For the Fourth Straight Year, APS Recognizes Outstanding Employees

October's outstanding employees include an elementary school principal, school scheduling coordinator, custodian, and educational assistant.

If you are employed by Albuquerque Public Schools, you know two things:

• APS is the city’s largest employer and 
• We have some of the most dedicated professionals on our team.

Now it's time to give these employees the recognition they deserve through the Employee Recognition Program in its fourth year. 

APS has about 12,000 employees, including teachers, principals, counselors, nurses, IT techs, bus drivers, education assistants, custodians, cafeteria workers, secretaries, coaches, and many more. We have amazing professionals in our ranks who deserve a little attention, gratitude, and star treatment.

Congratulations to this month's honorees: 

• Jaclyn Bogue, Principal at Sierra Vista Elementary School

• Esperanza Ruiz-Sanchez, School Scheduling Coordinator

• Larry Summerville, Custodian at La Cueva High School

• Ricardo Zarate, Educational Assistant at Carlos Rey Elementary School

The honorees are being featured on the APS electronic billboards around town and will have an opportunity to lunch with Superintendent Elder or his representative. They also will be recognized by the APS Board of Education and receive a lasting memento of the honor.

Learn More about October's Nominees

Jaclyn Bogue, Principal at Sierra Vista Elementary School

Jaclyn was nominated by several co-workers who described her as an amazing administrator who has been very supportive of staff, students, and families, especially during the pandemic. "She has been a true leader who is not afraid to inform her staff of policies and procedures that have been very fluid during COVID," said teacher Sabrina Valdez.

Jaclyn is described as a hands-on and visible principal. 'You will find her in the drop-off line in the morning, greeting and unloading kids," said teacher Eileen Salazar, adding that Jaclyn sets high standards for students and staff but also makes them feel appreciated. 

Added counselor Amberlyne Noel, "Mrs. Bogue is hands down the epitome of what a leader represents." 

Esperanza Ruiz-Sanchez, School Scheduling Coordinator

Esperanza, a school scheduling coordinator for Student Information Systems,  is described as a hard worker who always goes above and beyond in everything she does and is completely selfless.

"There isn't a task that Esperanza can't handle," said co-worker Melissa Baca. "When a problem is given to her, she doesn't just put a band-aid on it and that's it. She investigates the issue from start to finish and makes sure that the issue is resolved."

Esperanza works thoroughly and tirelessly to make sure all users are supported. "She has a heart of gold and a smile that lights up any room she walks into," Baca said. "She is truly an asset to APS!" 

Larry Summerville, Custodian at La Cueva High School  

Larry makes every day at La Cueva High School a little brighter. He takes pride in his work and always has a smile on his face. Larry goes out of his way to greet everyone he sees and emits positive vibes wherever he goes. 

"Every job at school is important, and often the custodial staff does not get the respect for the importance their job plays in the day-to-day function of a school," said teacher Carrie McCoy. "Every night that Larry cleans my classroom, I start the next morning with a smile on my face. I don't have to worry about sweeping up in the morning or washing the floor, it has already been done when Larry is there. I can focus on my teaching and preparing for my students."

Larry has become a part of school culture, participating in assemblies and positively interacting with students and staff. 

Ricardo Zarate, Educational Assistant at Carlos Rey Elementary School

Ricardo was nominated for his exceptional work ethic, his passion for helping children, and for his high level of responsibility. During remote learning, he helped students and families with technical issues and went above and beyond to make sure parents were able to connect their students to class. He offered to call parents after work hours and helped them resolve issues. He was kind and compassionate to their needs. 

"Carlos is humble and truly enjoys being able to help every child he encounters," said teacher Sugeidy Valdez. "His problem-solving skills, exceptional work ethic, humility are what really makes him stand out."

How to nominate an employee

You can nominate an employee by filling out an online application. The nomination must be completed by someone other than the nominee (i.e., no self-nominations are eligible for consideration).

 Award recipients will be selected monthly by a Peer Praise Task Force.