RRPS District Office Fine Arts Staff

A native of Mt. Pleasant, Michigan, Dr. Kurt Schmidt received his Bachelor of Music Education degree in 1991 from Central Michigan University, where he studied French horn, instrumental music education, and German. He also holds a Master of Arts in Liberal Arts (1995) from St. John’s College in Annapolis, Maryland, and a Doctor of Education degree (2023) from the University of New Mexico.

Dr. Schmidt played in numerous small and large ensembles in Michigan and the Washington, DC area, and lived for a time in Vienna, Austria, where he studied horn with members of the Vienna Philharmonic and played in the Wiener Waldhorn Verein (Vienna Horn Society).

Dr. Schmidt previously served as band director in the Carson City-Crystal Area Schools (Michigan) and at The Maret School (Washington, DC), and spent 16 years as Director of Bands at Rio Rancho High School, where he taught Band, AP Music Theory, and served as Fine Arts & Electives Instructional Leader. Before becoming Executive Director of Fine Arts, Dr. Schmidt served as assistant principal at Eagle Ridge Middle School in Rio Rancho for three years. He is currently the Chair of the New Mexico Advisory Council on Arts Education, and served as president of the New Mexico Music Educators Association District VI.

telephone: (505) 962-1355

kurt.schmidt@rrps.net

Grew up an Air Force brat. I grew up traveling with my family. Graduated from Santa Fe High School and went on to take courses at Santa Fe Community College where I received an Associate in Business. Retired from the State of New Mexico in 2010 where I worked in Accounting. Started working for RRPS Fine Arts in 2010. I enjoy working with all my co-workers and learning about music and the arts. I have one son and enjoy going to shows, for walks and to all his sports events.

telephone: (505) 962-9432

angie.alire@rrps.net

I was born and raised in San Francisco/BA a long time ago in a galaxy far, far away. I attended Public Schools from Kindergarten through Junior College and loved every minute of it. I'm short a semester for an AA degree but by now, I likely need 2 more years to get there with current requirements!

I originally began a career in Lending and Operations in Credit Unions and did so for over 20 years. That was, until I met the Associate Superintendent of Human Resources at a weekend auto sale at San Mateo Credit Union. I was funding a car loan for him and his wife and he suggested that I apply for a position at San Mateo-Foster City School District in their Business Office. He thought I was good at numbers but I wondered if he noticed that I was using an adding machine calculator! I wasn't looking for a new career but thought "why not check it out and see". I was hired and worked at the District Office in our Business department. I loved it and was hooked. I wished I had known about working for a School District 20 years earlier as it changed the direction of where I thought I would always be, and in a very good way. I now have surpassed 20 years of District Office/School Administration experience. I've been so fortunate.

I enjoy spending time with my brother and sis-in-law, nephews, great nephews, a niece, and my dear family of friends (many from the 7th grade and high school), walking, shopping, decorating, talking (who knew)! I recently adopted a 3-year-old sweet little French Bulldog, Elly. With Elly in the picture now, I see a lot of road trips back home to California to see my cousin and family of friends.

I can't say enough good things about RRPS and I'm so grateful to be working with all of you in Fine Arts.

Loretta Risso

telephone: (505) 938-0300 Ext. 52282

loretta.risso@rrps.net

Sam Nesbitt is an active educator, clinician, adjudicator and performer. He has taught for 18 years in Albuquerque, Los Lunas, and Rio Rancho at the elementary, middle school, and high school levels. In his time at Eisenhower Middle School, the Symphonic Band was awarded the honor of Grand Champions of the NMAA State Concert Band Competition 6 times, and the EMS Jazz Band was awarded first place at the Fort Lewis College Jazz Festival four times as well as being selected as the New Mexico Music Educators Association's Honor Jazz Band in 2018. Throughout his teaching career his bands have consistently earned superior ratings at district and state performance assessments. He is regularly hired to adjudicate district performance assessments at the middle and high school level and has been given the honor to serve as the conductor of many district honor bands throughout New Mexico. Over the course of 12 years with the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program, Mr. Nesbitt conducted the Junior Youth Band and the Youth Concert Orchestra in performances throughout the community as well as an annual gala performance at Popejoy Hall, and he served as the conductor of the New Mexico Jazz Workshop Middle School Honor Jazz Band for 8 years.

When he isn't teaching, Mr. Nesbitt stays busy arranging music for show choirs and bands across the country, composing for various media including commercials and short films, and performing in the local music scene. As a performer, he has shared the stage with The Four Tops, The Temptations, The O'Jays, Bernadette Peters, the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra, and the Santa Fe Symphony.

telephone: (505) 962-1354

samuel.nesbitt@rrps.ent

My name is Juan Torres, and I am a percussionist and educator originally from Ecuador. I started my music career at an early age in a sister network of El Sistema and continued playing in orchestras through middle school and high school.

In 2009, I moved to Chicago to pursue a B.A. in Music Education at VanderCook College of Music. While in college, I was selected to play timpani with The Cavaliers Drum and Bugle Corps, who went on to win the 2011 Fred Sanford Best Percussion Performance Award.

Since graduating in 2013, I have worked as a band director, percussion specialist, and private lessons teacher in charter, non-profit, and public schools in Illinois, Texas, and Colorado. Thanks to the hard work and commitment of teachers, students, and families, the groups that I have worked with have earned multiple awards, including 1st place at the Colorado 1A Marching Band Championship four years in a row.

Playing in a music ensemble is a great way to develop valuable skills such as attention to detail, perseverance, and teamwork. I feel truly blessed to be able to help my students learn an instrument and experience the thrill of putting together a concert for their friends and family.

In my free time, you can find me hiking, going on runs, or watching movies with my wife and our dog, Luna.

telephone: (505) 962-1354

juan.torres@rrps.net

Kristen Pickens is an experienced Orchestra Teacher, Violinist, Upper String Specialist and Orchestra Clinician. Kristen is a teacher in the elementary orchestra program who is also responsible for maintenance of string instruments. Throughout the district, you can often find Kristen in a long-term, supportive roll when an Orchestra/Music Teacher cannot be in the class.

Kristen studied extensively with the violin professors at Denver University, Northern Arizona University and University of New Mexico. As a long time New Mexican resident, Kristen helps her family run Hummingbird Music Camp, operates her own private violin studio, is also an Industry Session Violinist and Worship Team Leader at church where she plays a variety of instruments.

Kristen believes that family and children are a gift. Her elementary orchestra classes are a safe and fun atmosphere where each student quickly develops technique, tone, musicianship and the ability to read music. Kristen enjoys teaching children to help develop invaluable skills and along the way a love for music!

telephone:(505)962-1368

kristen.pickens@rrps.net

Ali Brasher Austell has a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Kent State University in Ohio where she studied with cellist, Kieth Robinson, and the Miami String Quartet, and was a member of the KSU President’s String Quartet. After teaching orchestra in Edmond, Oklahoma for four years, she decided to move back to New Mexico in 2016 to work on her Master’s degree in Music Education at the University of New Mexico where she was a cellist in the UNM graduate string quartet. Having spent several years with the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Program as a student, she rejoined the program as a conductor the same year. She currently co-conducts the Junior Orchestra alongside her husband, Alex Austell. Ms. Austell has been the orchestra teacher at Lincoln Middle School and Rio Rancho High School since 2019, and enjoys working with an amazing team of educators and the students of RRPS.

As an accomplished cellist, Ms. Austell has performed in South Africa, Brazil, Hawaii and cities across the US and continues to teach private lessons in the Rio Rancho area. Ms. Austell has a love of music, education, and the cello, and enjoys spending time with her husband, Alex Austell, and their two pets in Rio Rancho.

mary.brasher@rrps.net

RRPS Elementary Schools

Cielo Azul Elementary School

My name is Molly Dodd, I’m from Tucson, Arizona, and this is my sixth year in New Mexico, and second at Cielo Azul Elementary. I have a Bachelors in Art Education from Northern Arizona University, and Masters in Liberal Arts from Saint John’s College in Santa Fe. I’ve taught Art and English as a foreign language in New Mexico, Arizona, Alaska, Minnesota, the Republic of Georgia, and was part of the first Peace Corps cohort in Kosovo.

In my art classroom I enjoy introducing students to new artists and media, including ceramics, acrylic and tempera painting, pastels, collages, and more. I love researching new artists and artistic traditions, and teaching my students about them.

I enjoy spending time in nature with my husband and daughter, hiking, and exploring new places. In my own artwork I enjoy making encaustic (melted wax) paintings, usually of landscapes, ruins, and the natural world.

molly.dodd@rrps.net

I am Amber Jones, a lifetime resident of New Mexico. I was born and raised in the Farmington area. I have a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education and Music from UNM and a Masters Degree in Educational Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Phoenix.

I love teaching elementary music and find great joy in seeing the students become successful young musicians. I have certifications in Kodaly and First Steps in Music and I use a variety of teaching methods in order to meet the needs of all of my students. I feel that music education is an important part of development that allows students to express themselves, work with others and stimulate creativity.

When I am not teaching, I enjoy writing music, playing piano, and reading.

amber.jones@rrps.net

Colinas Del Norte Elementary School

Hi all! My name is Laura Jackson and I’m the Music Director at Colinas Del Norte Elementary School. I Graduated from University of Texas in El Paso in 2000 with a Bachelor's in Music Education focusing on Instrumental studies. That same year I began teaching as a Middle School Head Band Director in El Paso. TX. In 2006 I found a new calling and moved up to Rio Rancho, NM to teach Elementary Music. I taught at Rio Rancho Elementary for 7 years then moved over to Colinas Del Norte in 2013. I have completed 2 levels of the Orff-Schulwerk elementary music curriculum along with the 1st and 2nd Level of World Music Drumming. My main instrument is flute and enjoy singing Blues and Rock as well. I love to garden and dabble in various forms of art. My little family consists of me and my good boy Gus (Southern White Scott American Bulldog). Thank you for continuing the love of music and sharing that with your child.

“Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.” ― Plato

laura.jackson@rrps.net

Donna Barnitz believes she has the best job in the world as art teacher at Colinas del Norte Elementary. Guiding enthusiastic elementary age students while they explore varied art media and introducing them to art and artists around the globe is her passion. Her classroom is a joyful place of learning and experimenting.

Mrs. Barnitz grew up in Mountainair NM and graduated from New Mexico State University. She has a BS in Elementary Education and an MA in Educational Administration. Prior to teaching art at Colinas for the last 8 years, she was a 5th and 6th grade teacher in Las Cruces. Mrs. Barnitz was recently recognized as the New Mexico Art Educators Elementary Art Teacher of the Year. She has been an artist-in-residence at several National Parks and Monuments.

In her free time she is a fiber artist, gardener and reader.

donna.barnitz@rrps.net

Enchanted Hills Elementary School

My name is Mrs. Daniella Holmes. I am in my 11th year of teaching, and my 3rd year as the music teacher at Enchanted Hills Elementary. I am originally from El Paso, Texas. I graduated with a Bachelors of Music Education with an emphasis in Percussion and a Bachelors of Music Business from New Mexico State University in 2009. My husband Daniel and I have 3 kids and 3 dogs. I love painting, crocheting, reading, camping, playing drums and the Denver Broncos! This year my vision for my music program is to establish a culture of positivity, acceptance, and creating through the exploration of music.

daniella.holmes@rrps.net

I am originally from Fairport, NY. Having graduated from Binghamton University with a degree in Art Studio, I moved on to earn an MFA and an MST in Art Education from Rochester Institute of Technology. I have taught at the college level, and have also taught elementary art in Western NY for the last 17 years. My wife, daughter, and I moved to New Mexico about a year and a half ago, and we absolutely love it here. The landscape and culture is very rich and inspiring. We all love to hike and explore the beautiful state of New Mexico. I am also a professional artist, and you can find my work in galleries in Old Town, Santa Fe, and Taos. I am very grateful to have the opportunity to serve the community and students of Rio Rancho.

chad.cleveland@rrps.net

Ernest Stapleton Elementary School

I am originally from Colorado spring, Colorado but I just moved from San Antonio, Texas. I graduated with a BFA from Colorado State University with a concentration in Pottery and Fiber arts with a emphasis in Art Education. This is my second year teaching, and it is definitely my passion in life. I believe every child is an artist and critical thinking and creative growth starts in the art classroom. Some of my hobbies include, crocheting, throwing mugs, baking and cooking.

Lydia .Berndt@rrps.net

Joshua Zirpel was born and raised in Rio Rancho, New Mexico and attended Puesta Del Sol, Eagle Ridge, Rio Rancho Mid High, and Rio Rancho High School. Mr. Z got his Bachelors of Music Education from the University of New Mexico in 2013. Mr. Z chose to teach because music was always the strongest force in his life and he wants to help students discover their innate musicality and learn to love music. When Mr. Z is not teaching music, he is hanging out with his 2 daughters, playing softball, or going ATV riding.

joshua.zirpel@rrps.net

I am in my 7th year teaching music, coming into teaching as a second career. I have a Bachelor's degree in Music Education with certifications from the Gordon Institute for Music Learning in Elementary General Music and Early Childhood, as well as certifications in both Kodály and Orff Pedagogies. I studied voice in college but I also play the clarinet, ukulele, and a little piano. Before becoming a music teacher, I earned a BA in Spanish and an MA in Latin American Studies. My husband and I have been married for 13 years and we have a daughter in 3rd grade. When I'm not teaching, you can find me hanging out with my family. I love arts and crafts, cooking delicious food, playing video games, solving puzzles, reading, making music (duh!), and learning new things. I strive to pass along that love of learning to all my students as we explore music together.

natalie.tiesi@rrps.net

Joe Harris Elementary School

Mr. Kramer was born in Albuquerque and was raised in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. He is an alumnus of Martin Luther King Elementary, Lincoln Middle School, and Rio Rancho High School. He earned his Bachelor’s in Music Performance from the University of New Mexico and holds a Level II teaching license for PreK-12th grade performing arts in the state of New Mexico. He holds the first level in Elementary General Music from the Gordon Institute for Music Learning. He is interested in the ways children learn music and how that informs his practice. Music is NOT a language but we do learn music similarly to learning a language. He believes that all children deserve a high quality music education because all humans are musical. Music is made up of skills and anyone can learn and develop those skills to a high level. In his spare time, Mr. Kramer plays with his son, reads books, and is an enthusiastic video gamer. His most recent interest is gardening and he is learning how to create a food forest in his backyard.

william.kramer@rrps.net

Maggie Cordova Elementary School

Hi! My name is Catherine Danner, and I teach General Music at Maggie Cordova Elementary, as well as the Elementary 5th Grade Band for the district. Growing up in the military, I lived all over, but I have called Rio Rancho home for the longest amount of time. I earned my Bachelor of Arts degree in Music Performance (Flute) from the University of Notre Dame in 2001, and my Master’s degree in Music Education from New Mexico State University in 2005. The reason why I teach music is because of my high school band director. I always knew I wanted to be a teacher, but it wasn’t until my high school band director really fostered my love of music into what it is today that I realized I wanted to make sure that I passed on my love and knowledge of music to the next generation. In my spare time, I love reading, doing crafts, and traveling. I’m an avid movie watcher, and love to use my collection of random knowledge at trivia nights from time to time.

catherine.danner@rrps.net

Hello! My name is Krystle Salazar and I was born and raised in Albuquerque, New Mexico. I went to college at the University of New Mexico. It was there I received my Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education with an emphasis in Visual Arts in 2008 and my Master's degree in Elementary Education in 2010. I have been teaching for the past 12 years in both the elementary classroom with experience in grades 1-4 and in the middle school classroom where I taught art. I am currently teaching Art at Maggie Cordova Elementary School. I have always had a passion for art. I wanted to share the joy of creating with children and not only show them how much fun art can be but that it can also teach us very important lessons in perseverance, self expression, and confidence. In my spare time I like to create and work on my art which includes drawing with pencil, ink, and markers and painting with acrylic and watercolor paint. Some of my hobbies (besides my art) include going to the gym, reading a good book, shopping, watching movies, and traveling!

krystle.salazar@rrps.net

Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary School

"I am a proud RRPS Graduate! I attended Rio Rancho Public schools, K-12, and graduated from UNM with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education. My reason for teaching comes from an admiration of my parents who were both music educators and an inspiration from the positive impact of my experience as a student in the RRPS Music program. Music is something that has always been a cornerstone of my identity and hobbies. I’ve played Trombone since 6th Grade and have played Piano since I was five! (I have also developed a newfound love for recorder) Being able to share that passion and knowledge with others is the best career I could ever hope to have. It is a happy coincidence that I’m now teaching at the elementary school I attended as a child!

When not teaching music, my hobbies are still music centric. I enjoy attending musical performances and productions as well as consuming various media that incorporate music."

chris.fleming@rrps.net

Erika Wadsworth is a K-5 general music teacher and fifth grade band director at Martin Luther King, Jr. Elementary School, where she has taught since Fall 2012. She holds a Master of Music degree in Music Education from the University of New Mexico, and a Bachelor of Music degree in Instrumental Music Education from Arizona State University. She is certified in Orff-Schulwerk and Kodály, two approaches to music education that inspire her teaching every day. A lifelong flutist, she is passionate about creating diverse musical experiences with young musicians and believes that music is essential to humanity.

Erika grew up in Albuquerque but lived in the Phoenix area for several years before returning home. Prior to joining Rio Rancho Public Schools, she taught fourth, fifth, and sixth grade band at four elementary schools as a traveling band director in the Scottsdale Unified School District. When she is not teaching, she can be found spending time with her husband, whom she originally met while playing piccolo in the Sun Devil Marching Band at Arizona State University, and their two children, who love exploring music in their own ways.

erika.wadsworth@rrps.net

Hello everyone! My name is Chantel Hernandez and I am from Orlando, Florida. Although this is my first year teaching in New Mexico - Martin Luther King Jr. Elementary, I was an Art Teacher for three years in Florida. I have a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Design and Merchandising. Before I began teaching, I was a Teacher Assistant for nearly two years for the ESOL Program in my previous school. With a background in art and my new found love for teaching, I became an Art Teacher.

My greatest joy is taking students traveling around the globe to meet new artists, cultures, and art styles. Everyone from Frida Kahlo in Mexico to Fernando Llort in EL Salvador or Monet and Van Gogh in Europe. Students in my art classroom feel represented in their cultures and learn about the world through art. We also learn that art is a positive outlet for expression, feelings, and how we see the world.

In my free time, I enjoy spending time in nature and going on adventures with my daughter. Personally in my art, I love to draw and paint landscapes or flowers, college, take a thousand photos, and make jewelry.

chantel.hernandez@rrps.net

Puesta Del Sol Elementary School

I am from Newton, KS and graduated from a small Liberal Arts school named Bethel College in 2017. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Bassoon Performance with an Education License. I started teaching elementary music in Wichita, KS in 2017. My first school had a newcomer program that helped children who were refugees get into public school. Over 14 languages were spoken there! I moved to Albuquerque with my partner in 2019 so he could study music at UNM and I have been teaching at Puesta Del Sol ever since. I teach elementary music because I love creating joyful musical experiences for the students. I find ways to connect what is concrete in a student’s world to abstract musical concepts. The lightbulb moment when a student independently reads notated music is what fuels my passion. I am a fully Kodaly certified teacher and a Level I Orff certified teacher. In my classroom you will find students singing folk songs, playing games connected to the songs, practicing folk dances, accompanying on instruments, and learning social skills through our activities. In my spare time I enjoy board games, bike rides, running, yoga, and trying new recipes. I also love playing with my corgi, Clara, who is named after the female composer, Clara Schumann.

elizabeth.lind@rrps.net

Jocelyn Salaz was born and raised in Cuba, New Mexico. She received a BAFA in Art History and an MA in Art Education from the University of New Mexico She taught elementary and some high school art classes for Cuba Independent Schools for 6 years and currently works as an elementary art educator at Puesta del Sol Elementary School in Rio Rancho. While attending graduate school at UNM she worked with teens and small children at Enlace Comunitario, an organization in Albuquerque that provides domestic violence services to Spanish-speaking women and children. She has been in the Art21 Educators program since 2010, first as part of the second cohort of teachers to go through the program, then serving as a mentor and presenting and participating in Art21 Summer Institutes. Her work is included in the NAEA’s “Culturally Sensitive Art Education in a Global World” edited by Manifold, Willis and Zimmerman. She has displayed art at UNM’s John Sommers Gallery and the National Hispanic Cultural Center in Albuquerque, NM. She attended Arquetopia’s International Art Residency in Puebla, Mexico twice in 2014 and 2019, and was invited into its current Alumni Honors online residency program which will culminate in a residency in Oaxaca, Mexico in 2023.

jocelyn.salaz@rrps.net

Rio Rancho Elementary School

Ana Maria lived most of her childhood in Europe as a military child. Her family moved to New Mexico when Ana María was a fifth grader, and she attended the school that she currently teaches at! Ana María then got her BA degree in Vocal Performance at New Mexico State University in 2003 and later continued her education and got her Masters in 2006 from the University of the Pacific in Stockton California. She received a Masters in Music Education and began teaching right away. This is her 16th year teaching and 14th at Rio Rancho Elementary school! She strives to know every student and to keep her classroom always innovative and fun, even during the pandemic! She creates a dark room and she uses black lights a lot of the time, it is Mrs. Dark’s dark room. Ana María hopes to continue to reach students and families and to advocate for music education!

anamaria.dark@rrps.net

Loreen LaBarre has a lifetime love of the arts and over 25 years experience teaching in both the private and public sectors. Originally from Upstate NY she attended SUNY Plattsburgh and graduated with a BFA in studio art. Later, she earned her MFA in painting from the University of Tulsa.

While in graduate school Loreen was also employed as a museum educator at the Philbrook Museum in Tulsa, OK. It was there that she discovered her love of working with children and developing curriculum to get them excited about learning. After graduate school she and her husband owned and operated a private art school for children in New York for 8 years before moving to New Mexico. Loreen taught elementary school art in Albuquerque for 11 years before coming to work at Rio Rancho Elementary in 2020. She is a proud Roadrunner who says she feels privileged to work with these children everyday in a joy filled environment.

loreen.labarre@rrps.net

Sandia Vista Elementary School

My name is Natalie Cundiff and I am the Music Specialist at Sandia Vista Elementary. I have just moved to Rio Rancho from Plano, Texas, where I taught Elementary Music and Middle School Choir. I graduated summa cum laude from Baylor University with a Bachelors of Music Education, specializing in choral music. I love teaching music to students! It is wonderful to be able to share with them the beauty, diversity, and power of music, and I enjoy finding new, exciting ways to broaden their musical experience. I believe that a good music education is essential to a child’s upbringing, and helps them prepare for a bright future. I especially love to sing, even when not at work, and also enjoy baking, trying new restaurants, and exploring the many hiking trails in New Mexico.

natalie.@rrps.net

My Favorites – Family Time, Reggae Music, Hooligans Baseball, Traveling, Arts & Crafts festivals and Good Coffee.

About me – I have been an RRPS Elementary Art Education Specialist since 2009. I am a native New Mexican and have my BAED in Art Education from the University of New Mexico with a PreK-12 Specialty license for Visual Arts. My concentration of studies is in Small Metal Construction and Design, and I have an affinity for handmade jewelry, clay, multimedia, and fiber arts. I have been teaching at Sandia Vista Elementary School for 11 years! I believe teaching art is the best job ever! Art provides an alternative avenue for students to develop creative problem-solving skills and gives them a voice to communicate their thoughts and ideas in a unique way. I feel that it is important to provide students’ alternative ways to learn, grow, understand the world around them and share their voice and art is my way of helping them do just that! I live in Rio Rancho with my husband, our two kids and our two dogs. You can also find me busy with our family-owned restaurant in Rio Rancho, O’Hare’s Grille & Pub, where I spend a lot of my free time!

heather.armstrong@rrps.net

Vista Grande Elementary School

My name is Mr. Drew Wichman and I’m from Greenville, Mississippi and have been in New Mexico since 2010. I have attended MDCC and the University of Southern Mississippi where my focus was on Vocal and Piano Performance, Music History and Theory, and Psychology. I have received my Orff-Schulwerk Level 3 Certification from AOSA and the University of Memphis Summer Orff Program. I am also currently the NMMEA Central District VI Vice President of General Music.

In my elementary music classroom, I use the Orff-Schulwerk approach to teaching which allows students to sing, play, move, create, and experience music before intellectualizing it. It is a joy to watch students realize that they can improvise on classroom instruments, create their own movement, and play while they are experiencing and learning about music. Some of our instruments we use include the recorder, xylophones, metallophones, glockenspiels and various types of unpitched percussion.

When I’m not in the classroom, I love creating music in my home studio, making YouTube music videos, taking long walks along the bosque, spending time with my wife and two children, traveling, camping, and finding new places to eat in the Albuquerque - Rio Rancho area.

drew.wichman@rrps.net

I was born and raised in Webster Groves, MO, a hub of great food and small town living near the big city of St. Louis. I have a BA in Art History from Truman State University and an MA in Curriculum and Instruction from New Mexico Highlands. I came to New Mexico because of my passion for early folk art that is kept alive by so many artists here. I love sharing my passions with my elementary students and helping them to find the artist in themselves. My hope is they all learn that to be an artist you don’t have to be the master of all the different forms of art, they just have to like one of them enough to keep doing it.

elizabeth.lockhart@rrps.net

RRPS Middle Schools

Eagle Ridge Middle School

Jon Robak is in his 9th year of teaching, and 5th year as the band director at Eagle Ridge Middle School. There, he conducts two beginning band classes, Cadet Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, and the Symphonic Band. He is a product of the Rio Rancho Public school system.

Mr. Robak graduated from the University of New Mexico with a Bachelor’s of Music Education in 2015. During his time at UNM, he studied saxophone with Dr. Eric Lau, and performed with the UNM Symphonic Band, Wind Symphony, Jazz Bands, a saxophone quartet, and various jazz combos.

Upon graduation, Mr. Robak served as the Assistant Band Director at Valencia High School, where his bands consistently earned superior ratings. Mr. Robak was named the NMMEA’s New and Emerging Teacher of the year in 2019.

Mr. Robak is currently pursuing a Masters of Arts in Music Education at Adams State University. He also enjoys his duties of caring for his lab/golden, Pepper, and the goofiest of golden retrievers, Ella.

jonathan.robak@rrps.net

Stephenie Wilkerson is the choir director at Rio Rancho Middle School and Eagle Ridge Middle School. She has taught elementary music for two years, and most recently has taught middle school and high school choir for eight years. Stephenie graduated from Mayfield High School in Las Cruces, NM and then attended Eastern New Mexico University where she received a Bachelor's of Music Education degree. Mrs. Wilkerson also holds a Master's of Secondary Education degree from ENMU. Stephenie and her husband, Dane, have 4 children and love to spend time outside. Their family recently moved to Albuquerque/Rio Rancho from Hobbs, NM. Mrs. Wilkerson is passionate about helping students to create something that is beautiful together in collaboration with other young musicians.

stephenie.wilkerson@rrps.net

Karen Ginther grew up in Somerset, Massachusetts, home of the “Music town Festival” where she was an active participant in orchestra, choir and drama. During her years in Somerset, she also was a member of the Rhode Island Philharmonic Youth Orchestra. Karen earned a bachelor’s degree in music education with a minor in violin performance from the University of Rhode Island and a master’s degree in string pedagogy and violin performance from the Ohio University in Athens, Ohio. Ms. Ginther performed as a violinist in the Huntington Chamber Orchestra in West Virginia, the West Virginia Symphony and the Longview Symphony in Texas. She held positions as an orchestra director in Rhode Island, West Virginia, Texas and New Mexico. Karen joined the RRPS Fine Arts team in 2003 excited to be part of the new elementary orchestra program. She currently is the orchestra director at Eagle Ridge Middle School and continues to work with the thriving fifth grade orchestra program. Ms. Ginther lives in Rio Rancho with her husband and two children. She feels she has come full circle beginning her musical education in a Massachusetts Music Town and now teaching in New Mexico’s greatest Music Town.

karen.ginther@rrps.net

Lincoln Middle School

Mr. Slife teaches band at Lincoln Middle School. Slife belongs to the National Association for Music Education (NAfME) and the New Mexico Music Educators Association (NMMEA). Currently, he serves as the New Mexico state chair of the National Band Association.

Mr. Slife grew up in a small town outside of Cleveland, OH called Avon Lake. Slife earned degrees in music education from The University of Akron (Akron, OH) and Bowling Green State University (Bowling Green, OH). Prior to to New Mexico, Mr. Slife was the band graduate teaching assistant at the University of Akron under the guidance of Dr. Galen S. Karriker and Dr. Andrew D. Feyes. Mr. Slife guest conducted the Akron Symphonic Band, Concert Band, Tuba-Euphonium Ensemble, and assisted with teaching the University Band. Mr. Slife also assisted with the teaching and recruitment of “Ohio’s Pride” marching band. Mr. Slife was the assistant director of Akron’s Blue & Gold Brass, the basketball pep band.

Mr. Slife plays the euphonium. His primary teachers include Dr. Christopher Blaha (Akron), David Saltzman (BGSU), and Tucker Jolly (Akron). Mr. Slife studied conducting with Dr. Galen Karriker (Akron) and Dr. Bruce Moss (BGSU).

francis.slife@rrps.net

With a passion for nurturing musical talents and fostering a lifelong love for music, Miguel Jaramillo is a dedicated and accomplished music educator. With a rich background in both performance and education, he brings a unique blend of expertise to my teaching approach. Guided by the belief that music has the power to inspire and transform lives, he strives to create a dynamic and enriching learning environment for students of all ages and skill levels. Miguel holds a Bachelors in Music Education and Bachelors in Guitar Performance from The University of New Mexico, where he honed his musical skills and gained a comprehensive understanding of pedagogical techniques. His training extends beyond the classroom, encompassing connecting with students, “gamifying” the music classroom, and being a part of the Rio Rancho music community..

Miguel brings several years of teaching experience to his role as a music educator. Having instructed diverse groups of choir and guitar students ranging from beginners to advanced performers, he has had the privilege of witnessing remarkable growth and achievement. Recognizing the significance of community engagement, Miguel is actively involved in NMMEA as the Vice President for Guitar and has served as treasurer for CNMMEA District VI. Whether through organizing workshops, participating in outreach programs, or collaborating with local musicians, he is dedicated to enriching the cultural fabric of New Mexico. Committed to staying at the forefront of music education trends and techniques, Miguel consistently seeks opportunities for professional development. Regularly attending conferences, workshops, and masterclasses, he ensures that his teaching methods remain innovative and effective, keeping his students engaged and motivated.

As a passionate advocate for music education, Miguel is steadfast in his commitment to fostering the growth and development of aspiring musicians. His holistic approach to teaching, bolstered by his performance background and dedication to ongoing learning, equips him to inspire and guide students along their musical journey. He is excited to continue making a positive impact on the lives of my students and the broader musical community.

miguel.jaramillo@rrps.net

I am the daughter of a retired Chicago Public Schools Art Teacher. The Art Institute of Chicago was my favorite playground growing up. I was born and raised in Chicago, yet have lived in Chile, Spain, Japan, England, Taiwan, Korea, China, and the United Arab Emirates. I am married to a retired US Air Force Search and Rescue Helicopter Pilot and United States Air Force Academy Graduate. We have three girls in college and two of them are Cleveland High School Alumna. I have a Bachelor of Arts in the Teaching of Spanish from the University of Illinois at Chicago (1992), and a Master of Science in Curriculum Development From Capella University(2002)and in that same year, I earned my National Board Certification in World Languages Other Than English. What was I thinking?

ART is a passion of mine. It is the only way I have survived this pandemic thus far. I teach art at Lincoln Middle School and look forward to planting the seeds for a lifelong love of art in as many of my students as possible. When I am not teaching art, I am making art. I recently received an honorable mention at the 2021 New Mexico State Fair for a painting in the Hispanic Art Professional Category. Additionally, one of my 7th grade students earned 1st place in the State Fair Student Category. I am super proud of her! I regularly participate in Juried Art Shows and look forward to a retirement of making art and selling Mary Kay to support my out of control addiction to ART SUPPLIES! Currently, art is permanently on exhibition at the Village Print Shop in Corrales.

pamela.elam@rrps.net

Zachary Bush graduated from Colorado State University in 2015 with degrees in music composition, music performance, and music education. He also holds master’s degrees in music composition, bass performance, and a doctorate in music composition from Arizona State University. He is an award-winning composer and an active performer on double bass. He most recently played for the New Mexico Philharmonic as Acting Principal Bass during the 2022-2023 season. He also played principal bass in three Phoenix-based symphonies prior to arriving in Albuquerque.

zachary.bush@rrps.net

Mountain View Middle School

Ms. Alarid teaches Choir and Drama at Mountain View Middle School. In her free time she likes to write, perform, and produce her original music. Ms.Alarid is New Mexico born and raised and attended The University of New Mexico where she graduated with her Bachelors in Music Education with an Emphasis on Voice. Ms. Alarid loves when her students engage in and enjoy the creative process and collaborate. She is really proud of her students who challenge themselves to try something new.

karen.alarid@rrps.net

My name is Richard Guerrero and I am an educator committed to collaborative learning that engages students, staff, families and the community.

I received a Bachelor of Music Education (B.M.E.) from New Mexico State University and I am currently in my tenth year of teaching.

I am originally from Vado, a small town in southern New Mexico, but have made my way up north to your beautiful City of Rio Rancho along with my wonderful wife and two children (and we could not be happier!).

I enjoy performing with local artists whenever possible, cooking, reading and spending as much time as possible with my family.

richard.guerrero@rrps.net

Brad Dubbs has taught for 25 years at both the middle and high school levels. For the past 10 years, he was the Director of Bands at Eldorado High School in Albuquerque, where he taught the Wind Ensemble, Golden Eagle Marching Band, three jazz bands (Screamin’ Eagles, Golden Image, and Swing Wings), and co-taught the Concert Band. Prior to arriving at Eldorado, he served as Director of Bands at Manzano High School, Jackson Middle School, Keller Middle School (Las Vegas, NV), and was the Associate Director of Bands at Rio Rancho High School.

His bands have consistently earned superior ratings at concert, jazz, and marching band festivals in the area and throughout the country. Mr. Dubbs’ jazz bands have been selected as the All-State Honor Jazz Band in 2004, 2015, 2018, and 2023. His jazz band was also named the Outstanding Band at the UNM Jazz Festival in 2002. During his time at Rio Rancho High School, the marching band was awarded the Zia Grand Champion in 2004 and 2005. In the spring of 2018, the Eldorado Marching Band was featured in the Main Street Parade at Disneyland. In 2004, his band hosted legendary trumpeter, Maynard Ferguson. In 2005, that same group hosted the World Famous Count Basie Orchestra. His bands have also featured world-renowned guest artists such as Bobby Shew, Wayne Bergeron, Butch Miles, and Mike Williams. His jazz bands have commissioned pieces from Bob Washut and Dr. Paul Coleman.

Mr. Dubbs is an active clinician and adjudicator throughout New Mexico at both the middle and high school levels. He has worked with many middle school bands in New Mexico at music camps and retreats. He has adjudicated bands in Las Cruces, Rio Rancho, Los Alamos, Farmington, Albuquerque, Portales, and Los Lunas. He was a featured clinician at the Western Kentucky Honor Band Clinic and the Eastern New Mexico Jazz Festival. In the spring of 2022, Mr. Dubbs served as a guest conductor with the UNM Symphonic Band.

As a performer, he has played lead and jazz trumpet with the Albuquerque Jazz Orchestra for the past 30 years, performs regularly with the R and B/Soul Band Chill House, various salsa groups in the Albuquerque area, and has also performed with the New Mexico Symphony Orchestra. Mr. Dubbs has performed with the national tour pit orchestras for Chicago and Carol King the Musical. He has also backed up such guests as Jeff Coffin, Randy Brecker, Eddie Daniels, Dick Oatts, Bobby Shew, Wayne Bergeron, The Four Tops, The O Jay’s, and Mary Wilson and the Supremes, to name a few.

Mr. Dubbs Holds a Bachelors Degree in Music Educations from the University of New Mexico. He is married to his wife, Kim, and has two kids, Andrew and Kate. They also have two boxers, Zoey and Murphy.

brad.dubbs@rrps.net

Cherokee Randolph grew up in New Mexico, playing viola with the Albuquerque Youth Symphony and earning a Bachelor’s of Music degree from the University of New Mexico. After five years in Boston studying with Michael Zaretsky, she moved to Mexico City to play viola with La Filarmónica de la Ciudad de México for several years. Cherokee currently teaches orchestra at Mountain View Middle and Cleveland High Schools in Rio Rancho, NM, and plays in the viola section of the Santa Fe Symphony. She recently earned a Master’s of Music Education from Adams State University.

cherokee.randolph@rrps.net

Natalie Hardcastle is an art educator at Mountain View Middle School. She received her BFA in Studio Art with an emphasis in Printmaking from Sonoma State University in 2003. Her drawings and prints have been shown nationally. Natalie has been teaching in the classroom setting since 2017 and is passionate about teaching students how to think critically and creatively. She has called California, New York, and New Mexico home over the years. She is married with two boys and two dogs. When she’s not in the studio, she loves to spend her time watching her boys play baseball or exploring the beautiful state of New Mexico.

natalie.hardcastle@rrps.net

Rio Rancho Middle School

Born in Grand Forks, ND and later growing up in Boise, ID Mrs. Mercogliano served 4 years in the United States Army in what was then West Germany and then in the Republic of Panama. Upon returning to the United States she returned to Idaho and graduated from Idaho State University in December of 2002 with a Bachelor of Music Education. She is certified in the State of New Mexico with an endorsement in Performing Arts. Mrs. Mercogliano has previously served as a K-8 general music instructor, middle school choir director (Pocatello, ID) and has been at Rio Rancho Middle School as the Choir Director and is presently the Drama Instructor.

Mrs. Mercogliano has been married to her husband Frank for nearly 30 years. They have three adult daughters, a grandson and a granddaughter arriving in ‘24. She and her husband are enjoying hiking in the area with their 3 dogs. She believes that if you shoot for the moon you just might catch a star flying by.

melissa.mercogliano@rrps.net

Donna Schmidt, a native of Beltsville, Maryland, received her Bachelor of Music Education degree from James Madison University in 1991 and her Master of Music degree from the University of New Mexico in 1995. Before joining the music staff in Rio Rancho, she taught middle school band in Arlington, Virginia and Albuquerque, New Mexico for 28 years.

Ms. Schmidt frequently serves as a clinician and adjudicator throughout New Mexico and has presented a clinic at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Ms. Schmidt was chosen as New Mexico’s representative for the School Band and Orchestra magazine’s "50 Directors Who Make a Difference." In 2016, Ms. Schmidt was named New Mexico Educators Association Music Educator of the Year. In 2018, Ms. Schmidt was selected as a recipient of the Golden Apple Award. Most recently, Mrs. Schmidt received the NMMEA Rollie Heltman Service Award.

When she is not teaching music, Ms. Schmidt enjoys hiking, camping, and spending time with her husband and two children.

donna.schmidt@rrps.net

brad.dubbs@rrps.net

stephenie.wilkerson@rrps.net

Brennan Wright was born and raised in Las Cruces, New Mexico. He has been playing cello since he was 11 and is a graduate of Las Cruces High School. An alum of the University of New Mexico’s Music Education program, Mr. Wright played in the UNM Symphony Orchestra as well as other groups. He served as NAfME (National Association for Music Education) Chapter President. He has led and run clinics in multiple public schools throughout the state. Mr. Wright believes that every person deserves a music education and, more importantly, has equal opportunities to do so. Mr. Wright graduated in May 2022 and has a degree in Music Education from the University of New Mexico. He is currently the Orchestra Director at Rio Rancho Middle School and is a RRPS Elementary Orchestra specialist.

brennan.wright@rrps.net

Hello Rio Rancho! My name is Lori Lermon and I am the 7 th Grade Visual Arts Teacher here at Rio Rancho Middle School. I am coming to you from Texas where I taught Visual Arts for the last 16 years. I graduated college from West Texas A&M University and hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Art and Education. My goal is to encourage and inspire young minds through learning, and create a safe space where they can all feel accepted and valued. I believe art is a crucial element in education, to develop bright minds, and the Arts foster creative thinking and individuality. Albert Einstein once said, “Imagination is everything, it is the preview to life’s coming attractions.” In today’s job industry it is so important to learn the skills and techniques that help our children not only thrive but flourish as they grow and become successful adults. My goal is to bring each of their lights out and let them shine. When I am not inspiring young minds, I like to spend my time with my family. I have been married for the last 15 years and I am a mom to three girls who I adore. I love watching my girls do their thing in sports. We like skiing, anything water, camping, riding our Razor! I also love working on my own art and interior decorating.

lori.lermon @rrps.net

RRPS High Schools

V. Sue Cleveland High School

Kyle began his study of dance in California as a senior in High School and yoga as a freshman in college and has now been teaching dance and yoga, both the physical and philosophical aspects of yoga, for more than 25 years. His formal training includes a 200 hour teacher certification in the Vinyasa style through White Lotus Yoga. He also holds a Masters Degree in Eastern Classics from St. Johns College, and attended UC Berkeley in a Ph. D. program in comparative Hindu/Buddhist studies. He has taught yoga and Eastern Religions for the University of New Mexico and TVI/CNMCC. He started the yoga/Pilates program for Rio Rancho High School, and then the dance, yoga, and Pilates programs at Cleveland High School, also in Rio Rancho. He currently teaches over 35 dance, yoga, and Pilates classes a week at Cleveland High School, Defined Fitness, and at Festival Ballet Albuquerque. He also guest teaches for various resorts in the Caribbean, and in Alaska. As a former dancer with the New Mexico Ballet Company and current dancer with Festival Ballet Albuquerque as well as a yoga practitioner, Kyle is able to address the needs of dancers, athletes, and any others needing to work on developing core strength, balance, and flexibility.

kyle.linzer@rrps.net

Daniel Holmes is the Director of Bands at V. Sue Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho, New Mexico. Mr. Holmes is in his fifth year at CHS and his 12th year of teaching. He directs the CHS Storm Regiment, Wind Symphony, Electric Blue Jazz Band and co-directs the Concert Band. An Albuquerque native and a New Mexico State University graduate, Mr. Holmes previously held teaching positions in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and El Paso, Texas.

Mr. Holmes's teaching philosophy is to inspire students to realize their potential, achieve the highest music education and performance standards, promote music's vital role in students' social-emotional lives, and provide personal growth and leadership opportunities.

Outside of work, Mr. Holmes is an active freelance trumpet player in the Albuquerque metro area. In addition, he loves coffee, South Padre Island, Marvel movies, and the Denver Broncos. He and his loving wife Daniella, a fellow RRPS Music Educator, have three beautiful kids and are proud to call Rio Rancho their home.

daniel.holmes@rrps.net

Joshua Dumais is currently in his 6th year of teaching and second year as associate director at V. Sue Cleveland High School. Prior to teaching at Cleveland, Mr. Dumais taught at Mountain View Middle School in Rio Rancho, NM. Mr. Dumais received his bachelor’s degree in music education from the University of New Mexico. Mr. Dumais believes music to be an essential part of a well rounded education and he works hard to constantly bring new students into his programs. His professional affiliations include the New Mexico Music Educators Association and the National Association for Music Education. Mr. Dumais loves spending his free time hiking with his wife and dog, fishing, and working on cars.

joshua.dumais@rrps.net

Jadira Flamm grew up in the El Paso, TX area and is a graduate of Santa Teresa High School. She holds a Bachelor of Music Education with an emphasis in voice from New Mexico State University and her Master of Music Education from the University of New Mexico. This will be her 17th year teaching in the Rio Rancho Public Schools. She is the Director of Choral Activities and Fine Arts Instructional Leader at V. Sue Cleveland High School in Rio Rancho, NM. She holds a NM Level Three-A Instructional Leader/Teaching License and a Level 3 Kodaly certification.

Jadira currently resides in Albuquerque, NM with her loving and supportive husband Russell. She is blessed to share life with her sweet daughter Grace and adventurous son RJ. She also enjoys furry hugs from her dog Ranger. Jadira and her family love the outdoors. She breathes, drinks and eats music. In her spare time, she plays piano and sings at Sagebrush Church.

As a music educator, Ms. Flamm’s goal is to inspire students not only to love music, but to love the process of making music. She believes that music should be accessible and inclusive to ALL students. Students are unique. Therefore, she strives to provide a safe place where their unique qualities can flourish. The instruction in her classroom provides academic and emotional support. Music education is important to Ms. Flamm because it opens the door to endless creativity and future musical experiences. She believes that music changes lives and it provides an unexplainable bond in humans. She is humbled to be a part of a community that embraces music education and honored to be a part of the one and only Flammily in town.

jadira.flamm@rrps.net

cherokee.randolph@rrps.net

Kir Kipness’s love of performing arts goes back to her grandfather, Joseph Kipness, who was a Broadway producer and won a Tony Award for the musical, Applause in 1970. She grew up in the world of theater, performing and training since age five. Kir has an extensive performing and directing résumé in musicals and plays throughout ABQ and her hometown of Santa Fe. However, her joy of performing is only rivaled by her love of teaching. She has been teaching and directing performing arts since 2009 and holds a BA in Theatre Education from UNM. She is incredibly passionate about the power theater has to build community, instill confidence, and make the art of storytelling come alive. In her spare time, Kir loves to sing in her band with her husband and likes to hike with her two large fluffy dogs. She is fortunate to continue her lifelong love of theater with the inspiring and talented students here at Cleveland.

kir.kipness@rrps.net

Jackie Maese was born and raised in Las Cruces, NM. She is a Las Cruces High School alum. Her alma mater is the University of New Mexico, where she received both a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and a Masters of Art Education degree. Jackie teaches to make the world a better place. She believes that students who are holistically aware, open-minded, and expressive, become essential members of the community. Therefore teaching Visual Art to students is a great contribution to society. Before committing to Visual Art, Jackie’s earlier Fine Arts experiences include singing in the school choir, several years of cello study and performance, and taking Flamenco dance classes at UNM. In her spare time, Jackie enjoys spending quality time with her senior dachshund, traveling to far away places, and has recently taken an interest in tennis.

jackie.maese@rrps.net

Liz Olive is originally from Denver, Colorado, but has lived in Albuquerque, New Mexico for all of her adult life. She holds a Bachelors of Fine Art in Studio Art, and also a Masters of Art in Art Education, both acquired at the University of New Mexico in 2012 and 2015 respectively. Liz’s art has been featured in several shows around the Albuquerque area since 2006. She became a teacher because of a passion for art and for helping people create. She firmly believes that education is best done through experimentation, inquiry, and play. In her spare time, she enjoys creating art, reading books and graphic novels, and spending quality time with her three cats.

elizabeth.olive@rrps.net

I have been an art teacher for many years and in multiple states and countries.

My education is a BFA in painting and drawing and an MA in art education.

I am from New Mexico but my first five years teaching art were in Dearborn, Michigan. I then taught twelve years at Rio Rancho Elementary, three years at Rio Rancho High School, two years overseas at Gems American Academy Abu Dhabi and now I am teaching at V. Sue Cleveland High School.

I have three kids that are all grown and living on their own. I am a practicing artist and have shown in museums and galleries in the U.S. and Italy.

My partner, Kristina is an Ethnomusicology (music/anthropology) professor at UNM and does research all over the world but mostly in the Italian island of Sardinia.

john.parish@rrps.net

Rio Rancho High School

Mr. Casarez, better known as “Mr. C”, is currently in his 15th year at Rio Rancho High School and in his 17th year of teaching. Mr. C was also the band director at Eagle Ridge MS and Rio Rancho Mid-High during his time as Associate Director at RRHS. Before coming to RRHS, Mr. C taught at LBJ MS in Albuquerque as well as Cibola HS.

Mr. C received his Masters of Music degree in 2004 from The University of New Mexico. While at UNM he was principal trumpet in both the Wind Symphony and Symphony Orchestra.

Before moving to New Mexico, Mr. C was the Assistant Director at Pflugerville HS in Austin, TX.

Mr. C graduated from Texas State University in San Marcos, TX with a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education in 2000.

As a trumpet player, Mr. C has performed with the Austin Lyric Opera, Austin Symphony Brass Quintet, and the Phantom Regiment Drum and Bugle Corps from Rockford, Illinois. Mr. Casarez has performed across the United States as well as in Sweden and Ireland.

Mr. C lives in Rio Rancho with his wife Vanessa and two boys Gus and Otis.

He is an avid collector of Star Wars t-shirts, vinyl records, and anything having to do with Gustav Mahler who he considers to be the greatest composer to ever live.

matthew.casarez@rrps.net

Alexander Austell received his bachelor of music education degree from the University of New Mexico in 2016. Right out of college, Mr. Austell was hired as the Director of Bands at Rio Rancho Middle School, and was there for 5 years before becoming the full-time Associate Director of Bands at Rio Rancho High School. Additionally, Mr. Austell is one of the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Co-Conductors for AYS Junior Orchestra.

Mr. Austell is an accomplished trumpet player and has experience playing with the New Mexico Philharmonic and competing in the National Trumpet Competition during his college years. As a teacher, Mr. Austell was asked to present a brass methods clinic at the New Mexico Music Educators Association All-State Conference in 2019, and accepted an invitation to present a clinic at the conference in 2022. He also has experience as a guest clinician and trumpet clinician for different band programs across the state.

Mr. Austell’s most important goal is to inspire his students to be the best version of themselves through music. He is happily married to his wife Mary Allison Austell, who happens to be the orchestra director at the same school. Mr. Austell is an avid Star Wars fan, plays video games in his spare time, and loves cats!

alexander.austell@rrps.net

zachary.bush@rrps.net

Gael Natal, originally from Connecticut, attended college at Bates College in Lewiston, ME and The College of Santa Fe in NM. She completed her degrees at UNM and began work in Santa Fe. She taught at Capital High School in Santa Fe for seven years before beginning her Rio Rancho High School Career in 2004. After producing over a hundred shows from one acts plays to enormous full-length musicals, she believes that the key to great theatre is creating a positive environment of inclusiveness while focusing on creating quality work. Rio Rancho High School is currently the most highly decorated theater program in New Mexico. The program has placed 1st in the NMAA One Act Play Competition five times since 2016. They have also placed five times in seven year in the Enchantment Awards, the New Mexico high school musical theater competition. Students have had opportunities to see plays from New York to Oregon and have participated in workshops and festivals each year to grow as performers. Rio Rancho High School Theater graduates work from Hollywood to New York in the acting and film industries. When she is not working in the theatre, she spends time with her numerous pets.

gael.natal@rrps.net

Diane Lea was born and grew up in Chicago where she studied art in high school and college. She earned her BFA in Graphic Design at the University of Illinois in 1993, and moved to Albuquerque in 1997 to work on her Masters of Education in Art Education at UNM (1999). Her philosophy of teaching and learning is the same as her philosophy of life: pursue what you love, learn from your mistakes, and always keep your mind and heart open to new experiences. In her spare time, she enjoys travelling, drinking good coffee, rpg gaming, and shooting photos on the oldest and oddest cameras she can get her hands on.

diane.lea@rrps.net

Lori Turner is originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan. She earned her BFA in Illustration from Grand Valley State University in 2001. She moved to New Mexico in 2013 and pursued a Masters of Art in Art Education degree from the University of New Mexico. Upon graduation in 2016, Lori began teaching at the high school level and has since taught Photograph I-IV, Painting & Drawing I-III, and Intro to Visual Art. In her free time Lori enjoys traveling, spending time with her husband and two children, and creating her own digital and encaustic art.

lori.turner@rrps.net