Albuquerque Public Schools
Awesome April Employees
This month's honorees include a community school impact coordinator, a budget technician, a counselor and a behavior redirector.
Albuquerque Public Schools is proud of the many dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to support students. Now in its eighth year, the Employee Recognition Program honors these outstanding staff members.
April’s Honorees
Elizabeth Gomez
Janet Jurado
Talia Sierra
Andrea Zamora
This recognition is made possible through the support of TIG and the APS Education Foundation, which partner each month to celebrate outstanding APS support staff. The honorees will be featured on APS electronic billboards around town and honored at a reception. They will also receive a lasting memento.
Elizabeth Gomez – Community School Impact Coordinator, Hodgin Elementary School
Elizabeth Gomez exemplifies what it means to lead through collaboration and connection as the community school impact coordinator at Hodgin Elementary School. Having served the school community for many years, Gomez has built meaningful relationships with families, staff and community partners. She creates opportunities for families and stakeholders to have a voice in shaping initiatives that support students and strengthen the school community.
Her nominator praised the way Gomez brings people together to create lasting partnerships. “She approaches her work with purpose, humility and a deep commitment to shared leadership.” Through initiatives such as developing the school’s Menu of Engagement with input from stakeholders, Gomez has helped foster trust and collaboration. Fellow coordinators also value her thoughtful perspective and willingness to share ideas and support others in the role, making her both a trusted colleague and a leader who strengthens the work of community schools across the district.
Janet Jurado – Budget Technician, Title I
Janet Jurado is known throughout the district for her positivity, professionalism, and willingness to help others succeed. As a budget technician in the Title I department, she regularly goes above and beyond to support school staff, particularly new secretaries who are learning the district’s financial systems. Whether answering questions or traveling to campuses to provide hands-on support, Jurado ensures schools have the knowledge they need to manage their budgets effectively.
Her nominator shared that Jurado makes a lasting impression on everyone she works with. “She never hesitates to help and she does it with kindness, patience and a smile.” Although assisting secretaries is not technically part of her job description, Jurado steps in because she understands how critical it is for schools to access their funding. Her commitment helps ensure students benefit from the resources their schools are entitled to receive.
Talia Sierra – Counselor, Los Ranchos Elementary School
At Los Ranchos Elementary School, Counselor Talia Sierra has made a profound difference in the lives of students and families by providing compassionate support during some of their most difficult moments. Through her work, she ensures students have the resources, encouragement and care they need to feel supported both inside and outside the classroom.
One parent shared the deep impact Sierra had on their family during a time of hardship. “This counselor has gone above and beyond for my family, making sure that my kids had clothing and hygiene. When we were hungry, she got us food boxes and every week sack lunches for the kids for the weekend.” Sierra checks in with students regularly and works tirelessly to connect families with essential resources, building trust and lasting relationships that help students feel safe, supported and valued at school.
Andrea Zamora – Behavior Redirector, Chaparral Elementary School
Andrea Zamora, known affectionately on campus as “Ms. Dre,” is a constant source of support for students and staff at Chaparral Elementary School. As a behavior redirector, she dedicates her time and energy to helping students develop social-emotional skills, build positive relationships and navigate challenging moments with confidence. She often spends her own time researching new strategies and approaches to better support students’ growth and well-being.
Her nominator praised the way Zamora builds meaningful connections across the campus community. “She treats everyone with love, kindness and respect.” Zamora regularly invites students to spend time in her room during lunch to work on communication and social-emotional learning activities, and plays an important role in organizing family engagement events. Balancing her work at school while raising two children, working a second job and pursuing her bachelor’s degree, Zamora’s dedication and determination truly make her a role model for the entire school community.
Nominate an APS employee who’s making a difference today! Learn more and submit your nominations on the APS Employee Recognition Program website.