SantaFeToday.com Santa Fe’s Hometown News
By SFPS
In partnership with Nusenda Credit Union, Santa Fe Public Schools (SFPS) is pleased to announce that Tesuque Elementary teacher, Michelle Barnard, is the April recipient of the Teacher of the Month honor – an initiative to honor classroom teachers for their outstanding contributions to SFPS students, their families, and the community they serve. Barnard was recognized on Friday, April 12th with an award, gift card, and certificate presented by June Manning, Membership Development and Retention for Nusenda, and SFPS Superintendent Dr. Veronica C. Garcia. Each month, Nusenda will recognize a classroom teacher as the Teacher of the Month for SFPS.
“One can never say ‘thank you’ enough to those whose dedicated service to education opens a world of opportunity and discovery for children. This is why I am pleased to identify and honor outstanding SFPS teachers through a Teacher of the Month recognition initiative. I am so appreciative of Nusenda’s support and sponsorship of this wonderful program,” said Superintendent Dr. García.
“Our congratulations to Michelle Barnard on being recognized for her outstanding contributions,” she said.
Students, parents, teachers, secretaries, principals, community members, and any other stakeholder may nominate a classroom teacher for this honor by completing the electronic nomination form on the SFPS website at www.sfps.info or by completing a paper nomination form located at the front desk of all school sites. A diverse group of non-SFPS staff and community partners reviews all nominations before selecting teachers for the monthly honor. The Teacher of the Month receives a gift from Nusenda and recognition on the District website and social media.
Barnard has been a kindergarten or first grade teacher at Tesuque Elementary for two years. Prior to working at Tesuque Elementary, she taught in Albuquerque. She graduated from New Mexico Highlands University with a BA in Early Childhood Education, specializing in PreK-3rd grade education. She has taught Pre-K and Kindergarten for over 20 years. She “loves incorporating all my expertise into having a fun and productive educational day. I am a lifelong learner who truly enjoys bettering my teaching practices and connecting with all children to help them achieve their best capabilities in all they do.”
“This SFPS recognition program began with the support and urging of our community, which is eager to promote the incredible work of the dedicated teachers in our schools. Congratulations to our community supporters and teachers for all they do for our kids!” said Superintendent Dr. García.
