Leadership Team
Michael Dabrieo, Principal
Michael Dabrieo is the Principal of Kha'p'o Community School. He has an undergraduate degree in Journalism from the University of Maine, his Master's in Education Policy and Management from Harvard University's Graduate School of Education, and is completing his Master's in Education Administration at the University of Houston. Previously, Mr. Dabrieo worked as a 7th and 8th grade teacher at Tohaali Community School, located just south of Shiprock on the Navajo Nation, where he taught reading, math, science, and history. He then went on to work in Early Childhood Education at Thread, Alaska’s Child Care Resource and Referral Network, in Anchorage, Alaska as the organization’s Program Coordinator. Mr. Dabrieo joined the Native American Community Academy's (NACA)-Inspired Schools Network in 2014, and began work with the Santa Clara Pueblo to investigate educational options for the Tribe.
Mr. Dabrieo believes schools should be open and responsive to their communities. He is excited to continue working with the parents, children, and community members in Santa Clara to establish a unique, responsive education for the youth of the Pueblo.
Michael Dabrieo is the Principal of Kha'p'o Community School. He has an undergraduate degree in Journalism from the University of Maine, his Master's in Education Policy and Management from Harvard University's Graduate School of Education, and is completing his Master's in Education Administration at the University of Houston. Previously, Mr. Dabrieo worked as a 7th and 8th grade teacher at Tohaali Community School, located just south of Shiprock on the Navajo Nation, where he taught reading, math, science, and history. He then went on to work in Early Childhood Education at Thread, Alaska’s Child Care Resource and Referral Network, in Anchorage, Alaska as the organization’s Program Coordinator. Mr. Dabrieo joined the Native American Community Academy's (NACA)-Inspired Schools Network in 2014, and began work with the Santa Clara Pueblo to investigate educational options for the Tribe.
Mr. Dabrieo believes schools should be open and responsive to their communities. He is excited to continue working with the parents, children, and community members in Santa Clara to establish a unique, responsive education for the youth of the Pueblo.
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Danielle Martinez, Assistant Principal of Cultural Integration and Community Engagement
Danielle Martinez, the Assistant Principal of Cultural Integration and Community Engagement, is from Santa Clara Pueblo. She enjoys spending time with her son, Nathan. Danielle taught kindergarten at the Santa Clara Day School from 2010-2016. She completed her Bachelor's degree in elementary education at Northern New Mexico College. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Adams State University. She is looking forward to a productive and positive school year! |
Jeremy Simpson, Director of Operations
Jeremy Simpson, originally from Colorado, has been living on the Navajo Nation since 1990 where he grew up and went to school. He gained his professional experience working closely with many proven leaders in the educational and judicial/law enforcement system. He has worked in many areas and with several tribal entities throughout the United States. He holds his Associates in Psychology and Bachelors in Criminal Justice Administration and Police Science.
Jeremy has worked in operations, safety and compliance, and school construction, and has more than 15 years of experience providing thorough and skillful support to private and public entities in educational settings. In these works, he also acted as a liaison between law enforcement, public, federal, and state agencies. Other areas of experience include the conversion process of BIE schools to contract grant status and developing and implementing policy and procedures to ensure a seamless process to full contract/grant status.
Jeremy is a strong supporter in Tribally Controlled programs with a belief in self-reliance and tribal ownership.
He looks forward to working with the Kha'p'o Owinge and is honored to be selected as Director of Operations.
Jeremy Simpson, originally from Colorado, has been living on the Navajo Nation since 1990 where he grew up and went to school. He gained his professional experience working closely with many proven leaders in the educational and judicial/law enforcement system. He has worked in many areas and with several tribal entities throughout the United States. He holds his Associates in Psychology and Bachelors in Criminal Justice Administration and Police Science.
Jeremy has worked in operations, safety and compliance, and school construction, and has more than 15 years of experience providing thorough and skillful support to private and public entities in educational settings. In these works, he also acted as a liaison between law enforcement, public, federal, and state agencies. Other areas of experience include the conversion process of BIE schools to contract grant status and developing and implementing policy and procedures to ensure a seamless process to full contract/grant status.
Jeremy is a strong supporter in Tribally Controlled programs with a belief in self-reliance and tribal ownership.
He looks forward to working with the Kha'p'o Owinge and is honored to be selected as Director of Operations.
Kim Gonzales, Special Education Director/Teacher
Kimberly Gonzales, Special Education Director/Teacher, is from Santa Clara Pueblo. She graduated from the University of New Mexico in 1996 with a Bachelors of Science in Special Education and Elementary Education. Ms. Gonzales started her teaching career at Fairview Elementary in 1996 and moved to Santa Clara Day School in 2000. She has just completed her 20th year of teaching.
Kimberly Gonzales, Special Education Director/Teacher, is from Santa Clara Pueblo. She graduated from the University of New Mexico in 1996 with a Bachelors of Science in Special Education and Elementary Education. Ms. Gonzales started her teaching career at Fairview Elementary in 1996 and moved to Santa Clara Day School in 2000. She has just completed her 20th year of teaching.
Teachers
Laiza Johnson, Kindergarten Teacher
Laiza has worked as a 1st and 2nd grade teacher for the past three years out on the Navajo Nation reservation. She has an undergraduate degree in outdoor and alternative education from The Evergreen State College. She’s currently working towards her Master in Elementary Education through University of New Mexico. Prior to working in schools, Laiza served as a student support specialist and after school program coordinator in Olympia, Washington. As a previous ELL student who struggled in school, Laiza believes in creating safe and strong classroom communities that emphasizes students need and empower their identities. In addition, she values building relationships with families and sees it as essential component to student success. Laiza is excited to be teaching kindergarten and to be continually learning from everyone she meets!
Laiza has worked as a 1st and 2nd grade teacher for the past three years out on the Navajo Nation reservation. She has an undergraduate degree in outdoor and alternative education from The Evergreen State College. She’s currently working towards her Master in Elementary Education through University of New Mexico. Prior to working in schools, Laiza served as a student support specialist and after school program coordinator in Olympia, Washington. As a previous ELL student who struggled in school, Laiza believes in creating safe and strong classroom communities that emphasizes students need and empower their identities. In addition, she values building relationships with families and sees it as essential component to student success. Laiza is excited to be teaching kindergarten and to be continually learning from everyone she meets!
Jessica Levis, First Grade Teacher
Jessica Levis was born and raised in Maine and moved to New Mexico in 1999. In 2000, she received her Bachelor of Arts degree through Long Island University's Global Program. In 2000, she was hired for her first teaching position at Ohkay Owingeh Community School. After spending three years at OOCS, she became employed as a first and second grade teacher with the Santa Fe Public Schools. In 2007, she earned a Master's degree in Anthropology from New Mexico Highlands University. She is a Level III certified teacher with a license endorsement in Reading and she holds a National Board Certification in Literacy. She lives in Santa Fe with her husband and three children.
Jessica Levis was born and raised in Maine and moved to New Mexico in 1999. In 2000, she received her Bachelor of Arts degree through Long Island University's Global Program. In 2000, she was hired for her first teaching position at Ohkay Owingeh Community School. After spending three years at OOCS, she became employed as a first and second grade teacher with the Santa Fe Public Schools. In 2007, she earned a Master's degree in Anthropology from New Mexico Highlands University. She is a Level III certified teacher with a license endorsement in Reading and she holds a National Board Certification in Literacy. She lives in Santa Fe with her husband and three children.
Diane Katzenmeyer-Delgado, Second Grade Teacher
Diane Katzenmeyer-Delgado has been in education for 27 years in northern New Mexico and is excited to return to the classroom after 13 years in school administration as a principal and Assistant Superintendent. She earned a BFA in Photography from the Rhode Island School of Design and came to New Mexico after graduation in 1988. She then pursued education earning a BA from the College of Santa Fe and an MA in Educational Leadership from New Mexico Highlands University. She holds Level III education licenses in Early Childhood, K-8 ,7-12 and Administration with endorsements in TESOL, Bilingual and Visual Arts. She has experience as a bilingual elementary teacher and secondary level visual arts teacher and has worked with the Pecos, Santa Fe, Los Alamos and Pojoaque School Districts. She lives in Jacona with her husband and two teenage children and enjoys reading and beadwork in her spare time.
Ms. Delgado believes in collaborative hands on learning and is looking forward to engaging parents and community members in student learning.
Diane Katzenmeyer-Delgado has been in education for 27 years in northern New Mexico and is excited to return to the classroom after 13 years in school administration as a principal and Assistant Superintendent. She earned a BFA in Photography from the Rhode Island School of Design and came to New Mexico after graduation in 1988. She then pursued education earning a BA from the College of Santa Fe and an MA in Educational Leadership from New Mexico Highlands University. She holds Level III education licenses in Early Childhood, K-8 ,7-12 and Administration with endorsements in TESOL, Bilingual and Visual Arts. She has experience as a bilingual elementary teacher and secondary level visual arts teacher and has worked with the Pecos, Santa Fe, Los Alamos and Pojoaque School Districts. She lives in Jacona with her husband and two teenage children and enjoys reading and beadwork in her spare time.
Ms. Delgado believes in collaborative hands on learning and is looking forward to engaging parents and community members in student learning.
Phyllis Jenkins, Third Grade Teacher
Phyllis is Dine’ and was born in Tuba City, Arizona. She is married with two daughters and four grandchildren, and has lived in Santa Clara Pueblo for 20 years. She taught at Santa Clara Day School from 1997 – 2016, and is excited to return to Kha’p’o Community School. She looks forward to embracing new adventures with her third grade students and incorporating community and language at every opportunity.
Phyllis is Dine’ and was born in Tuba City, Arizona. She is married with two daughters and four grandchildren, and has lived in Santa Clara Pueblo for 20 years. She taught at Santa Clara Day School from 1997 – 2016, and is excited to return to Kha’p’o Community School. She looks forward to embracing new adventures with her third grade students and incorporating community and language at every opportunity.
Marian Cajete, Fourth Grade Teacher
Marian Patsy Cajete is from Taos Pueblo and has been in the education profession for over 28 years as a classroom teacher and administrator. Her experience includes teaching at the Kindergarten & Elementary levels in the Public Schools and the Bureau of Indian Affairs in the Espanola Valley and Jemez Pueblo. Mrs. Cajete began her teaching career in 1982 at the Santa Clara Day School as Kindergarten teacher. She taught at Alcalde Elementary & San Juan Elementary School before taking a position at the San Diego Riverside Charter School in Jemez Pueblo where she taught a fourth and fifth grade combination class and was Bilingual Education Coordinator. Her work experience include positions as Director for the Family Community Violence Prevention Program at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, NM and Education Consultant for the Indian Education and Bilingual Education Units with the New Mexico State Department of Public Education. In addition, she evaluated educational services provided by the Bernalillo Public Schools Indian Education Language Program. She was also employed as a Math/Science Coach for the Bernalillo Public Schools serving Native American students.Mrs. Cajete has conducted workshops on topics such as state and federal guidelines and requirements for Bilingual Education programs, using ESL (English as Second Language) strategies and classroom management skills.
Mrs. Cajete received her Bachelor of Arts degree from New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM in 1979 majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood Education. In 1990, she received her Masters of Arts degree from the University of New Mexico, in Curriculum & Instruction in Multicultural Education. In 2006, she received her Administrative License. Mrs. Cajete is a Licensed Level Three-A Instructional Leader in Early Childhood Education (Birth-3rd), Level Three-A Instructional Leader (Kindergarten-8th) and holds a Level Three-B Pre K-12 Administrative Licensure with endorsements in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and Bilingual Education.
Marian Patsy Cajete is from Taos Pueblo and has been in the education profession for over 28 years as a classroom teacher and administrator. Her experience includes teaching at the Kindergarten & Elementary levels in the Public Schools and the Bureau of Indian Affairs in the Espanola Valley and Jemez Pueblo. Mrs. Cajete began her teaching career in 1982 at the Santa Clara Day School as Kindergarten teacher. She taught at Alcalde Elementary & San Juan Elementary School before taking a position at the San Diego Riverside Charter School in Jemez Pueblo where she taught a fourth and fifth grade combination class and was Bilingual Education Coordinator. Her work experience include positions as Director for the Family Community Violence Prevention Program at the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe, NM and Education Consultant for the Indian Education and Bilingual Education Units with the New Mexico State Department of Public Education. In addition, she evaluated educational services provided by the Bernalillo Public Schools Indian Education Language Program. She was also employed as a Math/Science Coach for the Bernalillo Public Schools serving Native American students.Mrs. Cajete has conducted workshops on topics such as state and federal guidelines and requirements for Bilingual Education programs, using ESL (English as Second Language) strategies and classroom management skills.
Mrs. Cajete received her Bachelor of Arts degree from New Mexico Highlands University in Las Vegas, NM in 1979 majoring in Elementary Education with a minor in Early Childhood Education. In 1990, she received her Masters of Arts degree from the University of New Mexico, in Curriculum & Instruction in Multicultural Education. In 2006, she received her Administrative License. Mrs. Cajete is a Licensed Level Three-A Instructional Leader in Early Childhood Education (Birth-3rd), Level Three-A Instructional Leader (Kindergarten-8th) and holds a Level Three-B Pre K-12 Administrative Licensure with endorsements in TESOL (Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages) and Bilingual Education.
Louise R. Naranjo, 5th Grade Teacher
Louise R. Naranjo has been an educator for the past 30 years at the Santa Fe Indian School. She has taught
7th and 8th grades and has held various administrative positions at SFIS. She is excited to be teaching 5th grade this year and looks forward to providing a quality academic experience to her new students. Louise holds a degree in Education; and is a graduate from Harvard Graduate School of Education with a Masters in Reading and Language. Louise has called Santa Clara Pueblo her home for more than 30 years. She is originally from the Pueblos of Cochiti and San Felipe. She lives here in Santa Clara with her husband, Joe and their her daughter Tana and sons; Jason and Reyes. Louise and her husband are blessed with seven grandchildren. Louise is thankful to be apart of Kha'p'o Community School.
Louise R. Naranjo has been an educator for the past 30 years at the Santa Fe Indian School. She has taught
7th and 8th grades and has held various administrative positions at SFIS. She is excited to be teaching 5th grade this year and looks forward to providing a quality academic experience to her new students. Louise holds a degree in Education; and is a graduate from Harvard Graduate School of Education with a Masters in Reading and Language. Louise has called Santa Clara Pueblo her home for more than 30 years. She is originally from the Pueblos of Cochiti and San Felipe. She lives here in Santa Clara with her husband, Joe and their her daughter Tana and sons; Jason and Reyes. Louise and her husband are blessed with seven grandchildren. Louise is thankful to be apart of Kha'p'o Community School.
Paul LeFrancois, Sixth Grade Teacher
Paul LeFrancois is from southern New Hampshire and has worked in education in New Mexico for the past 5 years. After teaching at Navajo Elementary School in the northwest corner of the state, completing a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education at the University of New Mexico, and mentoring teachers with Teach For America, Paul looks forward to working directly with students at Kha’p’o Community School. Because he believes that quality education must have community at the center, Paul is driven to ensure that schools and classrooms work in close partnership with families and community. Having just moved to Santa Fe with his wife Lauren, Paul is excited to learn more about and to become a part of the northern communities of New Mexico.
Paul LeFrancois is from southern New Hampshire and has worked in education in New Mexico for the past 5 years. After teaching at Navajo Elementary School in the northwest corner of the state, completing a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education at the University of New Mexico, and mentoring teachers with Teach For America, Paul looks forward to working directly with students at Kha’p’o Community School. Because he believes that quality education must have community at the center, Paul is driven to ensure that schools and classrooms work in close partnership with families and community. Having just moved to Santa Fe with his wife Lauren, Paul is excited to learn more about and to become a part of the northern communities of New Mexico.
Diane Chavarria, Intervention and Testing Coordinator
“Learning is a never-ending and exciting adventure” is the motto that paves the way of Diane's life. She is a proud wife and mother of four boys who are from the Santa Clara Pueblo. With a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the Pennsylvania State University, she pursued a background in outdoor education for four years at Mesa Verde National Park, where her respect and appreciation of the Native American cultures originated. Then, she achieved a Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the New Mexico Highlands University. Currently, Diane is a Level Three certified K-8 teacher and is also engaged in the National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) process. She is also working on her Master’s in Educational Leadership through Adams State University. She is excited to continue teaching as I enter my sixteenth year as part of the Kha'p'o Community School.
“Learning is a never-ending and exciting adventure” is the motto that paves the way of Diane's life. She is a proud wife and mother of four boys who are from the Santa Clara Pueblo. With a Bachelor of Arts in Anthropology from the Pennsylvania State University, she pursued a background in outdoor education for four years at Mesa Verde National Park, where her respect and appreciation of the Native American cultures originated. Then, she achieved a Master’s in Education in Curriculum and Instruction from the New Mexico Highlands University. Currently, Diane is a Level Three certified K-8 teacher and is also engaged in the National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT) process. She is also working on her Master’s in Educational Leadership through Adams State University. She is excited to continue teaching as I enter my sixteenth year as part of the Kha'p'o Community School.
Steve Marsh, Guidance Counselor
Steve Marsh has been counseling children and families for 22 years. For nine years he worked in residential and community based settings serving Northern New Mexico and the Eight Northern Pueblos. Steve has been the School Counselor at Santa Clara Day School for the past thirteen years. He especially likes working in the Pueblo school setting as it provides the opportunity to develop long term and meaningful relationships in support of student’s social, emotional and academic growth.
Steve strongly believes that each person, young or old, possesses their own answers to their life challenges and he tries to support their inner wisdom in resolving those challenges. He often refers to counseling with children as “teaching to the heart.”
Steve Marsh has been counseling children and families for 22 years. For nine years he worked in residential and community based settings serving Northern New Mexico and the Eight Northern Pueblos. Steve has been the School Counselor at Santa Clara Day School for the past thirteen years. He especially likes working in the Pueblo school setting as it provides the opportunity to develop long term and meaningful relationships in support of student’s social, emotional and academic growth.
Steve strongly believes that each person, young or old, possesses their own answers to their life challenges and he tries to support their inner wisdom in resolving those challenges. He often refers to counseling with children as “teaching to the heart.”
Linda Martinez, Special Education Technician
Linda Martinez is from San Ildefonso Pueblo. She is married to her wonderful husband Dale. Linda received her Associate Degree in Art from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. She has worked in the school system for 25 plus years. Linda has held positions such as Resource Room librarian, Substitute teacher, Secretary, After School tutor, and Cook. While she was working full-time in her different roles, Linda worked on her own personal goals and attended classes to obtain her degree.
Linda started working at Santa Clara Day School 15 years ago in Special Education Department. This is a classroom that is set up for children to be successful an encouraged to challenge themselves at their rate of learning. As she worked with the children she was also encouraged to go back to school and receive her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from the College of Santa Fe.
Linda is looking forward and excited to work with the children of Kha’p’o once again.
Linda Martinez is from San Ildefonso Pueblo. She is married to her wonderful husband Dale. Linda received her Associate Degree in Art from the Institute of American Indian Arts in Santa Fe. She has worked in the school system for 25 plus years. Linda has held positions such as Resource Room librarian, Substitute teacher, Secretary, After School tutor, and Cook. While she was working full-time in her different roles, Linda worked on her own personal goals and attended classes to obtain her degree.
Linda started working at Santa Clara Day School 15 years ago in Special Education Department. This is a classroom that is set up for children to be successful an encouraged to challenge themselves at their rate of learning. As she worked with the children she was also encouraged to go back to school and receive her Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from the College of Santa Fe.
Linda is looking forward and excited to work with the children of Kha’p’o once again.
Julia Naranjo, Special Education Technician
Julia Naranjo is an enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She is married and has two wonderful daughters. She has 10 years previous experience working with the FACE program and has worked previously as a Special Education Technician.
Julia Naranjo is an enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She is married and has two wonderful daughters. She has 10 years previous experience working with the FACE program and has worked previously as a Special Education Technician.
Mary K. Meastas, Speech Language Pathologist
Mary K. Maestas, M.A., CCC-SLP, is a certified and licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. She graduated from New Mexico State University earning both her Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Speech Language Pathology. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech and Hearing Association, (ASHA), Certification from the New Mexico State Department of Education (Level 3), and Licensure from the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Board and Santa Clara Pueblo. In addition, Mary K. is a member of the ASHA Special Interest Groups; Cultural Linguistic Diversity and School Based Issues.
Mary K. has experience working with a wide variety of both school age and adult populations and has worked in a variety of settings including BIE and tribally operated grant schools, home health agencies, independent consultation and a hospital setting. Mary K. is passionate about connecting with and engaging each person in a manner that supports their individual needs. She has experience working with expressive/receptive language disorders, phonological speech disorders, autism, fluency, voice, pragmatic language delays, dysarthria, dysphagia and neurological disorders. Mary K. has provided Speech-Language services to the families of Santa Clara Pueblo for the last twenty-two years.
Mary K. Maestas, M.A., CCC-SLP, is a certified and licensed Speech-Language Pathologist. She graduated from New Mexico State University earning both her Bachelors and Masters Degrees in Speech Language Pathology. She holds a Certificate of Clinical Competence from the American Speech and Hearing Association, (ASHA), Certification from the New Mexico State Department of Education (Level 3), and Licensure from the New Mexico Regulation and Licensing Board and Santa Clara Pueblo. In addition, Mary K. is a member of the ASHA Special Interest Groups; Cultural Linguistic Diversity and School Based Issues.
Mary K. has experience working with a wide variety of both school age and adult populations and has worked in a variety of settings including BIE and tribally operated grant schools, home health agencies, independent consultation and a hospital setting. Mary K. is passionate about connecting with and engaging each person in a manner that supports their individual needs. She has experience working with expressive/receptive language disorders, phonological speech disorders, autism, fluency, voice, pragmatic language delays, dysarthria, dysphagia and neurological disorders. Mary K. has provided Speech-Language services to the families of Santa Clara Pueblo for the last twenty-two years.
Tewa Language Program
Faye Viarrial, Tewa Language Instructor
Faye Viarrial is a member of Santa Clara Pueblo and the Cheyenne-Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma. Faye hold a Masters degree in Educational Leadership from the University of New Mexico. Faye retired from teaching in 2010 after 36 years. In 2017, Faye return to teach at the Kha'p'o Community School and share her knowledge of the Tewa language to our future Tewa speakers
Faye Viarrial is a member of Santa Clara Pueblo and the Cheyenne-Arapaho Tribes of Oklahoma. Faye hold a Masters degree in Educational Leadership from the University of New Mexico. Faye retired from teaching in 2010 after 36 years. In 2017, Faye return to teach at the Kha'p'o Community School and share her knowledge of the Tewa language to our future Tewa speakers
Barbara Chavarria, Tewa Language Instructor
Barbara Chavarria grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She moved home to Santa Clara Pueblo in the 1970's and learned to speak the Tewa Language. She worked for the Bilingual Program in the 1980's. During her time with the bilingual program she attended the University of New Mexico. Due to funding the language program ended after her seven years with the Program. In 2016 Barbra started at Kha'p'o Community as a Tewa language Instructor. She enjoys working with the students, staff and community. She looks forward to another successful school year.
Barbara Chavarria grew up in Santa Fe, New Mexico. She moved home to Santa Clara Pueblo in the 1970's and learned to speak the Tewa Language. She worked for the Bilingual Program in the 1980's. During her time with the bilingual program she attended the University of New Mexico. Due to funding the language program ended after her seven years with the Program. In 2016 Barbra started at Kha'p'o Community as a Tewa language Instructor. She enjoys working with the students, staff and community. She looks forward to another successful school year.
Larissa Aguilar, Tewa Language Assistant
Larissa Aguilar is a Tewa Language Assistant at Kha P’O’ Community school. Larissa Aguilar is from San Ildefonso/Santa Clara Pueblo. She is a mother of two (a daughter, 10 years old and a son, 3 years old). she enjoys working on pottery, sewing, and also likes the outdoors and hunting. She holds an Associates in Applied Science in Industrial Design and drafting from Northern New Mexico College , and also a Associates of Arts in Library Science from Dona Ana Community College in Las Cruces. She currently attends Northern New Mexico College where she is pursuing her bachelors in Childhood Education. Larissa worked for the Santa Clara Pueblo Community Library for over 7 years as an information technology technician. She chose to work for KCS because she loves working with kids and enjoys seeing their eyes light up when they have learned something new. She is excited to work with the children to help teach the Tewa language and learn something new every day.
Larissa Aguilar is a Tewa Language Assistant at Kha P’O’ Community school. Larissa Aguilar is from San Ildefonso/Santa Clara Pueblo. She is a mother of two (a daughter, 10 years old and a son, 3 years old). she enjoys working on pottery, sewing, and also likes the outdoors and hunting. She holds an Associates in Applied Science in Industrial Design and drafting from Northern New Mexico College , and also a Associates of Arts in Library Science from Dona Ana Community College in Las Cruces. She currently attends Northern New Mexico College where she is pursuing her bachelors in Childhood Education. Larissa worked for the Santa Clara Pueblo Community Library for over 7 years as an information technology technician. She chose to work for KCS because she loves working with kids and enjoys seeing their eyes light up when they have learned something new. She is excited to work with the children to help teach the Tewa language and learn something new every day.
Jude Chavarria, Tewa Language Assistant
Jude Chavarria is a Tewa Language Teacher Assistant at KCS. He is from Santa Clara and San Juan Pueblo. Jude co-teaches along side the Language Instructors for classes K-6th grades. He also lead teaches the FACE Program kids who are 0-5 years of age. He enjoys spending time with his family. He graduated from the Santa Fe Indian School in 2017. He is looking forward to teaching the students at KCS the Tewa Language.
Jude Chavarria is a Tewa Language Teacher Assistant at KCS. He is from Santa Clara and San Juan Pueblo. Jude co-teaches along side the Language Instructors for classes K-6th grades. He also lead teaches the FACE Program kids who are 0-5 years of age. He enjoys spending time with his family. He graduated from the Santa Fe Indian School in 2017. He is looking forward to teaching the students at KCS the Tewa Language.
Eliza Naranjo Morse, Tewa Language Art Teacher
Eliza Naranjo Morse is the Art teacher at Kha Po’ Community School. To navigate life with a creative and confident sense of renewal, resourcefulness and relationship are the skills she aims to share with the young people attending KCS. Her most valuable form of education has been the ongoing relationship she has with her elders and and land around her. Her professional experience includes an Art degree from Skidmore College (NY, 2003) working as an artist for more than fifteen years and her work in creative consultation and programming within Indigenous institutions.
Eliza Naranjo Morse is the Art teacher at Kha Po’ Community School. To navigate life with a creative and confident sense of renewal, resourcefulness and relationship are the skills she aims to share with the young people attending KCS. Her most valuable form of education has been the ongoing relationship she has with her elders and and land around her. Her professional experience includes an Art degree from Skidmore College (NY, 2003) working as an artist for more than fifteen years and her work in creative consultation and programming within Indigenous institutions.
Food Services
Robert Abeyta, Cook/Gym Class Teacher
Robert Abeyta is a a Tribal enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo. He has worked with youth for over 20 years as a Recreation Assistant, PE teacher, Afterschool Program Coordinator, Coach and Friend. Mr. Abeyta enjoys working with youth and see them develop into young men and women.
Robert Abeyta is a a Tribal enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo. He has worked with youth for over 20 years as a Recreation Assistant, PE teacher, Afterschool Program Coordinator, Coach and Friend. Mr. Abeyta enjoys working with youth and see them develop into young men and women.
Rena Chavarria, Cook
Rena Chavarria is a tribal member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She has three children, Jona who is 25, Krissa who is 23, and Isaac who is 21. She has three grandchildren Terrance who is almost 4, Azariyah who is 1, and Zylen Max who is also 1. She also has a foster child who she has had since she was 1 month old and she is almost 3, her name is Dazzleen but to everyone she goes by Flower.
Rena Chavarria is a tribal member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She has three children, Jona who is 25, Krissa who is 23, and Isaac who is 21. She has three grandchildren Terrance who is almost 4, Azariyah who is 1, and Zylen Max who is also 1. She also has a foster child who she has had since she was 1 month old and she is almost 3, her name is Dazzleen but to everyone she goes by Flower.
School Health
Marie John, Wellness Coordinator
Marie is the Wellness Coordinator at Kha’p’o’ Community School-overseeing the 21st Century Program and School Health Office. Her experience includes working in the medical field for 17 years as a Medical Assistant. Marie has worked in a variety of health care settings- such as urgent care, family practice, OB/GYN and specialty clinics.
Marie’s parents are Marcia & Andy Padilla from Santa Clara Pueblo and her father David John, Sr. is from Hunters Point, Arizona. She was raised and has lived in Santa Clara Pueblo and is also half Dine’. She has four children-Daniel is married to his lovely wife Melodie and they have two beautiful daughters; Jamie lives and works in Albuquerque; her sons Stanlee and Jakobe are both in high school and attend Los Alamos High School.
Marie most enjoys caring for the Khapo Community School students, enhancing school health, planning meaningful & impactful programs, and seeing students’ smiling faces every day.
Marie is the Wellness Coordinator at Kha’p’o’ Community School-overseeing the 21st Century Program and School Health Office. Her experience includes working in the medical field for 17 years as a Medical Assistant. Marie has worked in a variety of health care settings- such as urgent care, family practice, OB/GYN and specialty clinics.
Marie’s parents are Marcia & Andy Padilla from Santa Clara Pueblo and her father David John, Sr. is from Hunters Point, Arizona. She was raised and has lived in Santa Clara Pueblo and is also half Dine’. She has four children-Daniel is married to his lovely wife Melodie and they have two beautiful daughters; Jamie lives and works in Albuquerque; her sons Stanlee and Jakobe are both in high school and attend Los Alamos High School.
Marie most enjoys caring for the Khapo Community School students, enhancing school health, planning meaningful & impactful programs, and seeing students’ smiling faces every day.
Facilities
Pedro Valdez, Facilities Manager
Pedro Valdez is from Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo. He is married with two kids - Eliseo Valdez who is 12 and Amalia Valdez who is 3. His wife is Charmaine, she is 1/2 Zuni and 1/2 Santa Clara. He was raised by his mother Norma Naranjo and by his step-father Eugene Naranjo aka "Hutchy". He was also raised by his biological father Ralph Valdez who passed away in 1999. He grew up both in Ohkay Owingeh and Santa Clara Pueblos engaged in farming and ranching. He has worked at the former Santa Clara Day School for the past 12 years. He is very traditional, some here in Santa Clara but mostly in Ohkay Owingeh. He loves the outdoors, riding horses, hunting, fishing, farming, ranching, and enjoying life and his family.
Pedro Valdez is from Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo. He is married with two kids - Eliseo Valdez who is 12 and Amalia Valdez who is 3. His wife is Charmaine, she is 1/2 Zuni and 1/2 Santa Clara. He was raised by his mother Norma Naranjo and by his step-father Eugene Naranjo aka "Hutchy". He was also raised by his biological father Ralph Valdez who passed away in 1999. He grew up both in Ohkay Owingeh and Santa Clara Pueblos engaged in farming and ranching. He has worked at the former Santa Clara Day School for the past 12 years. He is very traditional, some here in Santa Clara but mostly in Ohkay Owingeh. He loves the outdoors, riding horses, hunting, fishing, farming, ranching, and enjoying life and his family.
Leonard Gonzales, Maintenance/Bus Driver
Leonard Gonzales was born and raised in Rinconada, New Mexico. He has lived there all his life. He likes to go hunting for big game like bear and lion. He has been a plumber for 27 years. He is a proud father of 2 children with a grandchild on the way. He has decided to make a change which is to come and work with the kids and be a bus driver. He really likes working with all the kids and is thankful for having this opportunity to work here.
Leonard Gonzales was born and raised in Rinconada, New Mexico. He has lived there all his life. He likes to go hunting for big game like bear and lion. He has been a plumber for 27 years. He is a proud father of 2 children with a grandchild on the way. He has decided to make a change which is to come and work with the kids and be a bus driver. He really likes working with all the kids and is thankful for having this opportunity to work here.
FACE Program
Pam Simpson, Parent Educator FACE Program
Pam Simpson is the newest addition to the FACE Program as Parent Educator. She comes to us with experience in early intervention serving children 0-3 years of age. Pam is from Arizona but has been in New Mexico the past few years. As a parent of two Pam partakes in her children’s education and school functions to hype their knowledge and experience.
She holds a Bachelors in Human Services & Management with a minor in Psychology and is certified as a Medical Assistant, Pam has worked in private practice for many years. She is also in near completion of her Masters in Business Administration.
Her worked began in the healthcare field and has slowly made her way into the world of education. She has a profound interest in early intervention. Continues to delve in the world of early childhood and development. Her recent work experience is with children whom experience developmental delays, are medically fragile or experience emotional/physical trauma. She hopes to impact the children and family she will soon serve. Her belief is children experience the most profound impact at an early age in building foundational skills and hopes to be a part of that change in their development.
Pam Simpson is the newest addition to the FACE Program as Parent Educator. She comes to us with experience in early intervention serving children 0-3 years of age. Pam is from Arizona but has been in New Mexico the past few years. As a parent of two Pam partakes in her children’s education and school functions to hype their knowledge and experience.
She holds a Bachelors in Human Services & Management with a minor in Psychology and is certified as a Medical Assistant, Pam has worked in private practice for many years. She is also in near completion of her Masters in Business Administration.
Her worked began in the healthcare field and has slowly made her way into the world of education. She has a profound interest in early intervention. Continues to delve in the world of early childhood and development. Her recent work experience is with children whom experience developmental delays, are medically fragile or experience emotional/physical trauma. She hopes to impact the children and family she will soon serve. Her belief is children experience the most profound impact at an early age in building foundational skills and hopes to be a part of that change in their development.
Mina Harvier, Parent Educator FACE Program
Mina Harvier is the daughter of Andy and Marcia Padilla from Santa Clara Pueblo. She has two beautiful children, Mirdacia and JaiP'o, with her husband Jordan. She has worked at Santa Clara Day School for 9 years and San Ildefonso Day School for 4 years. She is currently a member of the Santa Fe Opera Pueblo Advisory Board, she also enjoys traveling, camping and attending concerts. She looks forward to this great opportunity and blessing to be back home at Kha’p’o Community School.
Mina Harvier is the daughter of Andy and Marcia Padilla from Santa Clara Pueblo. She has two beautiful children, Mirdacia and JaiP'o, with her husband Jordan. She has worked at Santa Clara Day School for 9 years and San Ildefonso Day School for 4 years. She is currently a member of the Santa Fe Opera Pueblo Advisory Board, she also enjoys traveling, camping and attending concerts. She looks forward to this great opportunity and blessing to be back home at Kha’p’o Community School.
Rose Naranjo, Adult Educator FACE Program
Rose Naranjo is from San Ildefonso Pueblo. She graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education. She taught at the Santa Clara Day School for 27 years and is excited about returning to Kha’p’o Community School to work with families and community members in the FACE program.
Rose Naranjo is from San Ildefonso Pueblo. She graduated from Eastern New Mexico University with a Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education. She taught at the Santa Clara Day School for 27 years and is excited about returning to Kha’p’o Community School to work with families and community members in the FACE program.
Denise Gutierrez, Early Childhood Educator FACE Program
Denise Gutierrez is from Santa Clara Pueblo. Denise began her career at Santa Clara Pueblo Head Start from September 2006 - August 2016. While she worked at the head start, she also attended Northern New Mexico College and earned an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. After a year off, she worked online to receive a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education with Ashford University. Denise is looking forward to a new adventure with preschoolers, Kha’p’o Community School and the FACE program.
Denise Gutierrez is from Santa Clara Pueblo. Denise began her career at Santa Clara Pueblo Head Start from September 2006 - August 2016. While she worked at the head start, she also attended Northern New Mexico College and earned an Associate's degree in Early Childhood Education. After a year off, she worked online to receive a Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education with Ashford University. Denise is looking forward to a new adventure with preschoolers, Kha’p’o Community School and the FACE program.
Antoinette Herrera, FACE Coordinator/Early Childhood Co-Teacher FACE Program
Antoinette is from Santa Clara Pueblo. She goes by the name Toni, she has a family of 4, herself, husband, and two children. She has a degree in Applied Science and she is planning to go back to college. By coming to the KCS, it is clear that she wants give back and pass on her knowledge to the younger generations and in return, they will teach her something. We learn and work together; that’s what community is.
Antoinette is from Santa Clara Pueblo. She goes by the name Toni, she has a family of 4, herself, husband, and two children. She has a degree in Applied Science and she is planning to go back to college. By coming to the KCS, it is clear that she wants give back and pass on her knowledge to the younger generations and in return, they will teach her something. We learn and work together; that’s what community is.
