mexico State Fair Awards
The Board also celebrated the outstanding achievements of Gadsden ISD students and art educators at the 2026 Southern New Mexico State Fair.
During the recognition, district Fine Arts representatives highlighted the creativity and dedication of students and teachers whose artwork earned top honors across multiple grade levels.
Among the district's achievements, Riverside Elementary School earned Reserved Grand Champion and first Best of Show, while Berino Elementary School, Santa Teresa High School, and Chaparral Middle School each earned first Best of Show honors in their respective divisions.
Additional award-winning schools included Vado Elementary, Sunrise Elementary, Desert View Elementary, Yucca Heights Elementary, Santa Teresa Elementary, Desert Trail Elementary, La Union Elementary, Chaparral Elementary, Gadsden Middle School, Gadsden High School, and Santa Teresa Middle School.
The recognition highlighted the district's continued commitment to fine arts education and the dedication of educators who help students develop their artistic talents. Click here to view the art displays for each school.
Student Representative Shared Campus Updates
Santa Teresa High School student representative Mathias Hagan provided the Board with an update on ongoing student activities and events at his campus.
His presentation offered a student perspective on campus life and highlighted opportunities for student involvement at Santa Teresa High School.
Gadsden ISD congratulates all recognized students, educators, and schools for their accomplishments and thanks them for representing the district with excellence.