Albuquerque Public Schools
La Cueva History Teacher Receives Prestigious Award
Stacy Cooley says teaching history is her passion.
A La Cueva High School Educator has been selected as the 2024 New Mexico History Teacher of the Year by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History.
Stacy Cooley, an Albuquerque native who has taught at La Cueva for 16 years, will receive a $1,000 prize, a core archive of American history books, and educational materials curated by the Gilder Lehrman Institute.
She was nominated for the award by a colleague. Cooley said she’s proud to represent La Cueva and APS.
“Teaching history is my passion, and this award is a reflection of the hard work put in collaborating with colleagues, a supportive administration, and the incredible young people who continually wow me, push me to try new things, and always exceed my expectations,” she added.
The award recognizes exceptional elementary through high school teachers “for their outstanding contributions to American history education.” The Gilder Lehrman Institute is the nation’s leading nonprofit organization dedicated to K-12 American history education. Each year it recognizes a K-12 teacher from each state, Washington, D.C., Department of Defense schools, and U.S. territories.
“In times like these, history teachers play a critical role in shaping students’ understanding of the past and inspiring hope for the future,” said James G. Basker, president of the Gilder Lehrman Institute. “Their unwavering dedication to educating our youth is commendable, and we take great pride in honoring the most exceptional educators across the country.”
Cooley earned her B.A. in secondary education from the University of New Mexico and her master’s degree from Eastern New Mexico University. She has taught at APS for 18 years.
“I love teaching AP U.S. History because the content helps students build empathy, critical thinking, and perspective as they learn about the histories of various groups in our nation,” Cooley said. “It also helps students better understand their place in the world as they become more knowledgeable about current U.S. and world events.
She said she works to create engaging activities that allow students to make sense of U.S. history through discussion, role play, and analysis of various resources.
“These activities provide space for constructive conversations and problem solving, which are essential for students today and the future citizens of tomorrow,” she added..
Beyond teaching history, Cooley sponsors La Cueva’s National Social Studies Honor Society, the Native American Student Union, Asian Student Union, and the Random Acts of Kindness Club.