Celebrating Excellence: March Employees of the Month

This month's honorees include a librarian, an assistant principal, a head custodian and a school police officer.

Albuquerque Public Schools is proud of the many dedicated professionals who work tirelessly to support students. Now in its seventh year, the Employee Recognition Program honors some of these outstanding staff members. 

March’s Honorees

• Chelsea Darrall 
• Santino Hernandez 
• Eric Romero 
• Richard Villones 

The honorees are being featured on APS electronic billboards around town and will be honored at a reception. They also will receive a lasting memento.

Nominate an APS employee! 

Chelsea Darrall – Librarian, Double Eagle Elementary

Chelsea Darrall transforms the library into a magical place for students, making it both an exciting learning space and a warm, inviting refuge. She brings creativity to everything she does, from organizing events like the Stuffie Sleepover and Caldecott Book Tasting to designing cozy reading nooks with themes like "Meow Wolf" and "Eagle Joe’s."

Beyond fostering a love for reading, Darrall plays a vital role in student well-being. She knows all 530 students by name and makes every child feel seen and supported. One student summed it up best: “She’s one of those teachers you just feel like you can talk to.” Darrall’s dedication extends to staff as well—this year, she co-led the implementation of the Character Strong SEL program, making an impact far beyond the library walls.

Santino Hernandez – Assistant Principal, West Mesa High School

Santino Hernandez is the definition of dedication. Whether staying late to support staff, connecting with students, or handling everything from facilities to curriculum, he gives his all to the school. Though originally hired as the facilities assistant principal, he remained when the administration shifted, stepping into the curriculum role while continuing to support every aspect of campus life.

Hernandez never hesitates to jump in where he's needed, even when it’s not in his job description. Staff joke that he does "everything" on campus, and his passion for making West Mesa a better place is undeniable. His hidden talent for photography captures the school’s spirit, and his leadership makes a lasting impact on students and staff alike.

Eric Romero – Head Custodian, Chaparral Elementary School

For more than two decades, Eric Romero has been a cornerstone of Chaparral Elementary, ensuring a clean, safe and welcoming environment for students and staff. But his contributions go far beyond custodial work.

Romero has taken special needs students under his wing, mentoring them and teaching them practical life skills. He assists with recess, crosswalk duty and morning supervision, always putting students first. When APS grounds crews are unavailable, Romero takes it upon himself to maintain the school’s exterior—pulling weeds, trimming trees and keeping pathways clear. His dedication is evident in every corner of the school, and Chaparral is better because of him.

Richard Villones – School Police Officer, APS Police

Officer Richard Villones has served APS for 28 years, making him the longest-serving member of the district’s police department. Over nearly three decades, he has answered thousands of calls, assisted countless students and staff, and trained new recruits—all with a positive attitude (after his morning coffee, of course).

Beyond his official duties, Officer Villones' kindness stands out. He once adopted a stray kitten from a decommissioned APS site, and years later, that cat is still by his side. His unwavering dedication over the years has left a lasting impact on countless students and staff. His commitment to the safety and well-being of APS students and staff is unwavering, and his impact is immeasurable.