Have you heard about jewelry classes? A jewelry program has been shining at Albuquerque High School (AHS) for more than 50 years. Five years ago, an artist couple transformed it into the AHS Jewelry Uplift Program, inspiring students to explore jewelry-making further.
Art instructor Lisa Gillett has taught at AHS for 24 years and currently leads five jewelry classes. Together with her partner, fellow artist Edward Donato, she co-founded the Jewelry Uplift Program to enhance the jewelry-making class experience. “We transformed the jewelry room to improve efficiency, productivity and safety,” Gillett said.
The AHS Jewelry Uplift Program gives students time to explore their individual interests. It fosters engagement by encouraging student-led exploration, personalized learning and real-world connections.
“Students who participate in the AHS Jewelry Uplift Program have developed a strong sense of creative identity and self-belief,” Gillett said. “Many report that jewelry serves as a vital outlet for self-expression, allowing them to channel their creativity into tangible work.”
“We’re also connecting students with job opportunities in the jewelry industry,” she added. “Students have secured positions with professional jewelers and watch technicians, gaining hands-on experience and career direction while still in high school.”
Jewelry Classes for All Ages
Students of all ages can also take community classes through the Jewelry Uplift Program.
“I’m drawn to the idea of taking jewelry making beyond the school week schedule,” Gillett said. “That’s one of the reasons why Eddie and I started offering free multigenerational community classes on Saturdays.”
“It’s vital that high school students also become the teachers,” continued Gillett. “Some of my high school jewelry students volunteer during the weekend Jewelry Uplift Community Classes. Lapis Esquivel, a student who volunteers with JUCC, said, ‘I wanted to help others learn about making jewelry and to have more time to work.’”
Honoring the Program’s Roots
In 2025, the New Mexico Art Education Association named Gillett New Mexico Art Educator of the Year. She quickly credited the origins of the AHS jewelry program.
“The AHS jewelry program has been shining for decades,” Gillett said. “It was started by my mentor, Barbara Schwyzer, over 50 years ago. As the long-time jewelry-making instructor at Albuquerque High School, she established a legacy in teaching jewelry arts in New Mexico.”