Gary J. Montoya

The board discussed several topics, including financial matters, the status of a contract with a vendor, procurement procedures, and the request for additional information on budget items and merchandise expenses. The board also addressed concerns regarding a potential move to a cashless system, the status of district involvement with the New Mexico School Board Association, and ongoing state-level discussions concerning the potential implementation of a four-day school week. Additionally, the meeting highlighted the successful completion of the MC3 pre-apprenticeship program by students.

The meeting included the recognition of the district board for receiving the NMSBA region one attendance award, the naming of Isaiah Valdez as the Northwest Regional Athletic Director of the Year, and the celebration of the Kirtland Central High School JROTC Bronco Battalion for earning a gold star accreditation and placing in the top 5% of all JROTC units nationwide. Additionally, a parent provided a presentation on the experiences and achievements of the local robotics team at a recent international challenge held in Long Beach, California.

The board meeting addressed various administrative and operational items, including the rebranding of Career Prep High School and the disposal of property from Kirtland Central High School. The board considered participating in social media litigation, reviewed procurements over $60,000, and approved budget adjustments. Additionally, the meeting included recognition of student and staff achievements, reports on chronic absenteeism and financial disbursements, and action items regarding grant proposals for sensory rooms and pre-approval of the budget. An executive session was held to discuss collective bargaining and purchases subject to competitive sealed proposals, followed by a recommendation regarding propane services.

The board meeting featured a presentation on ongoing social media litigation. The discussion highlighted the negative impacts of social media platforms on student mental health, including issues such as addiction, anxiety, depression, and self-harm. Key points included the legal firm's efforts to hold social media corporations accountable for their algorithmic designs that prioritize profit over community safety, the importance of implementing guardrails for younger users, and the potential for financial recovery for school districts to address these challenges.

The work session meeting agenda includes reports on social media litigation, a review of the district anti-bullying policy, a Capturing Kids Hearts report, and EOY iMSSA and Amira assessment results. Additionally, the board will consider the rebranding of Career Prep High School, receive updates on gifted student programs and ASU partnerships, review a request from the Lower Valley Amateur Baseball Congress for facility use, consider a unique trip request for the UNITY 2026 National Conference, and address a disposal request for finance and operations. An executive session is also scheduled.