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School’s Fiery Tradition Ends in Settlement After Student Hurt in Blaze

Juan Oliveros
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School’s Fiery Tradition Ends in Settlement After Student Hurt in Blaze

A charter school has agreed to pay a six-figure settlement for over five years, putting an end to a lawsuit filed after a 2024 Zozobra-style burn left a student seriously injured.

The Academy for Technology and the Classics agreed to pay about $39,941.75 every year for five years to the daughter of Jerome and Ambra Baca. The charter school decided on a virtual settlement hearing on Wednesday in the state District Court. Payments will commence four years from now when the child turns 18.

The case stemmed from an August 30, 2024 school event in Santa Fe. During the event, a 15-foot effigy modeled after “Old Man Gloom” was burned on campus, hours before the well-known annual Zozobra at Fort Marcy Park.

In a lawsuit filed in April 2025, the Bacas held the school responsible after their 12-year-old daughter suffered second-degree burns, permanent scarring, and post-traumatic stress disorder in a sudden flare-up during the event. The complaint alleged “a large flash of fire and flame” burned the girl’s hair, ear, chest, neck, left arm, and hand.

The lawsuit described a series of alleged safety lapses. It alleged that the school failed to secure a burn permit and did not place fire suppression equipment near the effigy. It also alleged that the respondent allowed a ninth-grade student to handle accelerants, lighters, and fireworks to ignite the structure in the absence of adult supervision.

According to the Bacas, the incident turned from bad to worse when the student poured a liquid accelerant from a gallon container onto the burning effigy. The act had triggered the flash that injured the girl and others nearby.

The complaint said the victim suffered injuries that caused her significant pain, emotional distress, and ongoing medical needs. It sought damages and costs for the court to determine during the trial.

Jason Morgan, principal of the Academy for Technology and the Classics, did not respond to requests for comment when the complainants filed the lawsuit.

The settlement brought the case to a close without a trial.

Fire Danger Now Up Due to High Winds and Dry Air

Ruben Reyes
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Fire Danger Now Up Due to High Winds and Dry Air

Possibility of fire weather will spread across much of New Mexico on Friday as winds gust up to 35 to 45 mph and dry conditions continues statewide.

Dry weather will continue across most of New Mexico for the next several days as winds will increase Thursday and Friday, and fire weather watches are in effect for much of eastern New Mexico Friday afternoon.

The Hazardous crosswinds will create difficult travel to large and high-profile vehicles Wednesday afternoon, Thursday, and Friday, mainly across eastern New Mexico.

Critical fire weather threatening rapid fire spread from any new spark returns to New Mexico Wednesday and Thursday, mainly across northeastern and east-central New Mexico, and majority of the state on Friday.

Meanwhile, a cold front will move southeast across the state on Friday. Forecasters say there may be some light snow showers in the north mountains near the Colorado border, but otherwise, the conditions will stay dry.

Also, a colder Friday will be experience in Northern New Mexico as hard freeze is forecasted Friday night into Saturday morning across the western and northern third of New Mexico.

The Albuquerque area could drop into the upper 20s and 30s on Saturday morning.

Forecasters urge people to protect early blooming plants.

For the rest of the weekend looks mainly sunny as temperature continu eto warm into early next week.

STI Rates Decline during Awareness Week 2026

Victoria Padilla
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STI Rates Decline during Awareness Week 2026

The STI Rates Decline during Awareness Week 2026. Public health professionals in New Mexico reported an abrupt drop in sexually transmitted infections.

Infections in question are syphilis, congenital syphilis, chlamydia, and gonorrhea, which declined from 2024 to 2025.

The incidence of syphilis declined by 18.6%, with congenital syphilis falling by 32.4%. The findings were presented during STI Awareness Week 2026, using the data from New Mexico.

The STI decline in New Mexico, authorities explained, was due to concerns about rising rates in previous years.

Moreover, effective communication and prevention measures increased community awareness and encouraged testing. Consistent funding and open communication also help improve health care facilities.

Clarity in funding helped create effective public health programs. This has enhanced resources in communities and increased partnerships between healthcare providers.

According to officials, the STI decline in New Mexico, clarity in funding helped keep people informed about resources to save lives.

Finally, communication and preventive measures will continue to ensure accountability and safety within communities. Findings from STI Awareness Week 2026 demonstrate the importance of funding and resource distribution within communities to improve health outcomes.

Emergency Radio Network Fully Funded to Support First Responders Statewide

Victoria Padilla
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Emergency Radio Network Fully Funded to Support First Responders Statewide

Emergency Radio Network Funding 2026 emphasizes financial support for the emergency system used by first responders. In essence, the emphasis lies on reliability, transparency, and public safety.

The board affirmed that the financing for the emergency radio system is complete. With such a move, the system is assured of uninterrupted performance, improved coverage, and up-to-date technology for the emergency team.

The emergency teams depend on the radio system to respond effectively. With adequate funding for the system, improvements in efficiency will be achieved, thereby enhancing public safety.

Maintenance and upgrades of the system are guaranteed through financing. Such transparency aims to inform the public about funds dedicated to public safety.

It is worth noting that the board’s decision is part of efforts to prepare for emergencies. Effective communication systems are important for ensuring community security.

It is worth noting that transparency in resource use promotes accountability. These efforts shall play an important role in shaping how emergencies are dealt with in New Mexico in the future.

Authority Granted to Regulate PFAS Firefighting Foam for Environmental Safety

Victoria Padilla
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Authority Granted to Regulate PFAS Firefighting Foam for Environmental Safety

This document emphasizes a board ruling that authorizes the regulation of foams containing PFAS chemicals. There is emphasis on environmental safety, disclosure, and health.

The board recognized foams with PFAS chemicals as hazardous waste. This permission enables the regulator to limit the use of the chemicals, impose remediation requirements whenever facilities use the foams, and require facilities to record stock storage.

PFAS chemicals are nicknamed “forever chemicals” because they persist in soils and water over time. In that case, exposure to these chemicals can cause diseases like cancer. Thus, regulating these foams as hazardous waste helps keep communities free from contamination.

This revelation from the PFAS Firefighting Foam Regulation provides regulators and the community with a broader understanding of the hazards posed by these chemicals and potential measures to mitigate them. Accordingly, authorities oblige polluters to implement cleanup processes.

Additionally, this regulation serves as a guideline for environmental sustainability. Also, the rule aligns with various acts that prohibit the inclusion of PFAS chemicals in consumer products and necessitate labeling.

Lastly, the PFAS Firefighting Foam Regulation 2026 report emphasizes the importance of financial and environmental accountability for residents’ understanding of resource allocation.

A Rise in Childhood Obesity Has Been Seen in the State – Report says

Ruben Reyes
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A Rise in Childhood Obesity Has Been Seen in the State – Report says

A report from the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) shows a gradual progress with childhood obesity in the state.

This findings highlights the need of the department for a sustainable investment in children’s health and physical activity.

The data was obtained from nearly 4,600 students at 49 schools across 15 counties in the fall of 2025 and found obesity rate on kindergarteners rose from 17.3% to 18.6%.

Meanwhile, the obesity rate among third graders increased from 24.1 to 26.7% and boys’ obesity rate were 5.4% higher than girls.

According to Gina DeBlassie, cabinet secretary for the NMDOH, obesity is a complex, serious public health concern with multiple contributing factors such as poverty.

“Obesity is a complex, serious public health concern with multiple contributing factors, including poverty, food insecurity, and a lack of infrastructure for safe physical activity,” she said.

She reassures New Mexicans that NMDOH continues its investments in developing a healthy eating and activity habits in early childhood and elementary school.

“A trend we see is obesity rates rising significantly between kindergarten and third grade, which is why NMDOH continues to invest in developing healthy eating and activity habits in early childhood and elementary school.” she added.

NMDOH’s Obesity, Nutrition, and Physical Activity Program and its Healthy Kids, Healthy Communities program work with schools and communities statewide to expand access to healthy food and safe physical activity.

Initiatives include school and community gardens, farmers’ markets, and safe walking and biking routes.

Freshman Academies Shifts High School Experience, Aims to Make Students Feel Valued

Gregg Morgan
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Freshman Academies Shifts High School Experience, Aims to Make Students Feel Valued

Have you heard of a team-based learning model designed to reduce isolation and make education more relevant? Three campuses in Albuquerque Public Schools (APS) are using this approach, and it is showing positive outcomes.

APS officials, educators and students gathered on Wednesday to showcase the district’s Freshman Academies. The initiative shifts ninth graders away from traditional classroom models toward team-based, career-oriented environments. 

The event was held at the Berna Facio Professional Development Complex. It highlighted the early results of the program currently operating at Cibola, Highland and Manzano high schools. District leaders also announced plans to expand the initiative to six additional high schools next year.

Superintendent Gabriella Blakey said the program addresses the need to make high school more relevant. During campus visits last year, she saw traditional classrooms with disengaged students seated in rows like in “The Breakfast Club.”

“We start with our ninth graders and intentionally design a different experience for them from day one,” Blakey said. “One that builds connection, provides support, and helps students see their clear path forward after high school.”

The academies reorganize the freshman year into themed pathways and advisory structures. Students work in interdisciplinary teams supported by dedicated teachers instead of moving through the school day in isolation. It’s part of a larger initiative called the Academies of Albuquerque. The effort strives to reshape high schools to better prepare students for the world they will encounter after graduation. 

How Freshman Academies Impact Students

Brooke Meisner, a student of Manzano High School, said Freshman Academies has made a large public school feel more like a small school. It also maintains the benefits of a comprehensive campus, including sports and clubs.

“The transition to high school is hard,” Meisner said. “Now, I feel like there’s a lot of kids who might not have made it through freshman year… but they’re not gonna drop out because the teachers are like, ‘Hey, we’re here to support you.’”

Faculty collaboration is a key component of the model. Teachers at the showcase reported meeting regularly to track student performance, attendance, and social-emotional well-being.

Ann Paulls-Neal, a teacher at Highland High School, said the structure breaks down professional isolation. 

“It’s the first time we’ve really had that cross-curricular time to meet,” she said. “I’m definitely more in line with what other teachers are teaching.”

Early data from the three trailblazer schools indicates the approach is working. Manzano High School teacher Kelly Dutro reported significant gains in attendance.

“They’re showing up, which is new,” Dutro said. “Because they know that we care… we’re able to also build those relationships because they’re here.”

Early Exposure to Career Pathways

Beyond improving attendance, the program aims to help students identify career interests early. Through themed pathways like arts, innovation, and culinary programs, the initiative encourages students to see real-world coursework applications. 

Cibola High School Principal Kimberly Finke said the goal is to shift student’s mindset. She wants them to move from asking “why do I need to know this?” to seeing how education connects to their future. 

APS is also working with community partners. Officials credited the United Way of North Central New Mexico for supporting the program’s development.

While school leaders acknowledged some “growing pains” in launching the new model, they voiced optimism about its trajectory.

“When students feel seen, supported, and valued, everything changes,” Finke said. “They show up, they engage, they begin to believe in themselves, and in what is possible.”

‘Learning by Doing’ Essential for Students: Sen. Martin Heinrich Reintroduces Measure at Polk

Gregg Morgan
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‘Learning by Doing’ Essential for Students: Sen. Martin Heinrich Reintroduces Measure at Polk

Learning goes beyond reading and writing, as students can gain valuable knowledge outside the classroom. This is what U.S. Sen. Martin Heinrich continues to advocate for. 

Heinrich announced the reintroduction of the Revitalizing America’s Schoolyards Act on Thursday at Polk Academy of Agricultural Science. The measure seeks to equip schools nationwide with resources to transform traditional asphalt playgrounds. It aims to turn them into living, learning ecosystems like the one thriving in Albuquerque’s South Valley.

Polk provided the setting for Heinrich’s announcement. The middle school is part of Albuquerque Public Schools’ Sustaining the Future magnet program. 

Sustaining the Future is a K–12 environmental STEM pathway that teaches students to care for land, water and the environment. It also helps them explore real-world solutions and future careers.

Student leaders led the senator through Polk’s Jardin de Los Sueños, or Garden of Dreams. They showcased a STEAM lab with aquaponic and hydroponic systems and an orchard with 40 fruit trees planted last year.

Why Outdoor Learning Matters

Student Alllyson Bojorquez stressed the mental health benefits of outdoor learning spaces.

“Students work hard on the farm, but they also get to walk around, enjoy themselves, talk with friends, and just have time to enjoy the space and help improve our mental health,” she said. 

Heintrich explained why he chose Polk as the venue for the reintroduction of the legislation. He said the school exemplifies what he wants the norm in school campuses nationwide, not the exception. The senator reflected on his education, noting the contrast between his “packed dirt and concrete” youth and Polk’s interactive environment.

Heinrich, who began his career running outdoor education programs, emphasized landscapes support mental health and diverse learning styles. 

“We know that some of the kids who were the most challenged to sit at their desk and focus, in that environment, just absolutely thrive,” he said.

The proposed Act would fund the conversion of school grounds into spaces that clean the air and provide organic food. It would also support  “learning by doing” opportunities.

Why Polk Serves as a Model

At Polk, leaders have already deeply ingrained this philosophy. Principal Ben Bustos describes the campus not as an extension of the classroom, but as the classroom itself.

“Rooted in our community’s farming and ranching traditions, our students learn by doing,” Bustos said. “Whether it’s working in the garden, studying soil health, or understanding water systems through our acequia and community partnerships.”

Teacher Travis McKenzie highlighted the cultural significance of the program. He noted that the Living Schoolyards Act presents an opportunity to scale Polk’s success across the state. 

McKenzie announced a new partnership with the Middle Rio Grande Conservancy District to build acequia infrastructure on campus. The initiative allows students to learn firsthand about water rights and traditional flood irrigation.

“We want to cultivate the next generation of water warriors,” he said.

Also speaking at the event were Gael Torres and Rosita Moreno. Torres highlighted the school’s transformation and its improved reputation driven by the agricultural program.

“Our school environment is very different from other schools,” Torres said. “… We have the opportunity to include outdoor learning into our classes. It’s amazing how we are all able to get together and maintain the garden.”

Closing in Spanish, Moreno emphasized that the work at Polk is about more than green spaces. She said it is about cultivating local, healthy products, and forming the leaders of tomorrow.

Active Shooter Suspect Now in Custody in Bernalillo

Ruben Reyes
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Active Shooter Suspect Now in Custody in Bernalillo

Editor’s Note: This is a follow-up article for you. If you would like to find out more about the first article, you can click here.

Police have taken one of the suspects in the Bernalillo active shooter case into custody, following the report on Tuesday, April 14.

Bernalillo Police say officers were dispatched to Highway 550 after a caller reported someone was shooting at their car.

“A foot pursuit ensued. They were trying to locate the subject. He ran north of the Downtown Rail Runner, 550 Rail Runner station. They encountered him just behind the high school in a ditch area. At that time, there was gunfire that was exchanged. The male subject did display a firearm—and they did have shots fired,” Bernalillo Police Chief Chris Stoyell said.

“He did shoot at the officers. We’re going to handle the road rage incident but State Police will handle the officer involved shooting. No officers were injured.” Stoyell added.

The situation escalated when the suspect pointed a gun at officers. Officers then fired their weapons at the suspect.

According to the Bernalillo Police District (BPD), the suspect is in his mid-50s.

New Mexico State Police are now investigating the shooting that involved police officers.

Authorities lifted the shelter-in-place. Bernalillo Public Schools will remain closed on Tuesday, April 14.

The incident occurred when students and staff were not on the grounds.

Police charged the suspect with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and shooting at or from a motor vehicle.

Governor Fundraising Transparency Report 2026

Victoria Padilla
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Governor Fundraising Transparency Report 2026

The New Mexico Governor Fundraising 2026 report outlines the funds raised and spent by candidates before the upcoming June 2 primary elections. The report focuses on transparency and community impact rather than politics.

Deb Haaland has raised $4.1 million in the past six months. Her campaign’s total donations have surpassed $11 million. Such fundraising demonstrates active participation from donors and community members.

Sam Bregman has raised roughly $1.1 million during the same period. Sam Bregman’s total fundraising has reached around $4 million. The disparity in fundraising is indicative of how money can affect outreach efforts across the state.

Collectively, the candidates have spent around $10 million on outreach activities and administrative costs. More fundraising enables candidates to hire additional staff, run advertising, and engage in community activities; however, less fundraising limits candidates’ ability to expand their campaigns.

Republican candidates’ fundraising results were also included in the report. Notably, there has been greater financial activity in the Democratic Party primary race.

The New Mexico Governor Fundraising 2026 report illustrates the importance of financial transparency for better insight into how communities use resources. Prior to the June 2 primary election, such financial investments will determine outreach programs.

Republican candidates’ fundraising efforts are lower. It is noted that Democrats have seen greater fundraising activity.

This difference in resources clearly reflects how money influences outreach efforts. The effect would show in the run-up to the June 2 primary.

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