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CONGRATULATIONS

You did it! Hard work and dedication have brought you to this day. As you transition from high school to majoring in life skills, all of us at Nusenda Credit Union celebrate you on this accomplishment.

“Success is the sum of small efforts, repeated day in and day out.”

– Robert Collier

Congratulations to all the regional high school and UNM-Taos graduates.

Your dedication and perserverance are an inspiration to all.

local grads traveled

Ellen Miller-Goins

42 County All Stars:

Blynn Beltran

C L ASS 2O26

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

The Class of 2026 is graduating into a world moving faster than any generation before it. Artificial intelligence is already reshaping how people work, communicate, learn and create; and no one fully knows what the world will look like 10 years from now.

That uncertainty can feel intimidating. But every generation has faced its own version of it.

The best advice is probably the least glamorous: Learn how to think. Learn how to work. Learn how to adapt. Show up on time. Keep your word. Read more than you scroll. Don’t confuse attention with accomplishment.

Technology changes quickly. Human nature doesn’t.

The people who succeed over time are rarely the loudest people in the room. They are the ones who stay curious, keep learning, solve problems and treat other people well. Talent matters. Reliability matters more.

As you’ll see throughout this special section, there is no single path forward. Some graduates are pursuing college, some are entering the workforce, some are still figuring things out. That’s normal. Few of us had life mapped out at 18 and many adults are still improvising. What matters is movement. Take the next step.

Try something difficult. Be willing to fail and try again.

And wherever life takes you, don’t underestimate the value of where you came from. Northern New Mexico has a way of teaching resilience, creativity and perspective: qualities the world could use more of.

Congratulations, Class of 2026. Build a life bigger than your résumé. Be useful. Stay curious. Try not to become a spectator in your own life.

Dear Class of 2026,

Congratulations on your graduation! This is an exciting milestone. As you step into your next chapter, remember: we are living in a moment when your ideas, leadership, and energy matter more than ever and you already have the skills to create real change in your community starting now.

LOR is here to help you do just that, with accessible funding and hands-on support. LOR funds projects—big or small, practical or experimental— designed and led by Taos locals of all ages. No formal application or nonprofit experience is required, and most eligible projects receive funding in less than 30 days.

Visit lorfoundation.org to explore the projects LOR has already supported in Taos, including the work of Taos High’s ECO Club (highlighted below).

And when you’re ready (or even before you feel fully ready!) reach out to me. I’m excited to hear what you’re dreaming up and figure out how LOR can help you make it happen.

Turning Ideas Into Impact: Youth-Led Sustainability in Action

At Taos High School, students are not just learning about sustainability—they are building it. The Sustainable Living Honors Class and the ECO Club are leading a student-driven initiative to expand hands-on environmental education and improve access to healthy, locally grown food on campus by turning sustainability concepts into practical action.

In 2025, with $30,000 in support from the LOR Foundation—alongside partnerships with Taos County, Kit Carson Electric Cooperative, and Taos Ski Valley—students built a greenhouse, a chicken coop,

and a food processing and preservation space. Today, students are growing fresh produce, raising chickens for eggs, and helping ensure surplus food supports peers in need. They’re also installing recycling stations, alongside student-led education campaigns that encourage the entire school community to reduce waste and rethink consumption.

This initiative, led by students and powered by community collaboration, is transforming a school campus and demonstrating what youth leadership can achieve when ideas are given the space and support to grow. Scan the code to learn more or support the Taos High Eco Club!

Class of '26 Graduation Dates

Taos Academy

FRIDAY MAY 15

2 P.M.

Taos Academy Field 110 Paseo Del Canon West, Taos

Questa High School

SATURDAY MAY 16

10 A.M.

Questa High School Gym, 57 Sage Brush Road, Questa

Moreno Valley Preparatory

SATURDAY MAY 16 11 A.M.

Moreno Valley Preparatory, 56 Camino Grande, Angel Fire

Taos

High School

FRIDAY MAY 22

6 P.M.

(weather permitting), 134 Cervantes St., Taos

Vista Grande High School

FRIDAY MAY 29 10 A.M.

Bataan Hall, 121 Civic Plaza Dr, Taos Peñasco High School

SATURDAY MAY 30

10 A.M.

Jicarita Gymnasium, 13 School Road, Peñasco

Peñasco High School

Wesley Vigil Jr. Congratulations Class of 2026!

Alijah Dennis Vasquez

Anjali Pilar Dominque

Inocencia Tricia Ibanez

Jaden Issac Pacheco

Jaden J Archuleta

Jeremiah Robert

Martinez

Jeremy N Rodriguez

Justin J Pyne

Kaileb Sean Atencio

Katelynn Sanchez

Nehemiah Angelo

Chavez

Rochelle Kaidance

Lopez

Santos Isacc Espinoza

\ SENIOR STORIES

Class of 2026 reflects on growth, challenges and what comes next

Alyse Lovato

SENIOR YEAR HIT ME faster than I expected. One minute I was getting ready for my older sister to graduate, and now it’s my turn. Looking back, this year has been one of the busiest but also one of the most meaningful for me. This year, I really tried to focus on staying on top of my schoolwork while balancing sports and just trying to be a good person overall. It wasn’t always easy, but it definitely taught me a lot.

Sports have been a huge part of my life, especially these last four years. I played soccer, basketball and track, which kept me busy year-round. Each sport brought me something different. Soccer helped me with teamwork, and I was able to make connections with people I never knew I would. Basketball gave me so many memories with some amazing girls, and track helped me focus on my personal growth and gave me excitement. There were long practices, tough games and moments where I felt exhausted, but it was all worth it. Being part of a team and working toward

something bigger than myself is something I’ll always value. Outside of sports, I’ve also stayed connected to things that matter to me, like my church’s youth group and Mariachi Questa. Youth group gave me a place to grow not just socially but personally, and it helped me stay grounded throughout the year. Mariachi Questa was another big part of my experience, and it brought memories, music and community into my life in a really special way. It’s something I’m proud to have been a part of and am sad to let go of.

When I wasn’t busy with school or activities, I found time for things I enjoy, like being outdoors and baking. Whether it was going to the mountains with my family or spending time in the kitchen making something, those moments helped me relax and reset. They reminded me that even with a packed schedule, it’s important to make time for yourself and the people outside of school. I also have a job in the summer in Red River to help prepare me for the real world and, of course, make the money I need after graduation. I also love the people I get to work with, so it is always a joy.

One of the most memorable parts of this year has honestly just been being around everyone one last time. There’s something different about senior year — you start to realize that these everyday moments won’t last forever. Sitting in class, laughing with friends, walking through the halls — it all feels more meaningful now. Even though the year is going by quickly, I think we’re all excited for what comes next.

After graduation, I plan to attend Central New Mexico Community College to earn a degree in diagnostic medical sonography. After that, I want to continue my education at the University of New Mexico to earn my bachelor’s degree. My goal is to become a prenatal sonographer, which is something I feel really passionate about. I like the idea of helping people during such an important time in their lives.

Overall, senior year has been a mix of hard work, fun and a lot of memories. It’s bittersweet knowing it’s coming to an end, but I’m excited to see what the future holds. High school has shaped me into who I am today, and I’m ready to take that into the next chapter of my life.

Congratulations CLASS OF

Celebrating the graduates of Taos County & the Moreno Valley

Theo Blaustein

AS I GET READY TO GRADUATE , I’m thinking about everything that’s shaped me — the challenges, the opportunities and the community that’s pushed me to aim higher.

Right now, I’m driven by a wide range of interests. I plan to study economics in college, and it’s something I’ve become genuinely obsessed with — not just the theory, but how it can be used to create real change. Outside the classroom, I’ve always loved being active and connected: backpacking, playing sports, traveling and spending time with friends have all been a big part of who I am.

This year, I pushed myself harder than I ever have. I balanced playing two sports at the same time — soccer and football — while taking a demanding academic load that included four AP classes, two honors courses and two University of New Mexico classes. On top of that, I worked with the LOR Foundation, where I wrote three grants

totaling $85,000 for sustainable community projects. That experience showed me how ideas can turn into real-world impact, and it reinforced my interest in economics and environmental work.

Service has also been a huge part of my senior year. I worked and volunteered with Localogy as a camp counselor for their free summer camp, a grant writer and a fundraiser. I joined community efforts like helping Joe Mascarenas clean his yard to avoid abatement — small actions that make a big difference locally. I also serve as the youth town councilor for the town of Taos, a role I take seriously because it gives me a voice to advocate for my peers and contribute to decisions that affect our community. And through it all, I’ve stayed grounded working at Antonio’s restaurant as a busser.

One of the most unforgettable moments of this year came on the field — kicking the game-winning field goal against Albuquerque Academy in the playoffs. It’s a moment I’ll carry with me, not just because of the win, but because of what it represented: teamwork, pressure and rising to the

occasion when it matters most.

Looking at my classmates, I couldn’t be prouder. We’ve faced challenges, but we’ve also shown resilience, ambition and talent across the board. I truly believe the Class of 2026 is something special — a group of scholars, athletes and artists who have pushed each other to succeed.

Next year, I’ll be attending Rice University, where I plan to major in economics and minor in environmental science. My goal is to pursue a career in environmental economics — to use what I learn to make a meaningful difference, especially for communities like the one that raised me.

As one of my favorite teachers once said, “Be the change you want to see in the world.” That’s something I carry with me as I move forward.

Taos has given me the foundation, the support and the inspiration to take this next step. And while I’m excited for what’s ahead, I’ll always be proud to call this community home.

Photos: shotbyfabs.com

Laura Jaslene Avitia-Barut

I’m Laura Jaslene Avitia-Barut, and as I prepare to graduate from Moreno Valley Preparatory, I find myself reflecting on a journey that has taken me between Taos and Angel Fire — and ultimately helped me discover who I am and who I want to become.

Storytelling has always been at the center of my life. This year, I fully leaned into that passion by creating a short film for my senior project — “Bake It Till You Make It.” I wrote, directed, filmed and edited it myself, while my classmates brought it to life as actors. It was a fictional, lighthearted take on a baking competition, and to make it more fun, I let everyone actually bake during filming. I even submitted it to the New Mexico state competition, Film Prize Jr. I didn’t win any awards, but that didn’t matter — the experience of creating something from start to finish meant everything to me. It showed me that this is what I want to pursue: telling stories through film.

Outside of film, I discovered another passion this year: helping others. I spent time tutoring sophomores in geometry, and I found real joy in seeing something click for someone who might have been struggling. Math has always

come naturally to me — something I think I inherited from my grandfather — but teaching it helped me connect with others in a new way. It reminded me that sometimes the most meaningful moments come from simply being there for someone else.

I also stayed involved in my school and community. I volunteered at the Always Loving Mankind Food Pantry, helped with school events like our annual haunted house — especially activities for younger kids — and stepped into theater during my senior year. Even though being on stage makes me nervous, I joined the ensemble for our musical, “Alice by Heart,” and helped with props and choreography. Pushing myself outside my comfort zone taught me that growth doesn’t happen when you play it safe.

That’s probably the biggest lesson I’ll take with me from this year: stepping outside of what feels comfortable can open doors I didn’t even know were there. Whether it was speaking up more in class, performing in front of others, or taking on leadership roles, I’ve grown into someone who is more confident and willing to try.

My graduating class is small — just 10 of us — and that closeness made this year even more special. We supported each other through the stress and celebrated the good moments together. I’m especially grateful for my friends Kiersten, Alexa and Serena, and my sister Penelope, who have been there for me every step of the way.

My parents have also been a huge part of my journey. As the first in my family to graduate from high school, this moment means more than I can fully express. Their support and encouragement pushed me to keep going, even when things felt overwhelming.

After graduation, I plan to attend the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, where I’ve earned a full academic scholarship. I hope to study film and continue developing my storytelling skills, possibly alongside an interest in journalism. Leaving Northern New Mexico will be a big change, but it’s one I’m ready for.

Moreno Valley Preparatory has given me more than an education — it’s given me confidence, connection and a sense of direction. As I look ahead, I carry with me the lessons I’ve learned, the people who supported me and the belief that I can create something meaningful in the world. Class of 2026, we made it — and this is just the beginning.

TAOS ACADEMY

Spyridon Stonn

IF THERE’S ONE THING I’VE LEARNED ABOUT MYSELF , it’s that I don’t really fit into just one category — and I’m okay with that.

Ever since I was young, I’ve loved science. Not just one part of it — all of it. Biology, physics, psychology, even nuclear science. The problem is, the more I’ve learned, the harder it’s become to pick just one direction. There are too many interesting paths, and I’ve never felt like I had to rush into choosing one.

So instead of forcing an answer this year, I focused on something that helps me stay present: music. I’ve been playing drums since eighth grade, and it’s become the one thing that consistently clears my head. When everything starts to feel like too much, I can sit down and just play. This year, I decided to take on one of the most difficult songs I could find — “The Dance of Eternity” by Dream Theater. I’m still working on it with my teacher,

Randy Morris, and honestly, that feels right. It’s not about finishing it quickly — it’s about the process and pushing myself to get better.

Outside of that, my time has been split between work and building things. I work at Gutiz, and I also design and build websites for local clients. It’s a different kind of creativity than music, but I like that balance — something structured, something technical, something I can step back and see when it’s done.

A lot of my time outside of school is also spent with people — whether that’s playing music, hanging out or even just sitting down for a weekly game of Magic: The Gathering. It might seem like a small thing, but it’s actually helped me connect with a bigger part of the

Taos community. There’s something about having a place where people just show up, play and share time together.

Senior year itself has been what I’d call quietly great. Nothing over the top — just a lot of moments with friends, remembering everything that’s happened over the past four years and realizing it’s all coming to an end. It feels like everyone is ready to move forward, even if we don’t all know exactly where we’re going yet.

After graduation, I’m planning to take a step back before jumping into the next thing. After 10 years of school and two years of college classes, I want a little time to reset before going back to study science. I still don’t know which field I’ll choose — and that’s kind of the point. I’d rather take the time to figure it out than rush into something just to have an answer.

For now, I’m okay being someone who’s still exploring — whether that’s through science, music or whatever comes next.

2349 St. Hwy 522 (Next to Family Dollar)

Opening Soon!

575-586-0414

575-586-0561

Visit us for all your hard-tofind seasonal, contracting and home repair needs. We have the experience to get the job done with our family ofstores: QuestaLumber& HardwareCo., Northstar TireCenter CarQuesta, and Questa Small Engine Works. Personalized service is our number one priority!

Visit us for all your hard-to-find seasonal, contracting, and home repair needs. We have the experience to get the job done with our family of stores.

Visit us for all your hard-tofind seasonal, contracting and home repair needs. We have the experience to get the job done with our family ofstores: QuestaLumber& HardwareCo., Northstar TireCenter

Questa Small Engine Works. Personalized service is our

Visit us for all your hard-tofind seasonal, contracting and home repair needs. We have the experience to get the job done with our family QuestaLumber& HardwareCo., Northstar TireCenter, CarQuesta, and Questa Small Engine Works. Personalized service is our

Visit us for all your hard-to-find seasonal, contracting, and home repair needs. We have the experience to get the job done with our family of stores. Personalized service is our number one Hardwarestoreand

VISTA GRANDE

Geavanna Cordova

AS I LOOK BACK ON MY SENIOR YEAR , I realize just how important this chapter has been in shaping who I am and where I’m headed next.

This year, I made the decision to graduate early — a choice that pushed me to stay focused, manage my time carefully and make sure I met every requirement while keeping my grades strong. Along the way, I also took dual-credit courses through UNM-Taos, and I’m proud to say I’m graduating not only with my high school diploma, but also with my Certified Nursing Assistant certification. That accomplishment means a lot to me and reflects the hard work I’ve put in.

Outside of academics, I had the opportunity to intern at Holy Cross Hospital in the cancer support services department. That experience gave me a deeper understanding of the healthcare field and confirmed that this is the path I want to pursue. It showed me how important compassion and care are, especially during some of the

most difficult moments in people’s lives, and it inspired me to want to make a difference in that kind of setting.

I also served as vice president at my school, which allowed me to take on a leadership role and be more involved in supporting both school activities and my classmates. Through that experience, I learned a lot about responsibility, communication and working with others in different situations.

Overall, my senior year was a positive and meaningful experience. I was able to take part in many different activities, and even though I wasn’t originally part of this graduating class, my classmates welcomed me and made me feel included. That sense of belonging made a big difference and is something I’ll always appreciate.

It’s hard to point to just one memorable moment, because what made this year special wasn’t a single event — it was the people. My family, friends and teachers supported me every step of the way, and they are the reason this year means so much to me.

Staying connected to my culture is also an important part of who I am. As a Hispanic woman, I’ve sometimes felt like there are expectations or limits placed on me, but instead of letting that hold me back, I use it as motivation to keep pushing forward. I want to show that those assumptions don’t define what I’m capable of achieving.

After graduation, I plan to attend UNM-Albuquerque, where I will major in radiologic sciences. My goal is to work in healthcare and give back to my community by helping improve the care people receive.

Looking back, I’m proud of how far I’ve come. This year challenged me, helped me grow and prepared me for what’s ahead. I’m excited to take that next step and continue building toward a future where I can make a meaningful impact.

PEÑASCO

Kaileb Atencio

GOING INTO MY SENIOR YEAR , I didn’t really think about how fast everything would go or how much I would take from it. Looking back now, this year has been one of the most important times in my life, not just because it’s my last year of high school, but because of everything I’ve been involved in and learned along the way.

I’ve always had a mix of interests. Sports have been a big part of my life, but I’ve also started to get into things like acting and graphic design. Graphic design surprised me the most because I didn’t think I would like it as much as I do. I like being able to create graphics on Adobe Photoshop,

and it expresses some of my creativity. Acting also interests me because it is something I always looked into and wanted to do during my freshman year.

This year I stayed really busy with sports. I did cross country, basketball, baseball, and track and field. Each sport helped me in a different way. Basketball was one of my biggest highlights because I earned All-District. That meant a lot to me because it showed my hard work paid off. Track was also important since I qualified for state, which is always one of my goals. Playing all these sports and keeping up with school was not always easy, but it taught me how to stay focused and manage my time better.

Outside of sports, I stayed involved at school and in my

community. I’m the president of National Honor Society, which helped me become a better leader. I learned how to take responsibility and help others. I’m also part of Big Brothers Big Sisters, where I try to be a good role model for my little. I help package food at the Blue Pantry when I can, and I work as a peer tutor at school. Being a tutor has been a good experience because I get to help other students learn what I’ve learned.

One moment I will never forget from this year was my final home basketball game. It was emotional because it was the last time I would play in that gym with my teammates. That game meant a lot to all of us. We ended up winning, and my final shot in that gym was a buzzer-beater. That made it even more special and is something I will always remember.

by the Committee to Elect Marietta Fambro, Jodi McGinnis Porter, Treasurer.

PATHS

Less Traveled

Local graduates carve creative, unconventional lives beyond the expected

Not every path after graduation follows a straight line — and for many Northern New Mexico graduates, that’s the point.

These feature stories highlight alumni who have built lives shaped by curiosity, risk and a willingness to try something different. From global travel and creative careers to science, agriculture and entrepreneurship, their journeys reflect the wide range of possibilities that can grow from small-town roots.

Each story is a reminder that there is no single way forward: and that sometimes, the most unexpected paths lead to the most meaningful destinations.

begins on page 22

By ELLEN MILLER-GOINS

JUMPING OFF from Angel Fire to Belgium

Gentry Haukebo has never been one to stay in one place for long — or keep both feet on the ground.

The 2016 Moreno Valley High School graduate, who grew up in Angel Fire, has built a life defined by movement, risk and curiosity — from shovel racing to solo travel across Asia to, yes, jumping out of an airplane.

Posting on Facebook about her skydiving adventure last summer, she wrote that it didn’t hurt “when I fell from heaven.”

That sense of adventure traces back to her childhood at Camp Elliott Barker Girl Scout Camp, where her father worked as a caretaker. Surrounded by mountains, horses and the rhythms of outdoor life, Haukebo learned early how to embrace the unexpected. Like the rest of her family, she was an avid skier and a champion shovel racer — a sport unique to Angel Fire that requires equal parts skill and fearlessness.

Now based in Ghent, Belgium, Haukebo lives in a city of cobblestone streets, canals and centuries-old architecture — a far cry from the forests and ski slopes of Angel Fire.

“It’s borderline opposite,” she said. The differences extend beyond scenery.

“There’s no green chile,” she said. “It’s an uphill battle all the time.” While she has embraced the

culture and architecture of her new home, the cuisine hasn’t quite measured up — a familiar complaint for New Mexicans living abroad.

After high school, Haukebo attended the University of New Mexico, earning a degree in business administration with a concentration in marketing and a minor in Spanish. Her career path took shape during a moment of global upheaval.

“COVID hit, and whether we wanted to or not, everything became digital,” she said.

She began working in digital marketing, rising from intern to account executive at an Albuquerque agency, developing campaigns and content strategies for a range of clients.

But a conventional career path never quite fit.

“I didn’t really know what I wanted to be when I grew up,” she said. “I just knew marketing was versatile.”

Then came what she jokingly calls her “quarter-life crisis.”

Instead of settling down, Haukebo quit her job, packed a bag and set off on a solo journey through Asia.

“I didn’t do it with this intention to change,” she said. “But I think that kind of just happens along the way. When you’re traveling, especially solo, you’re building trust with yourself. You’re making decisions every day, and it allows you to explore how you operate in the world.”

More no Valley grad builds a life

Today, she runs her own marketing business from Europe, working primarily with clients in New Mexico. Her projects include promoting music venues like Daleee KTAOS and events like the She Rises Music Festival in Taos.

“I love being able to still work with local businesses and small towns that I grew up in,” she said.

That connection to home remains central to her work. Rather than focusing on large corporations, Haukebo gravitates toward storytelling and community-based projects.

“It’s easy to be authentic when you’re working with real people and telling real stories,” she said.

Outside marketing, she continues to explore creative outlets. She has released music under the name 1oK and now describes her evolving sound as “Y’allternative” — a mix of folk, Americana and a hint of country.

Looking back, she credits Moreno Valley’s seminar-based approach with shaping her ability to think critically and communicate clearly.

“It teaches you how to ask questions and challenge your own thought processes,” she said.

For Haukebo, the through line — from Angel Fire to Belgium, from shovel racing to skydiving — is simple.

“I’m down for an adventure,” she said.

of creativity & adventure

2016 Moreno Valley High School graduate Gentry Haukebo

TAOS GRAD FINDS B A L on slopes & soil

Freeride skier builds a life that

Emma Page Patterson grew up on the Taos Mesa, where wide skies and open land shaped a life rooted in movement, curiosity and connection.

“The connection to the land, people, and water in Taos is what made me who I am,” Patterson said.

A 2015 Taos High School graduate, Patterson has built a path that defies easy definition. She has competed on the Freeride World Tour, coached skiing and mountain biking for the past decade, earned advanced degrees in biomedical engineering and now helps run her family’s Rio Lucero Farm in El Prado.

Her journey reflects a balance between high-level athletics and a return to the land — a combination she credits to her upbringing.

“As a kid on the mesa I didn’t need much to keep myself entertained,” she said. “The simple act of playing barefoot in the dirt was enough.”

Patterson began skiing as a toddler and developed her skills through the Taos Ski Team. Over time, she transitioned from alpine racing to freeride skiing, a shift that allowed her to bring creativity into the sport.

“Freeride skiing being a little more ‘free’ — I was able to bring my

unique creative input into skiing,” she said.

That creative approach helped propel her onto the global stage, where she competed against top athletes from around the world. Representing Taos became a point of pride.

“I have a lot of pride in representing the quiet, almost-unheard-of little-town of Taos on the global stage,” she said.

Competition at that level requires not only physical skill but mental focus. Patterson said she relies on grounding techniques tied to her childhood.

“I have to come back to the simplicity of my bare feet on the earth and the sunshine on my skin,” she said.

Alongside her athletic career, Patterson has spent the past decade coaching both skiing and mountain biking, drawing on her own experiences to help young athletes build confidence.

“If I can hold kids’ hands for even a minute of recognizing their capabilities then I’m paying it forward,” she said.

Her academic path followed a similarly rigorous track. Patterson studied biomechanics and physiology, earning advanced degrees in biomedical engineering.

“My scientific mindset carries me through every endeavor,” she said. After graduate school and work in a biomedical polymers laboratory, Patterson decided to return home.

“I realized I had no interest in being in a city, or sitting at a desk,” she said.

She now helps operate Rio Lucero Farm with her father, Doug Patterson. The farm focuses on regenerative agriculture and local food systems.

“Our mission is to bring a cyclical process to what we do: grow foods that give sustenance to both our community and back to the soil,” she said.

The farm continues to grow, with plans to open a Rio Lucero Farm Store in El Prado this June.

“Local food systems are paramount to a community,” she said.

Despite a recent hip surgery following a skiing accident, Patterson has not stepped away from athletics entirely.

“I’m not done with my professional athletic career,” she said.

Looking ahead, she encourages graduates to take risks and move forward with confidence.

“Take that first step — write the title of your essay, ask for that job and don’t be afraid to fail,” she said.

ANCE

blends elite athletics, science and regenerative farming

2015 Taos High School graduate Emma Page Patterson

TAOS HIGH SCHOOL ‘WHERE EDUCATION

Join the Taos Municipal District in congratulating the graduating Class of 2026 who will attend the following 27 institutions of higher education in 10 states. Harvard

EDUCATION MATTERS.’ Come Share The Experience!

Growing up in Questa, Jared Martinez did not imagine he would one day help lead engineering work on a spacecraft designed to carry astronauts hundreds of thousands of miles from Earth.

“I had fun growing up in a small town,” Martinez said. “The support you get from a community where everybody knows who you are … has proven to be unique and valuable.”

Martinez, a 2003 Questa High School graduate, now works as a team lead on the Orion spacecraft crew module for Lockheed Martin, the prime contractor for NASA’s Artemis program. His work focuses on the portion of the spacecraft where astronauts live and operate during deep space missions.

His path to that role did not begin with a singular focus on academic achievement.

“I wanted decent grades but I was never shooting to be the valedictorian,” Martinez said. “It wasn’t until I hit college that I really buckled down.”

At the University of New Mexico, Martinez first studied civil engineering after working for his uncle’s surveying company. Exposure to other disciplines shifted his direction.

“The more I explored mechanical and mechatronics engineering, the more I realized I had a much greater passion for those fields,” he said.

That shift led him into mechatronic engineering, which he described as a “full systems degree” that emphasizes understanding how complex components interact.

“At the end of the day, you have to understand the big picture,” Martinez said. “Everything is intertwined and connected.”

Martinez secured his start in aerospace through a co-op program with Lockheed Martin after handing out resumes at a university career fair. The company hired him while he was still in college and kept him on through graduation.

He expected to continue working in missile systems, but a change in direction brought him to Houston and into NASA’s Orion program.

“When they explained what I’d be working on and showed me the Apollo capsules and Mission Control, I knew this was something I couldn’t say no to,” Martinez said.

Since then, Martinez has spent more than a decade working on Orion, which has evolved into a central part of NASA’s Artemis missions — a program designed to return humans to the moon,

establish a long-term presence there and prepare for future missions to Mars.

The Artemis program has advanced through several key missions. Artemis I completed an un-crewed flight test in 2022. Artemis II, launched in April 2026, marked the first crewed test flight, sending four astronauts on a 10-day lunar flyby to evaluate life support and onboard systems. Artemis III, currently scheduled for 2027, aims to enable a crewed lunar landing.

“We are working to establish a consistent deep space vehicle architecture,” Martinez said. “We’ve been going to low Earth orbit for a while … but traveling 250,000-plus miles into deep space requires new technologies.”

Orion serves as the cornerstone of that effort. The spacecraft includes a European Service Module that provides power and propulsion, a launch abort system designed to protect astronauts during ascent and a heat shield capable of withstanding temperatures near 6,000 degrees Fahrenheit during reentry. After missions, the capsule returns to Earth with a splashdown in the Pacific Ocean, where U.S. Navy and NASA teams recover it.

As a team lead, Martinez spends much of his day solving problems and coordinating engineering efforts.

BUILDING THE SPACE C

for humanity’s next giant leap

2003 Questa High School graduate Jared Martinez

for humanity’s next giant leap

“Nothing is perfect in this world, so we’re always trying to solve problems,” he said. “At the same time, Artemis is an evolving vehicle where we are still adding new technologies.”

The Orion crew module presents unique challenges because it must sustain human life for extended periods in space.

“Safety and functionality are the two most important things,” Martinez said. “But beyond that, we have to design for oxygen, water, radiation protection, extreme temperatures — literally every factor you can think of.”

His role carries significant responsibility. As a certified principal engineer, Martinez helps oversee systems that astronauts rely on for survival.

“My confidence has grown with experience,” he said. “I also work with a lot of smart people, and it’s a lot of good, coordinated teamwork.”

Martinez said the Artemis program represents both exploration and competition on a global scale, with renewed international interest in space.

“It’s still a huge space race,” he said. “But these days it seems to be driven more by financial and economic reasons.”

Even with that complexity, Martinez said the work remains deeply rewarding.

“None of us can imagine doing anything cooler right now than what we’re doing,” he said.

Looking ahead, he said the most exciting moments come with each launch as the program moves forward.

“The plan is to have a launch basically every single year,” Martinez said. “From putting people back on the moon to eventually possibly going to Mars, the launches are always the most exciting part.”

For students in Northern New Mexico, Martinez offered straightforward advice: take action and seek experience.

“Do something. Anything,” he said. “That something might open doors to

things you don’t even know exist yet.”

He emphasized that work ethic and curiosity matter as much as academic performance.

“Companies more often than not hire the kid with experience and a lower GPA than the kid with no experience and a perfect GPA,” Martinez said.

Reflecting on his own journey, Martinez said he would tell his younger self to focus less on intention and more on action.

“Dreams are great, but they are pointless if you don’t take action,” he said. “Do it now.”

As Artemis continues to expand, Martinez said the motivation remains clear.

“It’s easy to stay motivated when you do something this important,” he said. “The idea of making history over and over again … it’s just fun.”

BRIDGES OPENS DOORS FOR CLASS OF 2026

Helping students find affordable paths beyond high school

BY ELLEN MILLER-GOINS

FOR MANY STUDENTS in the Class of 2026, the path after high school looks broader than ever, and local nonprofit Bridges Project for Education is helping make that possible.

Bridges, which has served Northern New Mexico since 1997, continues to grow its reach as more students seek guidance navigating college, vocational training and financial aid.

“We have students accepted to schools across the country … most of them with

really generous financial aid packages,” said Hannah Gunther, Bridges executive director. “And then we have plenty of students who are choosing to pursue their education closer to home.”

That range of options reflects a key shift: Students increasingly see multiple pathways as viable, whether that means a four-year university, a community college program or vocational certification.

But access to those options is not always straightforward.

Gunther said many students Bridges serves are the first in their families to pursue postsecondary education, which can make the process feel overwhelming.

“For students who may not have anyone to turn to in their family who has gone through the process … that is a big challenge,” she said.

Financial concerns also weigh heavily. Many students qualify for federal Pell Grants, which support those with significant financial need, but covering the full cost of college, including housing and food, remains a barrier.

Bridges works directly with students to break down those barriers.

The organization offers free, individualized counseling that guides students through every step of the process, from building college lists and writing application essays to completing financial aid forms and comparing offers.

“We have a ‘whatever it takes’ approach to counseling,” Gunther said. “It really is individualized.”

That support often continues after students enroll in a program, helping them navigate challenges, reapply for financial aid and stay on track.

Demand for those services continues to rise.

Bridges worked with 103 students two years ago, 140 the following year and 190 last school year. The program has already served about 195 students this year, with more expected before summer.

That growth reflects both increased outreach and a cultural shift among students.

“We are in the schools more than ever,” Gunther said. “Once they know who we are, they feel more comfortable continuing to work with us.”

The organization has also expanded programs such as its First-Gen Summer Institute, a three-day college prep experience held at New Mexico Highlands University. (This year’s is already full.)

For some students, that early exposure changes everything.

Gunther described one student who attended the summer institute, applied to a fly-in program at Colorado College and ultimately gained admission. Before that experience, the student believed attending a local college was the only affordable option.

“The fact that students have those choices … that’s what’s most important to us,” Gunther said.

Local scholarships play a critical role in expanding those choices. While state programs such as the New Mexico Lottery and Opportunity Scholarships help cover tuition, additional costs often remain. Community-based scholarships help fill those gaps and allow students to consider a wider range of schools.

“We are so lucky in New Mexico,” Gunther said. “But it’s not totally free college … and that’s where local scholarships make a big difference.”

For graduating seniors, Gunther offers simple advice: Take a chance.

“Don’t be afraid to take a chance on yourself,” she said. “Be proud of where you come from … and go do great things.”

For younger students, the message is just as clear: Start early.

“The earlier you start, the more options you have,” Gunther said.

Locals help students afford college and vocational training

Each year, businesses, families and organizations across the community offer scholarships based on a wide range of criteria, including academic achievement, community service, extracurricular involvement and career goals. More than $450,000 in local scholarships has been awarded to graduating seniors in recent years.

Common scholarship opportunities include:

• Centinel Bank Scholarship (late February deadline)

• Taos Community Foundation scholarships (early March deadline)

• Kit Carson Electric Scholarship (April deadline) Students are also eligible for:

• New Mexico Lottery Scholarship

• New Mexico Opportunity Scholarship

These statewide programs help cover tuition for students attending public colleges and universities in New Mexico.

Local scholarships often have smaller applicant pools than national programs, giving Taos-area students a better chance of receiving awards.

Applications typically require a Common Scholarship Application, transcripts, a résumé and a personal essay.

Bridges Project for Education offers free support to help students find scholarships, complete applications and understand financial aid packages.

26 Angel Valerio

Congratulations on your graduation Angel. You did it! You worked hard and we are so proud of you! Believe in yourself and you will accomplish all of your dreams. Remember that we will always be here for you. May God continue to guide you, protect you and bless you always.

Love you..

Mia L. Williams

Wishing our babygirl niece, sister, daughter, granddaughter Miss Mia Leigh Williams a huge congratulations on graduating from High School, Class of 2026! We are very proud of you and pray for continued blessings and adventure in your next chapter!

Love you lots!

Joaquin, you are amazing. Always remember the values you’ve been taught and where you come from!

We are beyond proud of your hard work, determination, and strength! Keep reaching for your goals and enjoy every moment this life has to offer.

Love you to the moon and back and beyond that! Love, Mom and Jason!

Grandma Julia, Dad Rick & family

TAOS

Joaquin Martinez

26 QUESTA

Miss

MILTON HS

Star t Means: ergar ten preparation al & emotional development guage, math & problem-solving skills por t for the whole family Give your future graduate the foundation they deserve!

Aaron Passino

Congratulations on all your achievements and I wish you all the success in the world! You have never let anything stop you and I can’t wait to see the rest of your life and what you accomplish next! I have never doubted you and will always continue to be there for you, front and center! I love you and am so very proud of you son! Here’s to the beginning of the rest of your life…go out and show them what you’re made of!

We love you, Mom, Danny and EZ

26 Nadija Kostich

Congratulations on your milestone and accomplishment! Above all else, thank you for being the good person that you are. You have remained true to yourself through all the challenges. The best is ahead!

Love from your mom and dad.

Estrella Rose Hope Casias

Congratz on this huge milestone! We love you Forever & Always. Reach past the Stars always.

Congratulations Auggie! Your hard work, dedication, and perseverance have truly paid off. We couldn’t be more proud of the young man you’ve become. As you step into this exciting new chapter, remember that your potential is limitless. Keep chasing your dreams and never stop believing in yourself. Here’s to your bright future—congratulations, son! We love you!

& Roman

Jesse Daniel Mead

“Whatever dramas are going on in my life, I always find that place inside my head where I see myself as the cleanest, tallest, strongest, wisest person that I can be”

- Layne Staley

Love, Ma

26 Keira Judith Jade Robinson

Congratulations, our sweet daughter. We are excited to see you accomplish all that you set your heart on. We are proud of the person you have become and are excited to see the great things you will do in this world. Always remember you have our love and support as you dive into new endeavors.

We love you, our Little Gift Everyday!

Mom

Teo, Ruth & Ava TAOS

With all our Love, Mom, Gramz, & Sissy

TAOS

Back left to right: Gael Dominguez, Celeste Trujillo, Gabriella Ortiz, Valeria Acosta Garcia, Ezekiel Ruiz, Claudio Romero

Front left to right: Andrea Suazo, Heni Patel, Adora Lopez, Geavanna Cordova, Aliyah Archuleta, Kayleigh Romero

Not Pictured: Mariah Gonzales, Kiara Medina, Daruis Trujillo

Congratulations on achieving this huge milestone! We couldn’t be more proud of you! Even more excited to see what you will do in the future, Evan!

From cheers to careersCammy is just getting started. We are beyond proud!

From the very beginning, you have brought so much joy into our lives, and watching you grow into the person that you are today has been one of our greatest joys. Your strength, resilience, determination and heart have carried you through every challenge and lifted you in your moments of success – and we cannot be more proud of who you have become. This is only the beginning.

Love, Mom and Dad

Congratulations Graduate! We love you with all of our hearts! The next path is yours to make but your family will always stand behind you and your ancestors will guide you forward.

Santi, watching you grow into the person you are today fills us all with pride and gratitude. Being parents to you and your brothers is the greatest blessing. As you step into this new chapter, remember your strength, faith, kindness, and curiosity will guide you. Embrace challenges, stay true to yourself, and never forget how deeply you are LOVED. We believe in your dreams. Go forward with confidence and hope, always knowing we are with you each day. With love, Mom,

This is only the beginning. Congratulations! We are so proud of you.

Love Mom, Dad, Colten, Grandma, Tia Lorraine, Aunt Pennie, and

of your family. Here for

Love Mom, Laylah, Rio & Camila VISTA RIDGE

Love you always, Mom, Peyton and Mikey

TAOS

Dad, and the best family ever!

TAOS

Congratulations Xavier!! We are very proud of you! The sky is the limit. Always remain humble and kind. May God continue to bless & guide you. Love Mom & Dad.

Sam, we are beyond proud of you for all of your achievements in your high school career. We have watched you grow from a boy full of promise into a man determined to reach your goals. We love you more than you know and are excited to see what the future brings.

SUMMER/FALL 2026 Find it in the June 4th issue.

You’ve always had your own voice, your own song, and your own light.

Now, as you step onto a brand-new stage and begin your next verse, let them hear your roar. We are so proud of you and excited for all that lies ahead.

All of our love, Mom & Dad

-Mom, Dad, Alicia and Daniel

ALL STARS

Top Athletes

TAOS BOYS

Judah Daffron — A national-level runner, this two-time state champion and last year’s athlete of the year signed his letter of intent to run for the United States Military Academy at West Point in New York.

Malakhai Ely —

A pivotal player in the Tigers’ state semifinal run in the winter of 2025, the senior center averaged a doubledouble this season with 16 points, 10.9 rebounds and 1.4 blocked shots per game. Ely ranked third in rebounding in New Mexico and 387th nationally, according to MaxPreps.

Roman Quintana —

Quintana played three sports throughout his four years of high school and contributed to successful seasons in football and basketball.

Saul Hernandez —

After an injury sidelined him his entire junior season, the defensive end and tackle averaged 1.3 tackles per game and recorded 64 tackles over three seasons. He also wrestled for

the Tigers and helped the team place at the regional meet in Tucumcari.

Evan Salazar — The Taos Tigers quarterback during their state semifinal appearance, Salazar also contributed to the Tigers’ basketball Final Four run against Highlands High School. He coaches his younger brother’s team in the Taos Youth Basketball League.

Mario Rodriguez — A two-sport athlete, Rodriguez played basketball and baseball for the Tigers. He played four years of baseball and helped the team reach a state Final Four appearance and win a district championship.

Brandon Mirabal — Signed as a cross-country runner for New Mexico Highlands University, the three-sport athlete contributed to the Tigers’ basketball Final Four run and competed in Taos’ cross-country and track programs.

Landyn Cisneros and David Vargas

Two multi-sport athletes who played for the Los

Alamos Hilltoppers 18U hockey team during its 2026 state championship run. The pair helped secure a 2-1 victory over El Paso in Santa Fe on March 1.

Nicholous Jones — Jones

anchored the 13-3 Taos Tigers soccer defense, served as an enforcer off the bench in basketball and contributed on the track team.

Max Maes and Reggie Suazo

— Both athletes placed

third at the state wrestling championships at the Rio Rancho Event Center on Feb. 20-21. They are also members of the Taos Tigers football team that reached the state semifinals.

Kira

TAOS GIRLS

Elaina Cisneros

— A standout runner, Cisneros placed fifth in the state cross-country meet this year, climbing seven spots from last season. She also competed in track and signed with Fort Lewis College in Colorado.

Kira MitchellArmstrong — One of Taos’ top field athletes, Mitchell-Armstrong qualified for discus and shot put in 2026. The then-junior placed fifth in shot put at last year’s state meet.

Isabella Lucero

— A three-sport athlete, Lucero delivered consistent performances in volleyball, basketball and softball. She helped the Lady Tigers secure a second consecutive district title as a setter.

Celina Shropshire — The defensive specialist for the Taos Lady Tigers volleyball team and a leader on the softball field, Shropshire averaged nearly five digs per set and handled 389 serve receptions this season.

Sierra Griego

— A volleyball player and swimmer, the senior helped both programs reach state competition in 2025. She led the Lady Tigers in kills with 3.1 per set and 242 total kills.

Isla Chavez — A swimmer and member of the Field Institute of Taos composite mountain bike team, Chavez helped the team to a sixth-place finish in state races in Colorado.

Faith Lovato, Camryn Ortiz and Braelyn Quintana — These seniors were All-American cheerleaders who represented New Mexico at the 2025 Pearl Harbor Memorial Parade in Hawaii on Dec. 7. The captains helped lead Taos cheer to its sixth state championship.

QUESTA BOYS

Noah Rael — Rael competed in all available sports at Questa and excelled in each. The senior led Taos County with 10 home runs last year and finished his career with 66 RBIs and 77 runs scored. He recorded 57 strikeouts this season and 136 over his career.

Diego Ortega — The junior played linebacker, guard and safety for the Wildcats and joined the baseball team this season. Ortega recorded 83 solo tackles and 43 assists, averaging 12.6 tackles per game. He also averaged two sacks per game.

Mitchell Armstrong

ALL STARS

Top Athletes

QUESTA BOYS

Juan Cisneros

— A multi-sport athlete, Cisneros played football and basketball and ran track. He rushed for 246 yards on 15 carries last fall and qualified for state track events.

Ricardo Leon Jr. — A five-year contributor to the Wildcats baseball

a .640 on-base percentage and struck out 209 batters during his career. The senior also recorded 74 RBIs and 70 runs.

Urijah Griego

— A leader in football and basketball, Griego played quarterback and point guard. The sophomore accounted for nearly 1,000 total yards this season and also joined the baseball

Adam Gordon

— One of four football team captains, Gordon rushed for 823 yards this season, averaging 106 yards per game with nine touchdowns and six conversions.

QUESTA GIRLS

Alyse Lovato

— The senior multi-sport athlete earned All-Star recognition from the New Mexico High School Coaches Association and averaged 16.9 points this season. She averaged 14.1 points, 6.6 rebounds, 4.1 steals and 1.6 assists per game

Ariana Medina

— A cheer team captain and member of the district champion Ladycats volleyball team, Medina contributed to four state championships for the Questa cheer program and led the team with 45 service aces.

Maliyah

Dominguez — A member of the Wildcats cheer team, Dominguez also played volleyball and basketball and runs track. The sophomore stepped into a larger role after an injury to become the team’s ball handler.

Aaliyah Piper

— A volleyball player and cheerleader, Piper helped the Ladycats win a district championship and contributed to the cheer program’s fourth state title in the same year.

Jocelyne Ortega — A girls basketball captain and cheer team member, Ortega helped the Wildcats secure their fourth state title and played libero for the district champion volleyball team.

Esperanza Vallejos — The junior led the Questa

volleyball team in multiple categories, including 168 kills and 162 total blocks.

PEÑASCO BOYS

Jeremiah R. Martinez — Martinez has been Peñasco’s top

boys runner for the past two years, competing at state in cross country and track. He placed fourth in the 1,600-meter race last year and was part of a state championship 4x800 meter relay team two years ago.

Kaileb Atencio

— A leader on and off the basketball court, Atencio scored 582 points this season and averaged four steals and four assists per game. He also competed in cross country and track.

Justin Pyne — A consistent hitter, defender and pitcher, Pyne batted above .500 this season and led the Panthers with 24 RBIs.

Andrew Archuleta — The eighth-grader recorded more than 30 runs on 28 hits and led the Panthers with a .877 slugging percentage.

Angelo Zamora — Zamora led the Panthers in rebounding with 6.9 per game and 192 total rebounds. He also averaged 12.3 points per game and competed in track.

Xavier Noll — A versatile player, Noll contributed as a catcher and across infield and outfield positions. He also competed in basketball, cross country and track.

PEÑASCO GIRLS

Rochelle Lopez

— The Lady Panthers’ leading basketball player, Lopez averaged 20.2 points per game and led the team in assists and blocks. She scored 2,084 career points.

Ashley Madrid — A three-sport athlete, Madrid earned all-district honors in volleyball and led the team with 5.1 digs per game. She also qualified for state track events.

Adelita Trujillo —

A freshman captain, Trujillo helped lead the Lady Panthers to a state quarterfinal appearance and averaged 6.2 rebounds per game.

Amy Muñoz —

A key member of the track and cross-country programs, Muñoz helped the 4x800 relay team place second at state.

Cambrie Gonzales — The eighth-grader finished eighth at the state crosscountry meet and also competed in track and basketball.

Katalina Atencio

— The sophomore captain averaged 5.9 steals and 6.8 rebounds per game and contributed as a setter in volleyball.

Adelita Trujillo

ATHLETE YEAR oF THE

Billy Romero Jr,

A running obsession

By BLYNN BELTRAN

was probably around fourth or fifth grade that I knew he would like running,” Taos cross country head coach Billy Romero Sr. said about his son. “We did a lot of hiking when he was younger, and he would run up and down the trails ahead of us.”

According to Romero Sr., he and his wife, Angela, often brought Billy Jr. along on hikes, where he would run ahead as far as he could while still hearing them. The son of two educators, Billy Romero Jr. has emerged as one of the top runners to come out of Taos. Romero Sr. said providing his son with the best possible training at his level is one of the biggest challenges.

“He played basketball and hockey, but he never gravitated to those sports,” Romero Sr. said. “It was about fifth or sixth grade when I introduced him to running, and I knew he had a natural ability. We are doing the best we can at his level, and he’s only gotten faster and stronger. He has been an all-state runner every year he’s run varsity, and that is a testament to his work ethic. There’s no fight. He practices every day. We don’t have to force him. Right now, it is Sunday on a windy day, and he is out there running. He is an athlete.”

The junior phenom runs up to 12 miles per workout and trains anywhere he can — at the track, in parks and around his neighborhood. As a freshman, Romero Jr.

finished as the state runner-up in cross country and earned AllAmerican honors the same year. As a sophomore, he broke multiple class records and aims to continue improving each year.

Angela Romero, a Taos Middle School track coach and Romero Jr.’s mother, said giving him space has been one of the most difficult parts of parenting a high-level athlete. At times, she said, she wishes he would socialize more instead of training so often.

“It can be difficult to give him the space to grow, because you get to know his friends too,” Romero said, echoing her husband’s comments about their son’s work ethic.

“I am proud of him during his big moments, but when I’m really proud of him is when he’s doing things by himself, like running in the snow, in situations where there is zero motivation,” she continued.

“Those are the days I am most proud of — when I have to go drop him off during a run, and I don’t want to.”

Romero Jr. aimed to claim the state title earlier this year but placed third with a time of 15 minutes, 54 seconds in November 2025. His parents said he had been dealing with a cold in the days leading up to the race, which affected his performance against Albuquerque Academy’s Nicholas Ponte and teammate Judah Daffron.

“He was upset for that state meet, but his mom and I were proud of

him as a student-athlete and to be a part of his journey,” Romero Sr. said. “He has personal time goals to hit, and the way he ran in California, that is definitely achievable.”

After this season, Romero Jr. appears poised to contend for a state championship in track, particularly in long-distance events. In preparation, he broke his own school record in the two-mile at the Arcadia Invitational in California, an invite-only meet featuring top athletes from across the Southwest.

Romero Jr. not only surpassed his previous mark and his teammate’s record, but also placed fourth in the 3,200-meter race in his division.

“Funnily enough, the two-mile record stood at 9:22, and Judah [Daffron] broke it with a 9:09. Then 10 minutes later, I ran the two-mile in 9:05,” Romero Jr. said.

Colleges have already begun recruiting Romero Jr., and he has met with several programs both in-state and out-of-state. He has not yet committed but hopes to set a standard for future Tigers before graduating.

“I think if I stay consistent and do my best every day, I think I’ll be able to get it,” Romero Jr. said. “I probably couldn’t have done this without the help of my parents, coaches, teammates and friends — especially my mom and dad. I wouldn’t have done any of this without their help.”

TAOS COUNTY

Top SPORTS MOMENTS

From championship grit to comeback victories, the 2025–26 sports year delivered no shortage of memorable moments. Local athletes and teams proved their resilience. Whether overcoming adversity, breaking records or rising to the biggest stages in New Mexico, the region’s sports programs showed depth and determination. These moments reflect not just wins and losses, but the dedication, teamwork and heart that define high school sports.

TAOS CHEER OVERCOMES TECHNICAL ISSUES FOR STATE TITLE

The Taos Tigers varsity cheer team captured its sixth consecutive state title — and did so under pressure.

During its game-day performance, the team experienced technical difficulties when the music cut out mid-routine. Despite the disruption, the Tigers stayed on count and completed the routine.

Taos scored a 91.8. The only team to top that score was Rio Rancho’s coed team, which posted a 93.3 in the 5A class. All-American and team captain Camryn Ortiz said the situation was unfamiliar.

“I thought it was really good considering that’s never happened to us before,” Ortiz said. “A lot of our younger girls pushed through, and they did excellently. We had already talked about it in the back, knowing that [technical difficulties] are a possibility. I think talking about it before definitely helped our outcome on the mat, so I thought everyone went through it well.”

The Tigers’ cheer-withmusic routine scored nearly 8 points higher than

runner-up Deming. Taos finished with 179.33 points, more than 10 points ahead. St. Pius placed third with 166.23.

Head coach Lisa AbeytaValerio said she was shaken when the music stopped but praised the team’s response.

“We did have some minor hiccups because of that, but other than that, they did exactly what they’ve been working on, so they did amazing,” AbeytaValerio said. “They’re ready. They’ve worked for 11 months, and they’re ready for it. So, I try to calm their nerves. A lot of positive affirmations. I just wanted to tell them that I am proud of them; they make me proud every single day.”

QUESTA CHEER CLAIMS FOURTH STATE TITLE

March 21 marked another milestone for the Questa Wildcats cheer team, which secured its fourth state championship.

Performing before a crowd of supporters at the Pit, the Wildcats posted an 86.1 in the game-day routine, topping a field of 15 teams. Their cheer-with-music routine later scored 78.97 for a combined 165.07.

The team featured nine graduating seniors, many of

whom competed in multiple sports. Sisters Janae and Maliyah Dominguez both competed in cheer and volleyball.

“It’s her last year,” Dominguez said. “So, I feel like getting to perform with her one last time before she goes to college, that’s my favorite part. Then, just being with the team because they’re like my second family.”

Senior Jocelyne Ortega said a mistake in the final routine did not diminish the experience.

“Honestly, everything was worth it. Even if we take second, third, or didn’t place,” Ortega said. “It would have been so worth it because we learned so much from each other. It’s a great experience. Even if you think that you can’t do the sport or you’re not good enough, it doesn’t matter because what really matters is who you are with and who you’re doing it for: each other.”

TAOS HOCKEY PLAYERS WIN STATE WITHOUT HOME ICE

After a 2024 fire at the Taos Youth and Family Center, Taos players Landyn Cisneros, David Vargas and Aiden Stow spent two seasons traveling and

practicing with other teams.

They joined the Los Alamos Hilltoppers 18U team in 2025 and helped lead the program to a state championship.

The Hilltoppers defeated the El Paso Rhinos 2-1 on March 1 at the Genoveva Chavez Community Center in Santa Fe.

TIGERS BOYS BASKETBALL REACHES SEMIFINALS

The Taos Tigers boys basketball team advanced to the state semifinals before falling 71-51 to Highlands High School.

Ranked fifth in Class 4A and 21st in New Mexico, Taos finished the season with a 25-6 record and a district championship.

The Tigers lost only one home game and recorded a 10-game winning streak. In the playoffs, Taos defeated St. Pius X 59-47 on March 7 and Del Norte 62-49 on March 11.

TIGERS FOOTBALL RALLIES PAST ALBUQUERQUE ACADEMY

Taos staged a comeback victory over Albuquerque Academy in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Nusenda Credit Union State Football

Championships on Nov. 14 at Anaya Field.

Trailing 17-3 at halftime, the Tigers outscored the Chargers 22-7 in the second half. The comeback included penalties that pushed the offense back as much as 50 yards.

Alejandro Ortega scored two touchdowns, including the game-tying reception.

“I wanted to get another round with my seniors. They carried me through a lot,” Ortega said. “The game was almost over, and we were down, and I just couldn’t let that happen. We were getting a lot of flags, but we came through in the end. Thank you, Theo, for making that final field goal!”

After a missed attempt and a penalty on the play, senior kicker Theo Blaustein converted the gamewinning field goal.

“I looked down, I saw the flag and I thanked my lucky stars,” Blaustein said. “Shout out to all the coaches, Coach Ramon, for coaching me all three years. I’ve been getting my reps, so I just put my head down and I sunk the kick. I love and appreciate my team. We’re a great squad. You just saw how we fought back in that game. Not many people believed in us, but we did.”

3 4 5

CISNEROS, MIRABAL SIGN TO RUN

Elaina Cisneros and Brandon Mirabal signed letters of intent to continue their running careers at the collegiate level.

Cisneros will attend Fort Lewis College in Colorado, while Mirabal will run for New Mexico Highlands University.

Mirabal said he plans to use his scholarship to pursue a degree in forestry and follow in his father’s footsteps. “My dad works in the [New Mexico Natural Resources Conservation Service], so that inspired me to work outside, and it seems like a good major for my interests,” Mirabal said. “I’d just like to thank my parents, teachers, teammates and coaches. They’re always there for me.”

Cisneros said she wants to pursue a degree in engineering because of her interest in STEM and her passion for helping individuals with disabilities:

“I just really like being in STEM, and I’ve struggled with dyslexia throughout school. I’d like to make adaptability tools and engineer ways to help people with disabilities.”

TAOS WRESTLERS PLACE AT STATE

Reggie Suazo and Max Maes each placed third in their weight classes at the state wrestling championships on Feb. 21 at the Rio Rancho Event Center.

“We just have to work our way back up third,” Suazo said. “I’ve seen the kids I’m going to wrestle, and I just have to give it all in the end. I would like to thank my teammates for their support. It’s been a good year for us.”

TIGERS SOCCER WINS 11 STRAIGHT

The Taos boys soccer team opened district play with an 11-1 win over Pojoaque Valley and extended its winning streak to 11 games.

Taos finished second in district with a 13-3 overall record.

KOSTICH RETURNS AFTER INJURY

After suffering a leg injury in August 2025, Nadija Kostich returned in time to compete at the district meet in Los Alamos on Oct. 31.

“At the beginning, I was really bummed because I didn’t think I was going to be able to run, but I thought I could still stay in it by supporting the team, and just showing up,” Kostich said.