Three APS Art Teachers Honored with Statewide Awards

Posted October 20, 2025, 1:17 PM. Updated October 20, 2025, 1:17 PM.

Educators recognized by the New Mexico Art Education Association for excellence, advocacy and innovation in visual arts education.

Three Albuquerque Public Schools educators are being recognized for their outstanding contributions to art education in New Mexico. The New Mexico Art Education Association (NMAEA) honored them during its annual conference on October 18.

Award Recipients

President’s Award of Distinction: Camellia Termini, Desert Ridge Middle School
Art Educator Advocacy Award: Jewelry Uplift — Lisa Gillet (with Edward Donato), Albuquerque High School
New Mexico Art Educator of the Year: René Palomares II, APS Fine Arts Department

The NMAEA Professional Awards honor educators whose exemplary classroom practices and community contributions advance visual and media arts across the state.

“Please help us congratulate them on their commitment and passion for the Arts, Arts Education, and Arts Education Policy and Practice,” NMAEA said in its announcement.

Their work reflects APS’s ongoing dedication to arts education and to fostering creativity, advocacy and opportunity for every student.