School Spotlight: NMANS Director Tours Albuquerque's Private Education Landscape

November 2024 School Visits

Dear NMANS Members and Friends,

What a privilege it was to visit a variety of private schools in Albuquerque last month. I was truly impressed by the family atmosphere within each community and left each school realizing that those who work in private education are genuinely called to this vocation. Their commitment goes far beyond a mere job. I know this is true for each of you, and I look forward to learning about your important work in your communities.

While each school is unique, their cultures were clearly shaped by student-focused priorities and a holistic approach to education. The independence of private schools allows them to make decisions that benefit their families, making every visit feel like a homecoming.

Some of the schools I visited also shared common challenges. Below is a list of illustrative questions that were discussed, though it is not exhaustive:

• How do we appropriately compensate our staff when so much of our income is based on tuition?
• How can New Mexico do more to support private school options for families?
• How can we learn from and support each other by finding out what other private schools are doing?
• Are there professional development opportunities that might benefit smaller schools?
• Could larger private schools advocate for smaller ones by joining forces with organizations like NMANS?
• How do state-funded preschools operate in a private school setting?

I want to thank the leaders of these schools for their dedication, and I look forward to visiting more of your institutions. I also welcome your feedback on how NMANS can better serve you. Look for a short survey to be sent out next week.

School Snapshots

Gospel Light Baptist Academy

• Location: Rio Rancho
• Students: 215
• Head of School: Mark Lenentine
• Email: mlenentine@gospellightbaptist.org

Mark Lenentine's commitment to private education is evident. Gospel Light Academy, a ministry of Gospel Light Baptist Church, is accredited by COGNIA, which works with public, charter, and private schools. Mark speaks highly of their accreditation process as he strives to provide an excellent education that addresses the whole child.

Describing itself as a traditional Christian school, Gospel Light Academy offers solid academic instruction alongside a wide variety of fine arts and athletic opportunities. During my visit, I saw students engaged in art classes and receiving cello instruction. The school ensures that students can participate in athletic and fine arts competitions through various creative means. Check out one of their fine arts endeavors featuring musicians along the Rio Grande River on YouTube.

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Pathway Academy

• Students: 24
• Head of School: Jim Hering
• Email: jim@pathwaysacademynm.org

Founded in 2003 by a parent of a special needs student, Pathways Academy was created to provide a nurturing environment for students who struggle in traditional educational settings.

Two decades later, the academy continues to serve students with special needs, emphasizing individual attention by limiting enrollment to 24 students. While some families use Pathways for parts of their K-12 experience, others have their entire education there. The caring staff provides adaptive technology, furniture, sensory activities, and therapies, fostering a strong sense of community. Whether students are diagnosed with autism, Down syndrome, or severe dyslexia, there is a place for them at this hidden gem.

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Salam Academy

• Students: 128
• Head of School: Fedah Mansour
• Email: fedah.abdelhack@salamacademy.org

Salam Academy is the only private school in Albuquerque dedicated to students of the Islamic faith. Fedah Mansour, the principal for three years, leads the school, which operates in a converted office complex for K-12 students.

Her love for her students is evident; she knows each of their families and their nationalities, which include Palestine, Lebanon, Iraq, Somalia, Nigeria, Jordan, Egypt, Syria, Morocco, and the United States. Older students take on leadership roles by assisting in PE classes for younger students. The school teaches both Arabic and English, and has creatively supported families who cannot pay full tuition.

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Sunset Schools, Inc.

• Students: 338
• Head of School: Alan Mask
• Email: alan.mask@sunset-mesa.com

Sunset Mesa Schools is a locally owned private school which has both a Pre K campus and a K-5 campus and has been operating in Albuquerque since 1948. Several families have owned the school over the years, and all have had a passion for high standards of academic excellence.

Besides degreed and experienced classroom teachers, six full time specialists provide instruction in music, art, library, Spanish, technology, and physical education. The two campuses are beautifully arranged and varied with many opportunities for being outdoors for all ages. An amazing setting for learning!

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Calvary Christian School

• Students: 162
• Head of School: Kimberly Cordova
• Email: kcordova@calvarychristianabq.com
• Location: Calvary Chapel East

Kimberly Cordova leads an outstanding Pre-K to 12 program at Calvary Christian School, serving 162 students.

In addition to a solid academic foundation, students develop leadership skills through tech, music, and chapel activities. Each division has dedicated spaces for large group gatherings, and students enjoy numerous opportunities in fine arts and athletics.

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Immanuel Lutheran Christian School

• Students: 61
• Head of School: Kevin Dunning
• Email: principal@immanuelabq.org

Kevin Dunning, in his third year as principal, leads Immanuel Lutheran Christian School, which recently celebrated its 100th anniversary. The K-8 school upholds many traditions.

Tile displays honor its graduates and a veterans wall commemorates those connected to the school. The school offers a rich array of classes, including Spanish, music, and PE, along with many community service opportunities. Despite challenges posed by changes in the surrounding neighborhood, the school remains steadfast in its mission.

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Western Heights Learning Center

• Head of School: Melissa Padilla
• Email: melissa.padilla@westernheightsabq.org

Founded by Melissa Padilla and Chrissy Franklin's grandmother, Western Heights Learning Center began as a licensed early childhood program to meet community childcare needs. Now serving 130 students, 86% of whom are Hispanic and 76% from families below the poverty line, the school has a profound impact on the community.

Many staff members are graduates of Western, which started in 1968. In addition to serving Pre-K through grade 8, the school has a Home Visiting Department which conducts home visits for families with infants or those seeking parenting information. The joy and dedication of Melissa and their staff is contagious as they all work together to serve their community.

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National School Choice Week

National School Choice Week is scheduled for January 26-February 1, 2025. Imagine if every private school in New Mexico reached out to their local media during this week to showcase their achievements. Start planning how you will celebrate this with your community. You have an amazing story to tell!