An Albuquerque educator received recognition for inspiring learners inside and outside the classroom. She is Kristin Garletts, a teacher at Volcano Vista High School. The New Mexico Public Education Department officially named her the 2027 Teacher of the Year during an assembly on Friday.
The award celebrates Garletts’ significant contributions to her school, district, and community. It highlights her leadership and influence among educators at Albuquerque Public Schools and the entire state.
“Teaching is still a great career to get into,” Garletts said in a statement. “There’s so much good that we can do, and there are so many good things happening. … It’s our job to make them know that they can do anything they want to do.”
Garletts, National Board Certified Teacher, is a ninth-grade English language arts and journalism teacher. She creates a dynamic classroom that challenges students to meet high standards through critical thinking, analytical writing, and real-world activities. She is also known to build personal connections with her students.
Garletts supports multilingual learners, adapts instruction for students with disabilities, and mentors student journalists to produce meaningful stories. She fosters an inclusive environment where creative and analytical thinking can grow side by side.
“Kristin Garletts represents the very best of New Mexico’s educators: accomplished, innovative and deeply committed to every student she serves,” said Public Education Secretary Mariana Padilla.
The PED chief said Garletts empowers students to find their voices, supports her colleagues, and leads with humility and service. She will represent New Mexico’s teachers in 2027.
APS Superintendent Gabriella Durán Blakey, for her part, said the district is thrilled to see Garletts named Teacher of the Year.
“Kristin is an amazing teacher who goes out of her way to connect with students,” she said.
Garletts’ Journey as an Educator
At school, Garletts leads technology initiatives and supports her fellow teachers to enhance their digital teaching skills. She provides tailored professional development and one-on-one coaching as she helps them integrate digital tools into their daily lessons.
“Her leadership is characterized by humility and service, and she empowers both students and educators to become confident, creative and lifelong learners,” Volcano Vista High School Principal Melissa Sedillo said.
Garletts’ award highlights her 20-year career across a wide range of roles in education.
Over the past 20 years, she has worked as an English and English language development teacher, school librarian, and literacy mentor. She also served as a program coordinator, professional learning community leader, and technology support specialist.
Garletts hold state endorsements in language arts, reading, teaching English to speakers of other languages (TESOL), and library media sciences.
Garletts studied at Northern Arizona University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in English education. She graduated summa cum laude.
About the New Mexico Teacher of the Year Program
The New Mexico Teacher of the Year program began in 1963. Each year, it invites school districts and charter schools across the state to nominate outstanding educators and celebrate excellence in teaching.
The New Mexico Oil and Gas Association sponsors the program and provides funding for recipient’s travel and professional development. The awardees serve as ambassadors for public education.
