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Volume 106 / Issue 1 / Summer/Fall 2015-16

A WARM WELCOME TO ROSEMARY J. GALLEGOS NMSDâ€™S NINTH SUPERINTENDENT!

1060 CERRILLOS ROAD, SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO 87505

www.nmsd.k12.nm.us

NEW MEXICO'S FIRST PUBLIC SCHOOL

THE NEW MEXICO PROGRESS since 1909 USPS #381-500 / ISSN #0896-6478 Vol. 106 / Issue 1 / Summer/Fall 2015-16

Published twice during the school year at the New Mexico School for the Deaf, 1060 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, New Mexico 87505. Distributed to parents of students presently enrolled at NMSD and staff. Annual subscriptions are available. If interested, contact Keri-Lynn.McBride@nmsd.k12.nm.us or 505.476.6399 (V/TTY). POSTMASTER: Send address change to THE NEW MEXICO PROGRESS, 1060 Cerrillos Road, Santa Fe, NM 87505. Staff: Editor/Keri-Lynn McBride; Associate Editors/Bay Anapol & Kathy Glyer; Mailing/Distribution/Hope Bakker. Designed by Quario Design.

CONSTRUCTION

Vision

Beliefs

Children and students in New Mexico who are deaf/hard of hearing will become lifelong learners and contributing, well-rounded successful individuals in an increasingly global society.

In an environment of respect, trust, and safety, we believe in…

Mission The mission of the New Mexico School for the Deaf (NMSD), New Mexico’s first public school, is to provide for the unique needs of children and students who are deaf/hard of hearing, their families, and professional partners by providing a comprehensive array of school and statewide programs. As a school, NMSD provides an American Sign Language and English bilingual learning environment that includes direct, ongoing access to language and communication in and out of the classroom with a wide range of peers and adults. The students are interactive learners who receive dynamic high quality standardsbased instruction in a variety of curricular and extra-curricular activities. As a statewide service agency, NMSD collaborates with families, school districts, agencies and communities throughout the state to meet the critical language, communication, and learning needs of children and students in New Mexico who are deaf/hard of hearing, birth through high school.

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viewing people who are deaf/hard of hearing from a cultural and linguistic perspective

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having high expectations that positively affect self-esteem, identity and whole person development

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providing early, ongoing, and fluid access to communication through natural language models

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developing proficiency in American Sign Language and English which is critical for fluent communication, literacy and academic achievement

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supporting the development of auditory skills and spoken language as appropriate to the strengths and needs of the individual child/student

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providing high quality early intervention and involvement services designed to help families give their children the earliest possible on-going opportunities for language, learning and meaningful relationships

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fostering strong partnerships with families through learning and social opportunities

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identifying each student’s unique strengths and using them as the foundation for learning and development

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ensuring the child/student is a consistent and active participant in planned and incidental learning experiences in and out of the classroom

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embracing ethnic, linguistic, and cultural diversity

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developing competence in the use of advanced technology

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having high quality and committed staff who possess and maintain expertise in their respective area

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supporting all students in the pursuit of their personal and professional aspirations

The front entrance to the Health Center is being preserved and is being incorporated into the plans.

The buildings are down and the crews have been back filling the space in preparations for the next steps in the project.

A view looking down towards where the Health Center and Old Laundry Building used to be.

New pipes for heat being installed leading up the front entrance of Cartwright Hall.

February 2013 Rendering of the new space which will include a new entrance to the James A. Little Theater, a playing field for our younger students, aquaponic greenhouses, a pavilion and more!

VOLUME 106 ISSUE 1 SUMMER/FALL 2015- 2016

FEATURE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

3 WELCOME SUPERINTENDENT ROSEMARY J. GALLEGOS

2 3 10 12 16 22 23 24 28 31 32

Superintendentâ€™s Update Feature Early Intervention & Involvement Early Childhood Education - Preschools Main Campus

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SUPERINTENDENT’S UPDATE

DEAR NMSD COMMUNITY & FRIENDS It is such an honor to have been selected as NMSD’s 9th Superintendent. This edition will help you get to know me as I join you in realizing our vision of language, communication, and high expectations for our deaf and hard of hearing children and students in New Mexico. I come to you by way of Taos, New Mexico where I was born and raised, New Mexico State University in Las Cruces where I studied elementary and special education, the University of Arizona in Tucson for a degree in deaf education, and then back to Santa Fe from 1984 – 2011 to work at NMSD as an early interventionist, teacher, instructional supervisor, director, and assistant superintendent. During my “break,” I worked again with families as an early interventionist. I am now back in school at the University of New Mexico aiming for a doctoral degree in education leadership. Whew! A long journey that has deepened my New Mexican roots, sealed my commitment to the mission of NMSD, and allowed me to feel prepared to take the reins as Superintendent. Our school program at NMSD is an educational environment like no other. Here, students can interact directly with each other, with their teachers, principals, and all support staff. NMSD has a critical mass of staff and faculty that are either native or fluent users of ASL and are deaf or hard of hearing themselves. We often talk about the importance of “fluid” communication for deaf and hard of hearing children, but really what does that mean? As you visit NMSD’s many activities and events in this Progress magazine - such as classroom happenings, field trips, Homecoming weekend, Youth Summit, the 8 state (GPSD) volleyball tournament, Feast for the Eyes, and much more - you will see that fluid communication means smooth, back and forth conversations about simple to very complex concepts. Fluid communication means students have the opportunity to really learn about themselves and their world through unimpeded interactions. They can ask questions and develop their thinking with many different adults and peers. That’s how all humans learn, and what students who are deaf and hard of hearing deserve. Make sure to notice pictures and stories of the little ones. We all know the importance of an early start to learning. Did you know that NMSD’s statewide early intervention and involvement program provides home visitation for 286 babies, toddlers and young children who are deaf or hard of hearing all over New Mexico? Our commitment is to start language learning at birth, and as they grow, to make sure all deaf and hard of hearing children have a solid education with high expectations and the opportunity to excel. I would like to ask your help in spreading the word about our statewide home visiting program for babies and toddlers, our resources to families and any school district in the state, our school program in Santa Fe, and our preschools in Albuquerque, Farmington and Las Cruces. Together we can make a difference! Sincerely,

Rosemary J. Gallegos

NEW STUDENTS & NEW STAFF

WELCOME TO NMSD! NEW STUDENTS ALBUQUERQUE PRESCHOOL

From left: Peyton Montoya, Brody Keller, Isac Aguilar Jr., Jesse Jimenez and Abel Trujillo.

LAS CRUCES PRESCHOOL

Elizabeth Aragon

Arlene Galindo

SANTA FE CAMPUS

NEW STAFF

Front row from left: Chanelle Hobbs, Neveah Garcia, Arthur White, Lacey Gilpin, Zelena De La Pena, Neeva Goff. Back row from left: Esteban Ruiz, Erickson Sierra, Jeremy Dan, Ben Hernandez and Jocelyn “Jovi” Melendez. Not pictured: Joshua Armendariz and Aniesa Gomez.

Gabriel Gonzales

From left: Superintendent, Rosemary Gallegos and Liliana Macias.

Seated from left: Norah Matthews, Kate Lee, Taiya Getman, Nixo Lanning, Shira Grabelsy, Katelyn Jurney, Hillary Frankowiak and Nora Torres. Standing from left: Dana Fields, Elias Montoya Jr., Monique Balcarcel, Maria Klein, Sofia Lindevall, Rick Garcia, Jaime Ornelas, Sheng Li, Karen Maestas, Kevin Rittenhouse, Maggie Harris, Daniel Heinze, Jan Garcia, Ami Montoya, Christin Hume, Dominic Harrison and Lisa Craig.

From left: Scott Vollmar, Hugo Gonzalez, Krystle Curley, Tim Curley, Jeremy Wagoner.

FEATURE

WELCOME SUPERINTENDENT ROSEMARY J. GALLEGOS Last spring, after an extensive search process, hosting community forums, individually interviewing three finalists and deliberating in an executive session, the New Mexico School for the Deaf Board of Regents announced the selection of Ms. Rosemary Jeantete Gallegos as the ninth superintendent. Ms. Gallegos, originally from Taos, New Mexico is the first female and the second Hispanic superintendent in the history of the school. For 27 years Superintendent Gallegos served NMSD in a variety of capacities including positions as an early interventionist, teacher, Director of Early Intervention and Involvement, Director of Statewide Outreach and Assistant Superintendent. Ms. Gallegos retired in 2011 and continued to serve as a consultant to the school. She is currently a Doctoral Candidate in Educational Leadership at University of New Mexico, has a Master of Education in Deaf and Hard of Hearing from University of Arizona, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Education from New Mexico State University. Dr. Ronald J. Stern, NMSD’s former superintendent, reflected on the selection of Ms. Gallegos as NMSD’s next superintendent - “Having had the privilege to know and work closely with Ms. Gallegos over the years at NMSD, I very well know she is highly qualified and primed to lead NMSD and its critical statewide responsibilities in the years ahead. Her outstanding intelligence, keen understanding and love for NMSD, its community and the entire state of New Mexico will be crucial as NMSD continues to expand its unique viability on behalf of the education of today and tomorrow’s deaf/hard of hearing students.” Superintendent Gallegos is “honored that the Board of Regents entrusted me with this gem for New Mexico’s deaf and hard of hearing children” and is deeply committed to “continue to develop NMSD’s programs and partnerships so that every child and youth in New Mexico who is deaf or hard of hearing has the opportunity to access its many resources and know that it is possible to dream big for his/her future.” The NMSD Community welcomes Superintendent Gallegos and looks forward to thriving under her leadership.

Top: Dr. Stern congratulating Superintendent Gallegos last May. 2nd from top: Superintendent Gallegos welcoming staff to the 20152016 school year during orientation week last August. 3rd from top: Superintendent Gallegos at our elementary open house. Bottom: Superintendent crowning Joseph Montano at this year’s Homecoming game.

WELCOME TO NMSD!

FEATURE

GETTING TO KNOW YOU, GETTING TO KNOW ALL ABOUT YOU

OLIVIA HALEY

Our sixth graders had the great pleasure of interviewing our new Superintendent. They took this opportunity seriously and worked very hard at crafting their questions. Cindy Timlen, their writing teacher, set up a video camera and captured the interview so students could review the tape and transcribe Superintendent Gallegos’s answers into print. They did an outstanding job and I hope you too will enjoy getting to know Superintendent Gallegos better!

Olivia Haley: How many years have you worked at NMSD? Rosemary Gallegos: I’ve worked at NMSD full-time for 27 years and part-time for 2 more years after I retired - so altogether 29 years! This is my 30th year! Olivia Haley: What other jobs did you have before you worked at NMSD? Rosemary Gallegos: Before I worked at NMSD I taught music. I gave flute lessons in college and I also worked in a museum in Taos during the summers. I would tell people about the history of Taos. My first teaching job was in southern New Mexico at a school close to Las Cruces. After college I began working at NMSD. Olivia Haley: What is your vision for NMSD? Rosemary Gallegos: I always tell people it is not my vision. The vision for NMSD belongs to all of us - students, staff, and everyone who works at NMSD. Our vision is to be the best school in New Mexico, to be good to each other while providing the best education for all our students, and to see students continue to learn and succeed when they graduate. That’s my vision, but it is a shared vision. Together we can do it! Olivia Haley: Do you have children? Rosemary Gallegos: I do! I am a proud mom. I have two children. My daughter Rebekah is the oldest and is 28. She’s a lawyer and works in Albuquerque. My son Stephen graduated with a degree in Biology. He wants to be a Physical Therapist and his passion is rock climbing. He works at the Santa Fe climbing gym and he loves bouldering. He is an expert. Olivia Haley: What is your favorite animal? Rosemary Gallegos: Dogs! I have a dog I like a lot. I also like nature and think we need to be careful with our environment so animals can live well. That’s important! Olivia Haley: Do you like housework? Rosemary Gallegos: (Smiling) I don’t mind it. I like cleaning my house – it feels good and I feel accomplished when I’m done. It is relaxing to clean and think about other things. It’s good exercise too. Olivia Haley: What is your hobby? Rosemary Gallegos: My hobby is playing the flute. I’m still in a group and I rehearse with my ensemble. I also like doing things around my house. I like hiking too and my husband and I hiked all the way up to Tesuque Peak!

KIERAN ERCOLINO

FEATURE

Kieran Ercolino: What is your goal for NMSD? Rosemary Gallegos: I have many goals and they are all related to students. That’s why we are here. Not just the students here on the Santa Fe campus but also the babies and students in public school. We do home visits for babies and also visit schools all across the state of NM. My goal is that all children should have access to language as early as possible. It’s important that babies start picking up language early and become familiar with deaf culture. I want all students to succeed. Kieran Ercolino: Do you like NMSD’s ideas for education? Rosemary Gallegos: I think that’s a great question. First, all of us must be good citizens for our country and our community. How do we do that? We improve our understanding of each other. We have empathy for others. This is happening at NMSD already because you understand that word. It is important that we put ourselves in another person’s shoes. Learning about ourselves and each other, and accepting diversity, helps us become good citizens. Kieran Ercolino: What do you want students to learn? Rosemary Gallegos: I want students to learn to be good students. Good students know how to read and write but they also know math, history, social studies, and science. They know how to problem solve and think in abstract ways - not just in black and white. They know how to really think deep. I want students to graduate and be confident and successful, consider a variety of careers, be proud of themselves, have good selfesteem, and make their own decisions about their life. Kieran Ercolino: What do you think about NMSD’s safety? Rosemary Gallegos: Safety is very important. If it is not safe at school students can’t learn. One of our first priorities is to make sure we all have a safe environment. We can’t sit back and take our time with this. Is it my responsibility to make sure NMSD is safe? No, it is all of our responsibility. Every day we depend on each other to make sure we are safe. Kieran Ercolino: What is your favorite TV show? Rosemary Gallegos: That’s funny because that is the same question one of the alumni asked me. This TV show is from a long time ago. You may not know this show. It was a funny show about a group of people marooned on an island - Gilligan’s Island. The group was made up of all different kinds of people with different values, thinking and upbringing. There was one guy who was always making mistakes and he was really funny. Kieran Ercolino: What is your favorite NFL team? Rosemary Gallegos: That’s a hard question because I don’t watch sports. I know how enthusiastic you all are about sports. I thought I could make something up, but then I wouldn’t be honest. So I decided that it would be good for you to understand diversity too. I am okay with watching football but I’m not really fascinated by it. It’s not my thing but I like to see enthusiasm when others like it. Kieran Ercolino: What is your favorite ice-cream flavor? Rosemary Gallegos: Chocolate - anything with chocolate! 6

DUSTIN HAND

FEATURE

Dustin Hand: How did you feel about becoming NMSD’s superintendent? Rosemary Gallegos: It is an honor to be the superintendent of NMSD. You know my story and that I’ve worked at NMSD for 27 years. I retired and went back to college. We never stop learning. While in college I had time to think. I knew that I wanted to continue working for NMSD so I came back. Dustin Hand: When you were young, did you want to become superintendent? Rosemary Gallegos: Did I ever look forward to becoming superintendent? Never. I didn’t think about it. I thought about working hard for NMSD as a teacher and later I worked hard as an administrator. My goal is always to work hard for NMSD. Honestly, I didn’t think I would become superintendent. Becoming superintendent happened because of the opportunity. I was ready for it. Dustin Hand: What is your dream for NMSD? Rosemary Gallegos: My dream is that we will always be here for children and families. That’s my dream - to be here forever for New Mexico. Dustin Hand: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go? Rosemary Gallegos: I would like to go to Spain. I’ve never gone before and my ancestors are from Spain so I would like to travel there. Dustin Hand: What was your favorite subject in school? Rosemary Gallegos: I liked reading and writing the most in school. I also liked music. Dustin Hand: What is your favorite quote? Rosemary Gallegos: My favorite quote is about how our culture helps us grow by Oliver Sacks. “What is distinctly human in us - our capacity for language, for thought, for communication, and culture – do not develop automatically in us, are not just biological functions, but are, equally, social and historical in origin; that they are a gift- the most wonderful of gifts - from one generation to another. We see that Culture is as crucial as Nature.” -Oliver Sacks, 1989 Dustin Hand: What is your favorite toy? Rosemary Gallegos: My bike! Growing up in Taos I could ride my bike anywhere. I would stay outside and ride my bike until it was dark. My mom and dad had to call for me to come home.

EVELYN JOHNSON

FEATURE

Evelyn Johnson: Do you enjoy being superintendent? Rosemary Gallegos: Actually, I’ve only been superintendent for a short time now. I do enjoy being superintendent. It is a lot of responsibility and I enjoy it. I like the diversity! So many different things to pay attention to! Evelyn Johnson: What is your favorite thing to do at NMSD? Rosemary Gallegos: My favorite thing to do is visit classes and watch students learn. My other favorite thing is interacting with parents. I like that. Parents are important to how students learn. Evelyn Johnson: Do you want to stay at NMSD? Rosemary Gallegos: I’ve been here for 30 years so I think that speaks for itself. I’m staying for a while. I’m not sure how long I will stay here as superintendent, but I think for a maximum of 7-10 years. I think it is good for a school to change superintendents and leadership. Evelyn Johnson: What is your favorite color? Rosemary Gallegos: My favorite color is blue. I like all different hues of blue. Evelyn Johnson: What was your first car? Rosemary Gallegos: My first car was a green Ford Fairlane. My mom and dad gave it to me. Evelyn Johnson: What is your favorite sport? Rosemary Gallegos: I like gymnastics. Evelyn Johnson: Do you like to read every day? Rosemary Gallegos: I like to read a lot and I read a variety of things. Some novels, some history books, and a lot about education. I read newspapers and The New York Times to keep me up to date with what’s happening in the world and to know what other people think. I like to read editorials.

BRUCE BREWER JR.

FEATURE

Bruce Brewer Jr.: Why did you want to become superintendent? Rosemary Gallegos: I think I was ready. I checked with people that I’ve worked with for a long time and got their feedback before I made a decision. I thought hard about it. I worked with Dr. Stern a long time as his assistant superintendent. He mentored me. I had another mentor too, another superintendent. I thought - I am ready to take this responsibility on as I’m passionate about New Mexico and NMSD needs to be here for our state. Bruce Brewer Jr.: What is your vision for staff at NMSD? Rosemary Gallegos: My vision for staff is for them to understand that they are both leaders and followers we all are. All NMSD staff – dining hall, maintenance, housekeeping, and so on. Every job is important as it serves our students. An example would be our recent Homecoming, Alumni Reunion and GPSD weekend. It was a really busy weekend and it took all of our staff to make it happen. Every staff member is important. We are all part of the NMSD team. Bruce Brewer Jr.: What is your goal for NMSD’s athletes this year? Rosemary Gallegos: I think we have a strong athletic program. I would like to see how we can develop athletic skills and knowledge in our younger athletes so that when they arrive in high school they already know how to play various sports. That is one thing that I would like as a goal for our athletes. Bruce Brewer Jr.: Who is your favorite superhero? Rosemary Gallegos: I like Captain America. I’m not sure why. Maybe because I liked the movie. He’s a nice guy and I like him. Bruce Brewer Jr.: What is your favorite book? Rosemary Gallegos: My all-time favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I have another favorite book, Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck. Those are my two favorite books. Bruce Brewer Jr.: What is your favorite food? Rosemary Gallegos: Chocolate cake. Bruce Brewer Jr.: When it is stormy with thunder and rain outside, do you think it’s cool or scary? Rosemary Gallegos: Cool - if I’m inside. If I’m outside - it is a little different. If I’m camping it’s nice to be inside a tent when it’s raining outside. That’s cool!

EARLY INTERVENTION & INVOLVEMENT

CHANGING THE WORLD FOR 30 YEARS BY JOANNE CORWIN NMSD’s hosting of the Western Regional Early Intervention Conference (WREIC) was a resounding success! The conference is designed to support professionals working with children birth to 5 years who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind, visually impaired, or deaf-blind, as well as their families. The WREIC has been in place for over 30 years, making it one of the longest ongoing early intervention conferences in the nation, and it is hosted every 2-3 years by several western states in rotation. This year, NMSD hosted the conference in collaboration with the New Mexico School for the Blind and Visually Impaired and the Center for Development and Disability’s Project for New Mexico Children and Youth Who Are Deaf-Blind. Highlights included:

• The conference had attendees from 19 different states.

• Speakers focused on topics such as: the

importance of attachment and infant mental health in the earliest years of language and cognitive development; teleintervention (teleintervention is early intervention services provided via Facetime and/or Skype); language and brain development in young children who use ASL; accessing the expertise of Deaf adults in early intervention; and using sign language with children with cochlear implants.

• Belle Olivas (EII Department Secretary), besides

tackling registration and conference accounting, also baked 350 delicious biscochitos shaped like the state of New Mexico!

• Superintendent Gallegos was one of the keynote speakers, presenting on Believing and Making a Difference.

• Conference satisfaction surveys came back with a 100% approval rating, and many people reported that it was by far the best specialized early intervention conference they had ever attended.

Although the conference was officially hosted by the EII Department, many other members of the NMSD community came together to assist in making this event a reality. Way to go NMSD!

Top right: NMSD Superintendent Rosemary Gallegos presented the keynote speech. 2nd from top: Conference attendees and NMSD staff members - Emma Lozada, Sally Anderson, and Scott Mohan. 3rd from top: NMSD interpreters provided outstanding access during the entire conference. Bottom: NM School for the Blind and Visually Impaired Superintendent Linda Lyle and NMSD’s Superintendent Rosemary Gallegos.

EARLY CHILDHOOD - TODDLERS

TRANSFORMATIONAL LEARNING BY EMMA LOZADA Butterflies are some of the most beautiful creatures in the world. When our students saw butterflies around campus, they pointed and signed, “Butterfly!” We helped them expand their vocabulary by adding, “Yes, beautiful butterfly! Very colorful.” Then, to satisfy the natural curiosity of our students, we had a mini-lesson about butterflies. First, we watched as a caterpillar became a butterfly on YouTube. The students were fascinated. Their eyes opened wide when they saw the caterpillar transform!. Then we all read The Very Hungry Caterpillar, followed by extension activities around the subject. The students drew pictures and told stories, as they develop pre- and early literacy skills by making connections between scribbling and expressing themselves in ASL. Aspen placed her pink necklace on a piece of white paper and signed to her classmates that it was a caterpillar: “Shhhh! Caterpillar asleep.” It was sweet to see Aspen staring at the caterpillar, patiently waiting for it to turn into a butterfly! The Very Hungry Caterpillar continues to be popular among students, and we read it over and over again.

Top right: Aspen Litchfield pretending that her necklace is a caterpillar as Fiona Pedersen and Sage Woosley look on. Middle right: From left: Angel Sanchez signing “shhhhh” to his classmates Gabriella Flores, Fiona Pedersen and Sage Woosely because the caterpillar is sleeping! Top left: From left: Gabriella Flores, Aspen Litchfield, Sage Woosely, Angel Sanchez and Fiona Pedersen sharing stories about their butterflies that they created. Bottom: Aspen Litchfield staring at the caterpillar, thinking, “when will you turn into a butterfly?”.

EARLY CHILDHOOD - ALBUQUERQUE PRESCHOOL

VEGGIE TALES BY SALLY ANDERSON Did you know that one in three children aged 2-19 years in the United States is obese? NMSD is committed to improving the health of all our students, and this year we made a deeper commitment to our preschoolers through the introduction of the Early Sprouts curriculum. Early Sprouts is the only seed-to-table national curriculum geared towards preschoolers. The program approach engages young children in gardening, sensory exploration, and cooking throughout the school year. Six "target vegetables" provide the focus for exploration and discovery. Each of our four preschool programs will grow Swiss chard, carrots, tomatoes, peppers, green beans, and butternut squash from seeds. These vegetables are selected by Early Sprouts because of their relative ease of growth, variety of ways in which they grow, array of colors and textures, and adaptability in the kitchen. We kicked off the new program with a full day Early Sprouts training in August for all our NMSD ECE staff, producing a gourmet lunch using fresh ingredients and Early Sprouts vegetables and recipes. We began sensory and cooking experiences with our students in September. By the second or third week, our staff reported that the children were already eating more vegetables - and we even had some very picky staff members try foods they never thought they would try! Stay tuned for the next edition of the New Mexico Progress, when all our preschool programs will report in depth on the Early Sprouts approach. We can’t wait to share our “adventures in taste.”

Top right: RJ Armenta likes to eat his carrots with the feathery green tops on! Middle right: Brody Keller likes cornbread, but not with red bell peppers! He likes the bread so much that he wants seconds! Bottom right: Bottom right: Peyton Montoya works hard to remove the seeds from a squash. Bottom left: Able Trujillo takes a few bites of the Swiss chard cheesy quesadilla!

EARLY CHILDHOOD - FARMINGTON PRESCHOOL

A STRONG FOUNDATION BY MARY HELEN PEREZ The students of NMSD Preschool in Farmington were excited to notice a new set of construction vehicles in our classroom this August. Every day, the children chose them to play with, and used blocks to make roads and ramps for the heavy equipment. Thus a construction study began! For several days, we placed cardboard bases on the table with a basket of free form blocks of various shapes. The children were asked to construct a building. The students imagined their own designs, functions, and construction. After some practice, they glued their blocks into place. Later, they painted their creations, too. They put together a swimming pool, a McDonald’s, a playground, a Dunkin Donuts, and a home. Together, they formed “Dinosaur City.” Negotiating where each building should go, and how to build roads to connect everyone was also an engaging social activity. Next, we toured the Farmington High School construction site. The Jaynes Corporation site manager showed us around the building site. Our students pointed out everything. They watched from behind the safety fence, captivated as several big machines - including a huge crane - went to work. We plan to come back in the spring and tour the completed building. Lastly, the class visited Wagner Implement to see a few tractors up close. The students noticed the big bolts, lights, and huge tires. Logan loved the skid steer! We are off to a great start this year, building a strong foundation through student led investigations.

Top right: Lexy Brady, I’Ana Gordon, Dallas Benally, and Junior Lopez play with the new heavy machines after reading Machines at Work. 2nd from top right: Logan Lovato-Benally explores the skid steer at the tractor store. 3rd from top right: Junior Lopez smile as he constructs his playground. Bottom left: At the Farmington High School construction site, teacher Mary Helen Perez explains how the telescoping fork lift works while Logan Lovato-Benally, Lexy Brady, Dallas Benally, and I’Ana Gordon look on. Bottom right: Dallas Benally, Lexy Brady and I’Ana Gordon work together to build the connecting roads in their city.

EARLY CHILDHOOD - LAS CRUCES PRESCHOOL

MONSTER MAYHEM! BY KIM BOYKIN Las Cruces enjoyed a warm October this year, and it didn’t feel a lot like autumn when Halloween decorations started to fill the stores around town! But seeing them, we started getting excited about the upcoming holiday. We just finished a project on fairy tales, and had talked about scary dragons vs nice dragons. So we decided to explore nice vs naughty monsters too! We began by reading Go Away Big Green Monster, and decided that monsters are just make believe. We also decided to make most of our monsters nice. We made silly monster faces with play dough. We created monster slime, and added glitter and eye-balls to make it more monster-y! We started seeing monsters everywhere! Students used bright colors to make colorful monsters, as well as clay, beads, and eyes make other monster creations. When we talked about monsters being scary, we decided to imagine their scary qualities in fun, silly ways. We made pretend monster brains with cooked spaghetti, and tried to transfer the “brains” with spoons and tongs. We made spooky monster cupcakes and experimented with sporks (spoonfork) to try to make the icing look like scary fur. In the end, we decided we are in charge of our monsters, scary or not. It was a lot of fun exploring monsters! And we know, just like in the book, “they won’t come back until we say so!”

Top right: Shepard Butler adds eyes to his monster slime. Middle right: Sophie Arenibas and Helen Avila experiment with scooping monster brains (green spaghetti). Bottom right: Bottom left: Helen Avila makes a monster face out of playdoug. Bottom middle: Monster cupcakes were a blast to decorate - and even more fun to eat! Bottom right: Helen Avila’s creation using beads, eyes, and clay.

EARLY CHILDHOOD - SANTA FE PRESCHOOL

GO WITH THE FLOW! BY KIM HAND Recently, our preschool students expressed curiosity about the many spouts, gutters, and drainage ditches they saw as they walked around the NMSD campus. And with the current campus construction, they also ran to see if there was any water filling the holes. That was when we decided to study where flowing water goes. We wished for rain while we checked out all the spouts, gutters, pipes, and drainage ditches on campus with Ken Miera, NMSD’s maintenance supervisor. Our wish was granted when the rain came! We went out in the rain to see the water flow through the pipes. We were awed by the amount of water, and how fast it flowed. We enjoyed splashing, too! Later, we discussed the need to preserve water - and how we can do it. We brought some gutter, funnel, and tubes for the students to explore in the classroom. They needed to figure out how to pour water from the pipes, gutters, or funnels into a pail without spilling water on the floor. This real life experience helped them to understand the scientific conceptual understandings from Early Learning Guidelines, as well as use their problem-solving skills - all while having fun!

Top right: Ken Miera explains how the NSMD water pipe system works to Greyson Lobato, Tavian Plonski, Lorena Gutierrez, and Jason Quinonez. Middle right: Jason Quiznonez and Tavian Plonski work together to assemble a water flow system. Bottom right: Esteban Ruiz experiments with water. Top left: Greyson Lobato signs ‘the water is flowing out of the spout.’ Bottom left: Students observe water flowing from a pipe into a drainage ditch.

ELEMENTARY

AN “APP”TITUDE FOR TECH! BY BONNY VANATTA AND DIANA BERRIGAN Computers not only connect us with friends and family - they are critical for most jobs, as well! The 4th and 5th grade teachers believe students need to be ready for the future. In our rapidly changing world, technology is key. That’s why we have invested in finding ways to weave technology into our curriculum. Our use of technology in the classroom has taken many forms. We use videos, animations, and presentations during lessons to make them more visual. We also have a math program online that allows each student to practice Common Core State Standard skills (and allows the teacher to track each student’s progress). We also use many programs to encourage the students to interact with each other through secure and private websites, such as an academic chat room for students to practice English (under the guidance of their teacher), and a class blog where students can write about a given topic, post it, and receive peer feedback. Those programs are accessed via laptops, iPads, or desktop computers. All these programs are teaching students tools they will need when they graduate!

Top right: Adan Sluyter-Coffey and Ryleigh Robinson solve math problems on iPads. Middle right: Adrien Ercolino types his response to a class blog. Bottom Left: Jovi (Jocelyn) Melendez works hard organizing her skeletons on the laptop. Bottom middle: Monique Peet solves addition and subtraction problems on an iPad. Bottom right: Adrien Ercolino, Stacy Vargas and Adan Sluyter-Coffey type in TodaysMeet.com - a safe, educational chatroom for schools.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

LEARNING JOURNEYS BY CHEYENNA WILDING The middle school literature class recently read a wonderful book called Journey to the Centre of the Earth by Jules Verne. In addition to reading the book, we watched snippets of the original Journey to the Centre of the Earth movie (1959). We also made a 3D map of the countries the characters visited in the book Iceland, Germany, and Denmark. The 3D map included colored dots representing the character’s different means of travel. We also practiced new vocabulary and comprehension by playing a game of the book modeled after Candyland. Meanwhile, the middle school composition class completed an interesting unit on “Showing, not Telling.” We learned how to use adjectives and adverbs to help a reader visualize written scenes, instead of simply telling everything that happens. To practice this, we made a foldable with riddles we wrote. The riddles used as many adjectives as possible, and were on top of the foldable. The answers were hidden on the bottom. This was a great extension project, and everyone had fun inventing riddles!

Top right: Daniel Aragon, Lindsay Hand, and Mya Malone play the Journey to the Centre of the Earth board game. Bottom right: Mya Malone, Lindsay Hand, and Daniel Aragon work on their combined 3D maps project for Journey to the Centre of the Earth. Top left: Cheyenna Wilding demonstrates for Mya Malone how to make a foldable for her “Showing, not Telling” project. Bottom left: Daniel 17 Aragon and Mya Malone learn how to write riddles.

HIGH SCHOOL

SCIENCE ROCKS! Our high school students recently wrapped up a unit on minerals and rocks. They researched the most common minerals and rocks making up the Earthâ€™s crust - using geology techniques to identify them. Students also learned about mineral properties; such as streak, luster, hardness, and color. Our students began learning how to identify minerals by following step-by-step procedures, and identifying the specific characteristics they observed. They documented their observations about each mineralâ€™s light and luster. Next they determined hardness using the Mohs hardness scale. They used a fingernail, coin, knife, nail, or window glass to narrow down how hard the minerals were. Their favorite step was discovering what color emerges when they dragged a specific mineral across the streak plate. The most interesting facts related to the daily uses of minerals. Did you know there are minerals in toothpastes, pencils, drywalls, wiring, smartphones, and more? Students enjoyed this unit, and are now more aware of the many uses of minerals in everyday objects.

Top right: Students figure out the names of unknown minerals during their lab. Middle right: Janell Miller and Crystal Mitchem use posters to review the information learned about minerals and rocks. Bottom right: Estefany Reyes and Rhiannon Reynolds attempt to classify the minerals and rocks. Left: Alex McCullough, Rhiannon Reynolds and Jackie Sanchez are introduced to the new unit study, and begin exploring the different characteristics of minerals and rocks.

COMMUNITY BASED INSTRUCTION

NO BONES ABOUT IT! BY NORAH MATTHEWS We are often so busy with the external world, we forget to look inside - literally! A recent science unit in our classroom focused on just that. To develop new knowledge and understanding about the human body, students focused on learning about bones. They also learned about the heart, lungs, and digestive system. Each student created an internal diagram of their skeleton. The skeletons are hanging on the wall outside our classroom, and provides an opportunity for students to identify their various body parts and bone positions. The visual imagery of their own skeleton allowed students to make a stronger connection with themselves, and gain a greater awareness and understanding of the internal structure of their own bodies.

ADVENTUROUS LEARNERS BY COURTNEY LYONS The lower Elementary CBI class is full of adventurers, and we love learning new things! This past October, we explored the McCall’s Pumpkin Patch located in Moriarty. Our adventurers had a blast on the hayride, meeting farm animals, and of course - picking pumpkins! In preparation for our field trip, students learned new vocabulary and concepts, read related literature, engaged in sensory activities, wrote in journals, and learned about social expectations in public places. These educational and fun field trips also provide natural opportunities to apply classroom skills to life experiences. We look forward to more exciting field trips this year!

Top left: Students’ internal bodies line the hallway outside their classroom. Top right: Anthony Hidalgo proudly stands next to his internal body! Bottom from left: Josiah Smith, Aidan Lopez, Aleah Hernandez, Zeriah Baca and Adreien Jaramillo at McCall’s Pumpkin Patch. Bottom middle: Zeriah Baca and Aleah Hernandez check out the goats! Bottom right: Aidan Lopez and Adreien Jaramillo with their pumpkins!

STUDENT DEVELOPMENT

MAKING THEIR VOICES HEARD BY MEGAN KLUSZA & JIM VIGIL On October 27th, NMSD students joined the more than 100 teenagers participating in a Youth Summit at the Chavez Community Center. The Youth Summit came about as a result of a teen survey commissioned by the City of Santa Fe Children and Youth Commission. Teens shared their ideas and perceptions, and as a result, a wide range of issues and goals emerged. A Youth Summit was the natural next step. It provided a positive place for teens to gather and discuss important issues and services (or lack thereof) for young people in Santa Fe. The Youth Summit was also an extension of the Mayor’s efforts to engage young people, promote overall well-being, and extend opportunities to Santa Fe youth. Students broke into small groups to discuss topics ranging from financial issues to community activities for youth. Other topics included bullying, mentorship options, healthy school food, and immigration. The summit was led by youth leaders who had been through a series of facilitator trainings with the Professional Development Center at Eagle Rock, a national leader in youth advocacy and programs. Our students, Jim and I had a wonderful time! Julio Portillo and Jacob Stevens “liked interacting with their hearing peers to discuss different topics.” Daniel Aragon shared that he “enjoyed seeing old friends, meeting new “hearing” peers and brainstorming ideas about what the City of Santa Fe could do for youths.” Antonia Martinez “really liked that I was able to share my ideas and opinions.” Samuel Boyd expressed that it was “nice to experience the varied perspectives and thoughts of others.” Jacob Lopez also shared “the roundtable discussions and making suggestions for the Santa Fe Community was fun.” “ This event provided a great leadership opportunity for our students to feel heard, and to be part of the dialogue for new ideas and change. It was great to see our students gain confidence from this.” ~ Megan Klusza

Top left: Janell Miller, Antonia Martinez and Jackie Sanchez participating in a roundtable discussion about whether students can make a difference in local politics. Top right: Samuel Boyd and a student from another school high five during an Ice Breaker. Bottom left: Maya Malone, Andrea Leyba, and Rhiannon Reynolds brainstorm with others about ideas for activities appealing to youth. Bottom right: Jacob 20 Stevens and a fellow student from Santa Fe discuss whether students who eat at school cafeterias are more likely to be obese.

TRANSITION

FUTURE THINKING BY JESSE WOOSLEY Our students have been very busy exploring how they will transition into the future. IEPs: October is IEP season at NMSD, and, weâ€™ve completed the educational planning for all of our students, with an increased commitment to coordinate transition services with the New Mexico Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (NMDVR). A DVR counselor with expertise in deaf and hard of hearing issues has been present at meetings for many of our students aged 14 and up. We look forward to continue to build on our schoolâ€™s relationship with vital programs to support successful transition outcomes. Our transitioning students also presented their interests, skills, goals, and needed supports through a PowerPoint presentation at IEP meetings (A 2004 IDEA amendment requires that students are invited to their meetings). This encourages the self-determination and autonomy of NMSD students, and acknowledges that they are in charge of their life choices, and can contribute to the community in meaningful ways. Job Fair: A group of our seniors attended the 6th Annual Job Fair for People with Disabilities. This was a hands-on learning field trip for our students. They had the opportunity to hand out resumes and meet with employers for informational interviews. There was a large number of community programs, inclusive companies, and businesses at the Job Fair, and our students all found information to match their career interests. Hands-on Work: The Job Preparation Program continues to provide important hands-on work experiences, providing job support and feedback to increase employability and critical thinking skills. A hallmark of JPP is our positive relationships with many employers in the community, and this helps provide meaningful work experiences for our students. Career Expo: In February, we are planning the 1st annual Career Expo at the Santa Fe Higher Education Center. Workshops and educational opportunities geared towards transition and independent living will be offered for students, teachers, and family members. Please spread the word and plan on joining us!

Top: Standing from left: Margaret Appa, Estefany Reyes, Joseph Hicks, Jojo Montano, and Guinivere Shorty (sitting) at the Job Fair. Right 2nd from top: Margaret Appa discussing possible career opportunities with an employment agency. Right 3rd from top: Pamela Kayonnie sorts through potatoes to be counted and bagged at the Food Depot. Bottom right: Great teamwork between Lucille Gregory and Manuelito Velasquez stocking supplies at KMart. Bottom left: Cedric Toledo replaces a panel at the Don Juan Paint & Body Shop.

LITERARY ARTS

A FEAST FOR THE EYES BY SCOTT VOLLMAR ASL is meant to be celebrated, and on October 1st we did just that! NMSD hosted thirty-two ASL Masters, two Masters of Ceremonies, and eight mentors to create an evening of ASL masterpiece performances. The performances included stories, rhymes, narratives, skits, ABC and Number stories. The audience clearly enjoyed the evening. Jesse Jones III was a special guest star, performing pieces from his travelling ASL performance group. James Litchfield III also performed, adding a commentary about ASL as an authentic language. This year’s Feast for the Eyes marked the 11th Annual ASL Literature Event, and it was a night that won’t be soon forgotten. See you at next year’s masterpiece!

Top left: Personification performance galore by Jayden Vacher and Jesse Haley! Top right: Wendy Fuentes shares her original story. Left 2nd from top: Samuel Boyd shows his fear for Slender Man in a Group ABC story. Middle: A battle between Tyrannous Rex and Triceratops in the form of an enchanting 1-10 number story by Tavian Plonski. Right 2nd from top: Our Masters of Ceremonies, Olivia Haley and Alex McCullough - and their magical chemistry! Bottom left: The entire Cast and Crew of 2015’s Feast for the Eyes. Bottom right: Our guest storyteller, Jesse Jones III, gives a demonstration of a Rathskeller dance.

STUDENT LIFE

LEARNING THROUGH LIFE BY RODDY CABBAGE This fall has been an exciting time in our Student Life department. Since we believe that learning should never stop, we strive to provide a comprehensive afterschool program for all of our residential students. Our goal is share opportunities to form well-rounded individuals. Below are a few of the activities students recently enjoyed. Our 6th annual burning of Lil’ Zozobra was a huge success! The tradition began when we felt that the Zozobra event at Fort Marcy was inappropriate for our elementary students, and it has evolved into an activity for all students. This year, the Middle School boys built a three foot marionette effigy of Zozobra. We planned several activities before the “main event, “ including a BBQ, piñata, Zozobra ASL stories, “Pin the Bow,” and photo sessions. Elementary students also designed and dressed in a special gloomy outfit, and assigned one of them to be the fire spirit dancer. The students danced their way around the NMSD community. Once the excitement reached a fevered pitch, the fireworks started! When Lil’ Zozobra caught fire, all the year’s troubles and worries went up in smoke! During the first week of IEP “season,” the Student Life Department hosted an Open House for the NMSD staff. The students welcomed their teachers and staff to their cottage. The staff enjoyed refreshments - prepared and served by students - while learning more about cottage life. The purpose of the event was to help students and staff develop better relationships with one another. it was so successful, we are already planning another event in February. In keeping with the Halloween spirit, the cottages held a pumpkin carving competition. Students had to come up with the ideas, and carve the pumpkins themselves. Competition was stiff, but the Chamisa students (Upper Elementary) won the day. We were all impressed with their creativity and artistic ability!

Top right: Students playing “Pin the Bow” on Lil’ Zozobra. Middle right: Melinda Johnston serving Jeremy Wagoner, one of NMSD’s instructors, during his visit to her cottage’s open house. Bottom right: Chamisa Cottage’s winning pumpkin design – Beautiful! Top left: Lil’ Zozobra going up in smoke! Bottom left: Students welcome visitors to their cottage and offer peanut butter cookies and juice.

ATHLETICS

FALL SEASON VARSITY GIRLS VOLLEYBALL Front row from left: Rhiannon Reynolds, Antonia Martinez and Patricia Lopez. Second row from left: Manager Andrea Leyba, Manager Margaret Appa and Manager Jasmine De La Pena. Third row from left: Vergena Chee, Head Coach Marissa Soboleski, Assistant Coach Crystal Mitchem and Lindsay Hand. Back row from left: Mya Malone, Janell Miller and Estefany Reyes.

VARSITY BOYS FOOTBALL

Standing from left: Assistant Coach Elias Montoya, Head Coach James Litchfield, Jonathan Garcia, Chancey Phillips, Alex McCullough, Deven Thompson, Waylon Lopez, Luis Villalobos, Jacob Stevens, Manager Johnathan Ludwigs and Assistant Coach Preston Ponder. Kneeling from left: Manager Cedric Toledo, Julio Portillo, Joseph Montano, Antonio LopezZavala, Alex Lucero, Jacob Lopez and Manager Manuelito Velasquez. Not pictured: Eloy Garcia and Jeremy Dan.

MIDDLE SCHOOL VOLLEYBALL

From left: Evelyn Johnson, Coach Briean Burton and Olivia Haley.

FALL CHEER TEAM

Front row: Patricia Lopez. Second row: Antonia Martinez and Vergena Chee. Third row: Estefany Reyes and Rhiannon Reynolds. Back row: Jonathan Garcia, Lindsay Hand, Janell Miller and Jacob Stevens. Not pictured: Mya Malone.

ATHLETICS

FALL SEASON U6 ELEMENTARY SOCCER

U7 ELEMENTARY SOCCER

Elias Curley. Not pictured: Esteban Ruiz.

From left: Kaelyn Sluyter-Coffey, Jesse Crespin, Kimora Vollmar and Sierra Woosley. Not pictured: Arthur White.

U9 ELEMENTARY SOCCER

U12 ELEMENTARY SOCCER

From left: Adan Sluyter-Coffey, Julian Aranda, Angelique Quinonez and Adrien Ercolino.

Ben Hernandez

ACADEMIC BOWL

Front row from left: Jacob Stevens, Jacob Lopez, Samuel Boyd, and Rhiannon Reynolds. Middle row from left: Joseph Hicks and Augusta Skoog. Back row from left: Coaches Nathan Harrison and Carrie Nichols.

ATHLETICS

HOMECOMING

2 3

1 Letty Perez, NMSD Athletic Director, and NMSDâ€™s

roadrunner mascot getting the crowd going during the Homecoming pep rally.

2 From left: Olivia Haley, Kieran Ercolino, Bruce

Brewer Jr. and Dustin Hand did a beautiful job signing the National Anthem at the start of the football game.

3 Jonathan Garcia dodging team members from

the Wisconsin School for the Deaf.

4 Our fall cheer team showing their roadrunner spirit

and pride during the pep rally.

5 Janell Miller, Zelena De La Pena and Joseph Hicks

showing their spirit during Red & White Day!

6 Lindsay Hand passing the ball during the varsity

volleyball game against Minnesota.

7 Homecoming King and Queen Joseph Montano

and Jasmine De La Pena.

ATHLETICS

WHAT A WEEKEND! BY LETTY PEREZ NMSD’s Homecoming and Alumni 130th Reunion Weekend took place on campus this past October. NMSD had the great pleasure of hosting its biggest sporting event to date - the Great Plains School for the Deaf (GPSD) girls’ varsity volleyball tournament. It was the first time in history NMSD hosted this tournament, and what a weekend of competition and camaraderie it was! We were thrilled that the varsity volleyball teams from the Arkansas, Minnesota, Kansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Iowa and Wisconsin Schools for the Deaf traveled so far to be part of this exciting tournament. Wisconsin School for the Deaf’s varsity football team also traveled to New Mexico so they could play against our varsity football team during the homecoming game. All of the teams displayed great competitive skills, and had a lot of fun too! This year’s homecoming football game went to Wisconsin with a final score of 53 – 13. The GPSD championship went to Minnesota, a school that has enjoyed a fourteen year run as champions! Congrats to each and every player, as they are all winners! It was wonderful to see athletes, students, staff, families, alumni and GPSD fans coming together for such a historic event, and I extend my gratitude to everyone that assisted with this fabulous weekend!

Top right: Waylon Lopez helps Superintendent Gallegos put on shoulder pads in preparation for a shoulder bump with Letty Perez, NMSD’s Athletic Director. 2nd from top: The Bump! 3rd from top: Minnesota School for the Deaf – 2015’s GPSD Championship team. Top left: Oklahoma 27 and Arkansas compete in a fierce game against each other. Bottom: All of the GPSD teams and coaches at the end of an outstanding competitive weekend!

FAMILY SUPPORT

HANDS-ON COMMUNITY BY DANIEL TIMLEN Over the past four years the Family Housing Program (FHP) has provided invaluable experiences, services, and growth for ten families at one time or another. The program allows young children to attend NMSD while their family receives on campus housing in exchange for participation in monthly family programming which includes 15 hours of ASL instruction, 5 hours of family-specific workshops and 5 hours of volunteering with the NMSD school program and at campus events. To clearly understand its impact, we asked a few participants to share their thoughts and the benefits they experiences of the program. WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO PARTICIPATE IN THE FAMILY HOUSING PROGRAM (FHP)? “Simply put, we had to… the program provided us with the opportunity to be part of the Deaf Community here at NMSD. [It also provided] full inclusion which we knew was best for Elias’ educational and personal growth.” “The need for us to grow together, for Esteban to have access to everything that’s happening around him.” IN THE TIME YOUR FAMILY HAS BEEN PARTICIPATING IN THE FHP, WHAT CHANGES HAVE YOU NOTICED? “Elias is much more expressive, tells us of his wants, needs, and feelings. Interacts more meaningfully with his friends… oh friends, he has more of them! Most importantly we as a family have grown, we support each other more, learn about each other, and communicate with a new language.” “Esteban is smiling a lot now. We communicate more now that he has picked up so many new signs. He is expressing himself clearly…. I have seen him learn and change more in the last thirty days than in the two years previously.” IF YOU CAN SUM UP THE FHP IN ONE SENTENCE, WHAT WOULD IT BE? “It’s like a new supportive family.” As the pictures show, the family in the FHP are truly hands-on when it comes to activities with their children. And everyone is learning and growing together!

Top right: Lillian Pinto and her daughter Kyra Might-Morgan put on a show for the Parent Playgroup. Middle right: FHP participants Krystle Curley, Chanelle Hobbs, and Heather Goodyear, participate in one of the Parent Playgroups. Bottom right: Chanelle Hobbs, Lorena Gutierrez, Esteban Ruiz and Lillian Pinto enjoy a Homecoming theme Parent Playgroup.

CENTER FOR EDUCATIONAL CONSULTATION & TRAINING

FAMILY MATTERS BY JOLEE JOOS The Center for Educational Consultation and Training’s statewide support for Deaf and Hard of Hearing students is expanding family programming by increasing the amount of Family to Family events we offer around the state. An integral goal of these events is to develop strong, ongoing relationships with the students and their families. Our September 12th Family to Family Event in Farmington proved to be just such an opportunity to develop relationships. We lucked onto a gorgeous day amid the beautiful surroundings at Berg Park in Farmington. Several families joined us for a day of activities and games focusing on how to expand language, regardless of the mode of communication. The event also provided an opportunity for families to talk and network with one another. The NMSD staff - including CECT Educational Consultants and the 4 Corners’ ASL Coach and Deaf Mentor left with the feeling that they had built trust and connected with families on a more personal level. We are looking forward to the opportunity to host similar events in other parts of the state. In addition to the Family to Family weekend on the NMSD campus on April 16 – 17, 2016, we are in the planning process of a one-day spring event in the southern part of the state. Be on the lookout for additional details, and we hope to see you at one of our next events!

Top left: Parent Linda Williams shares her story with other families during a language activity. Top right: Parent Jennifer Moberly practices ASL skills with ASL Coach, Hillary Frankowiak. Bottom left: Parent Linda Williams shares her story with other families during a language activity. Levi James having fun on a motorcycle in between activities. Bottom right: Parent Linda Williams shares her story with other 29 families during a language activity. Family members practice how to expand communication when using ASL.

COMMUNITY RELATIONS

PARTNERS THROUGH AND THROUGH BY KERI-LYNN MCBRIDE Over the years, NMSD has enjoyed a rewarding partnership with Sorenson Video Relay Services (SVRS). The mission of SVRS is to provide the highestquality communication products and services to all deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. The company's offerings include video interpreting service, Sorenson Video Relay Service® (SVRS®), and the Sorenson ntouch® suite of products such as the ntouch® VP videophone, ntouch® Tablets, to name just a few. SVRS has provided NMSD with VP videophones and stations throughout the campus, and it has revolutionized the way we communicate with each other - especially between cottage students and their families. Each cottage has the necessary equipment to allow students and family members to call each other after school and during the evening. SVRS provides families of Deaf/Hard of Hearing students with equipment as well, so that they can stay connected to their children during the week. They also donated their very own patented video compression (10) software licenses called “Sorenson Squeeze” our computer labs. SVRS believes in giving back, and has sponsored a wide variety of NMSD activities and events over the years. These include donating funds for our 125th Founder’s Day Celebration, Family Social Gatherings in Roswell, Farmington, Albuquerque and Gallup, a large screen monitor housed in our library and used for read-alouds, Holiday Open Houses at our Las Cruces and Farmington Preschools, Art supplies for Deaf Mentor training, athletic events such as GPSD Volleyball Tournament, Academic Bowl, Roadrunner Classic Basketball Tournament, registration day lunches for parents, and books for our ABQ, SF and Las Cruces Preschools. This year, they redesigned the awesome VP booth in the lobby of our Roadrunner Activity Center and Larson Gym! On behalf of NMSD, I extend our heartfelt gratitude to the entire team at SVRS for providing state of the art equipment and services related to Videophone technology, as well as financial support. Thank you for having such big hearts, SVRS and know that you have truly made a huge difference here at NMSD.

Top: The new VP booth in the Roadrunner Activity Center. Middle: The New Mexico SVRS team (from left) Henri Grau, Kevin Rittenhouse, Jennifer Pfau – SVRS District Manager, and Dale Loper at a recent Community Forum that NMSD hosted for SVRS. Bottom: SVRS provided funds to provide food at several family gatherings that took place during NMSD’s 125th Celebration.

COMMUNITY RELATIONS

WELCOME HOME!! BY KERI-LYNN MCBRIDE NMSD’s 130th Alumni Reunion took place the weekend of October 8 – 10, 2015. 136 alumni attended the reunion, traveling to New Mexico from Colorado, Arizona, Texas, Ohio, and California. Needless to say, our campus was bursting with activities, events, and great energy! The reunion was the same weekend as NMSD’s Homecoming and GPSD (Greater Plains School for the Deaf) tournament weekend, allowing alumni to attend GPSD tournament volleyball games and Homecoming football game, as well as board meetings where new officers were elected. We also offered campus tours on Friday and Saturday so alumni could visit our new and/or renovated buildings. It was heartwarming to watch as they toured Hester Hall, Connor Hall, the elementary cottage and Dillon Hall, sharing memories and delight. Alumni particularly loved hunting for themselves in the senior class photos that line Dillon Hall’s walls. All tours ended with a visit to NMSD’s newest building, housing our library and the relocated museum. Everyone loved our stunning new quarters! On Friday evening, alumni attended the Superintendent’s reception where they had a chance to meet Superintendent Rosemary Gallegos while mingling and munching on delicious New Mexican appetizers. On Saturday evening, the alumni banquet was held in Connor Hall Gym. The evening included thanking various individuals for their support over the years. This year’s planning team was appreciated, too! It is always such a pleasure to welcome alumni home to their school. I know they are already looking forward to the next reunion in 2020. See you then!

Top left: Robert Miera and Ray Gutierrez see each other for the first time in many years! Top right: Faye Falvey shares information during the homecoming pep rally about NMSD’s first cheer team circa 1950, as Estefany Reyes looks on. Bottom left: Anthony Atuna proudly sits near his very own shoe-making bench in the museum. Bottom right: All the alumni together again!

CONSTRUCTION

The Health Center before demolition started.

The “Old Laundry Building” that also housed NMSD’s Outreach, Development & Community Relations and IT staff over the years.

The Sosoya Building. 32

The demolition on the Health Center begins.

The “Old Laundry” Building during demolition.

The Sosoya Building after being taken down.

CONSTRUCTION

Vision

Beliefs

Children and students in New Mexico who are deaf/hard of hearing will become lifelong learners and contributing, well-rounded successful individuals in an increasingly global society.

In an environment of respect, trust, and safety, we believe in…

•

viewing people who are deaf/hard of hearing from a cultural and linguistic perspective

•

having high expectations that positively affect self-esteem, identity and whole person development

•

providing early, ongoing, and fluid access to communication through natural language models

•

developing proficiency in American Sign Language and English which is critical for fluent communication, literacy and academic achievement

•

supporting the development of auditory skills and spoken language as appropriate to the strengths and needs of the individual child/student

•

fostering strong partnerships with families through learning and social opportunities

•

identifying each student’s unique strengths and using them as the foundation for learning and development

•

ensuring the child/student is a consistent and active participant in planned and incidental learning experiences in and out of the classroom

•

embracing ethnic, linguistic, and cultural diversity

•

developing competence in the use of advanced technology

•

having high quality and committed staff who possess and maintain expertise in their respective area

•

supporting all students in the pursuit of their personal and professional aspirations

The front entrance to the Health Center is being preserved and is being incorporated into the plans.

The buildings are down and the crews have been back filling the space in preparations for the next steps in the project.

A view looking down towards where the Health Center and Old Laundry Building used to be.

New pipes for heat being installed leading up the front entrance of Cartwright Hall.

February 2013 Rendering of the new space which will include a new entrance to the James A. Little Theater, a playing field for our younger students, aquaponic greenhouses, a pavilion and more!

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PERMIT #1029 ALB, NM

Volume 106 / Issue 1 / Summer/Fall 2015-16

A WARM WELCOME TO ROSEMARY J. GALLEGOS NMSDâ€™S NINTH SUPERINTENDENT!

1060 CERRILLOS ROAD, SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO 87505

www.nmsd.k12.nm.us

NEW MEXICO'S FIRST PUBLIC SCHOOL

THE NEW MEXICO PROGRESS since 1909 USPS #381-500 / ISSN #0896-6478 Vol. 106 / Issue 1 / Summer/Fall 2015-16