KCS STAFF
Front office
Samantha Tafoya, Office Manager and Registrar
I am Samantha Tafoya, and I was born and raised in Shawnee, Kansas. I have been a community member of Santa Clara Pueblo for 16 years now. I am married to Quincy Tafoya, a tribal member of Santa Clara Pueblo. Me and Quincy have two kids, our daughter Felicia and our son Xavier, who both have attended KCS and are now students at SFIS. We enjoy fishing, camping, swimming, and gardening. I have been in many roles here at KCS. I started off as an Educational Support Member through the Americorps Program, for 2 years. I then transferred to become a Substitute Teacher for a year at KCS. Then in February of 2021, I became an Educational Assistant. Since July of 2021, I am the Front Office Manager / Registrar of KCS. I love every minute of my job and helping our school and community.
I am Samantha Tafoya, and I was born and raised in Shawnee, Kansas. I have been a community member of Santa Clara Pueblo for 16 years now. I am married to Quincy Tafoya, a tribal member of Santa Clara Pueblo. Me and Quincy have two kids, our daughter Felicia and our son Xavier, who both have attended KCS and are now students at SFIS. We enjoy fishing, camping, swimming, and gardening. I have been in many roles here at KCS. I started off as an Educational Support Member through the Americorps Program, for 2 years. I then transferred to become a Substitute Teacher for a year at KCS. Then in February of 2021, I became an Educational Assistant. Since July of 2021, I am the Front Office Manager / Registrar of KCS. I love every minute of my job and helping our school and community.
KCS STAFF
Larissa Aguilar, Kindergarten Teacher
Santa Clara Pueblo/ San Illdefonso Pueblo
Larissa is the Kindergarten/Lead Tewa Teacher at Kha’p'o Community school. She is from San Ildefonso/Santa Clara Pueblo. She is a mother of two, a son and daughter. 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 an Associates of Arts in Library Science from Dona Ana Community College in Las Cruces. She graduated from Northern New Mexico College this past Spring 2020, where she is obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. She has 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.
Santa Clara Pueblo/ San Illdefonso Pueblo
Larissa is the Kindergarten/Lead Tewa Teacher at Kha’p'o Community school. She is from San Ildefonso/Santa Clara Pueblo. She is a mother of two, a son and daughter. 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 an Associates of Arts in Library Science from Dona Ana Community College in Las Cruces. She graduated from Northern New Mexico College this past Spring 2020, where she is obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. She has 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.
Josephine Naranjo-Montoya, First Grade Teacher/ Assistant Director of Instruction
Santa Clara Pueblo/ Hopi
Josephine Naranjo - Montoya is an enrolled tribal member of Santa Clara Pueblo and half Hopi. She is married and has two children Kaitlyn and Kiandra and three step-children AJ, Miah, and Erica. Josephine began her career with Santa Clara Pueblo Head Start from June 2009 - December 2020. While working at the Santa Clara Pueblo Head Start she attended Northern New Mexico College and earned her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education in 2013. After receiving her Associates she enrolled in Ashford University and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education in 2014. She is currently pursuing her Masters degree in Early Childhood Education with an emphasis in Leadership and looking forward to completion in December 2021. Josephine is excited for her new adventure with the Kha'p'o Community School and FACE program. She is seeking a Master degree at NAU in Flagstaff, AZ.
Santa Clara Pueblo/ Hopi
Josephine Naranjo - Montoya is an enrolled tribal member of Santa Clara Pueblo and half Hopi. She is married and has two children Kaitlyn and Kiandra and three step-children AJ, Miah, and Erica. Josephine began her career with Santa Clara Pueblo Head Start from June 2009 - December 2020. While working at the Santa Clara Pueblo Head Start she attended Northern New Mexico College and earned her Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education in 2013. After receiving her Associates she enrolled in Ashford University and obtained her Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education in 2014. She is currently pursuing her Masters degree in Early Childhood Education with an emphasis in Leadership and looking forward to completion in December 2021. Josephine is excited for her new adventure with the Kha'p'o Community School and FACE program. She is seeking a Master degree at NAU in Flagstaff, AZ.
Tom Glaser, 2nd Grade Teacher
My name is Tom Glaser. I am from Chicago, Illinois. I have been a teacher for over twenty-seven years. I am certified in all subjects. I taught all grade levels in an elementary school. I graduated from Chicago State University with a BA in Elementary Education. I am almost finished with my master’s degree in school administration. I plan to get a doctorate degree in the near future. I speak Spanish, Italian, some Japanese, and Sign Language. Presently, I am learning Tewa and Native American culture. I reside in Santa Clara Pueblo and have been a resident here for the past seven years. My teaching concepts are challenging and rewarding, every child can learn. I will tutor before and after school time permitting approval. My students will do several projects which will challenge their academic skills. I hope you will find these lessons to be filled with great knowledge.
My name is Tom Glaser. I am from Chicago, Illinois. I have been a teacher for over twenty-seven years. I am certified in all subjects. I taught all grade levels in an elementary school. I graduated from Chicago State University with a BA in Elementary Education. I am almost finished with my master’s degree in school administration. I plan to get a doctorate degree in the near future. I speak Spanish, Italian, some Japanese, and Sign Language. Presently, I am learning Tewa and Native American culture. I reside in Santa Clara Pueblo and have been a resident here for the past seven years. My teaching concepts are challenging and rewarding, every child can learn. I will tutor before and after school time permitting approval. My students will do several projects which will challenge their academic skills. I hope you will find these lessons to be filled with great knowledge.
Diane Chavarria, 3rd grade Teacher
“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 a National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT). In addition, she earned her Master’s in Educational Leadership with an administrative license through Adams State University. She is excited and grateful to continue teaching at 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 a National Board Certified Teacher (NBCT). In addition, she earned her Master’s in Educational Leadership with an administrative license through Adams State University. She is excited and grateful to continue teaching at Kha’p’o Community School.
Catherine Lopez-Brown, 4th Grade Teacher
Catherine Lopez-Brown is a native New Mexican who grew up in Fairview, New Mexico. Her family has lived in the area for many generations. She grew up in an apple orchard tended by her father after work and on weekends. She loved joining clubs, first Girl Scouts and then 4-H. She learned sewing, baking, canning and how to give speeches. 4-H taught her to be a leader, for ten years she continued the monthly meetings with or without a leader using parliamentary procedure. 4-H allowed her to go to Washington, DC and Chicago. She was in the marching and concert band from 6th grade until 12th. She knew she was going to college after high school because she visited New Mexico State University with the 4-H. She attended NMSU for three years, got married and moved to California and received a degree in Liberal Studies and a MA in Elementary Education at California State University in San Bernardino. She has a K-12 credential. She has two boys; Jeff is a teacher in Pasadena, CA, as is his wife Norma and son Ryan went to the Navy and is now in power production in Houston, Texas. His wife Christina teaches 5th grade. She has eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She and husband Steven Brown have been teachers for thirty years in CA. They own an apple orchard in Velarde, New Mexico. She has attended classes in Auditory Discrimination in Depth, Gifted and Talented Education, Technology, and Reading Strategies and more. She loves learning new things and would love to learn the TEWA language. She likes to make learning challenging and fun!
Catherine Lopez-Brown is a native New Mexican who grew up in Fairview, New Mexico. Her family has lived in the area for many generations. She grew up in an apple orchard tended by her father after work and on weekends. She loved joining clubs, first Girl Scouts and then 4-H. She learned sewing, baking, canning and how to give speeches. 4-H taught her to be a leader, for ten years she continued the monthly meetings with or without a leader using parliamentary procedure. 4-H allowed her to go to Washington, DC and Chicago. She was in the marching and concert band from 6th grade until 12th. She knew she was going to college after high school because she visited New Mexico State University with the 4-H. She attended NMSU for three years, got married and moved to California and received a degree in Liberal Studies and a MA in Elementary Education at California State University in San Bernardino. She has a K-12 credential. She has two boys; Jeff is a teacher in Pasadena, CA, as is his wife Norma and son Ryan went to the Navy and is now in power production in Houston, Texas. His wife Christina teaches 5th grade. She has eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren. She and husband Steven Brown have been teachers for thirty years in CA. They own an apple orchard in Velarde, New Mexico. She has attended classes in Auditory Discrimination in Depth, Gifted and Talented Education, Technology, and Reading Strategies and more. She loves learning new things and would love to learn the TEWA language. She likes to make learning challenging and fun!
Rita Diamant, 5th Grade Teacher
Rita L. Diamant , who her students know her as Miss Rita. She was born and raised in Los Angeles, went to Hawthorne High School, and Served in the U.S. Air Force for 5 years. Rita went to California State University Los Angeles and received a B.A. in Art and an MA in Catholic School Inclusion from Loyola Marymount University. While attending school, Rita mostly worked at the telephone company, insurance companies, and banks. When she finally graduated she began to teach in South Los Angeles at Regina Cali High School and Verbum Dei High School. RIta spent the last 20 years teaching career at St. Monica Catholic High School in Santa Monica before moving to New Mexico. Rita's grandparents are from Mexico and her parents are from Arizona and Los Angeles. She has a large family with 5 brothers and 5 sisters and they live all over the United States with children of their own. She loves spending time with them when she can.
Rita has been working in New Mexico schools as a substitute teacher and educational assistant since 2017 and she is very excited about this opportunity to teach at Kh’a’po Community School. With the help of KCS, Rita is able to get a level one license in New Mexico through the LEAP program. She hopes to learn more about the Santa Clara Community while teaching the 5th and 6th grade classes.
Rita L. Diamant , who her students know her as Miss Rita. She was born and raised in Los Angeles, went to Hawthorne High School, and Served in the U.S. Air Force for 5 years. Rita went to California State University Los Angeles and received a B.A. in Art and an MA in Catholic School Inclusion from Loyola Marymount University. While attending school, Rita mostly worked at the telephone company, insurance companies, and banks. When she finally graduated she began to teach in South Los Angeles at Regina Cali High School and Verbum Dei High School. RIta spent the last 20 years teaching career at St. Monica Catholic High School in Santa Monica before moving to New Mexico. Rita's grandparents are from Mexico and her parents are from Arizona and Los Angeles. She has a large family with 5 brothers and 5 sisters and they live all over the United States with children of their own. She loves spending time with them when she can.
Rita has been working in New Mexico schools as a substitute teacher and educational assistant since 2017 and she is very excited about this opportunity to teach at Kh’a’po Community School. With the help of KCS, Rita is able to get a level one license in New Mexico through the LEAP program. She hopes to learn more about the Santa Clara Community while teaching the 5th and 6th grade classes.
Mark St.John, 6th Grade Teacher
Hi, I'm Mark St.John, the new 6th grade teacher. I'm very excited about teaching at KHA'Po'and getting to know you. Here is a brief biography; I grew up as a kid in Peoria and Kewanee Ill., then moved to Texas for high school. I was a medic in the army for two years and then moved to Santa Fe and graduated from St.John's College. No, I'm not related to the College in any way. I went to graduate school at UNM in Albuquerque and received a master's degree in elementary education. My first teaching job was at Isleta Pueblo where I also began working with the American Indian Science and engineering Society. I returned to Santa Fe and was Director of Student Activities and a part time tutor at St.John's College for 16 years. My wife dragged me to New York City where she worked in fashion design. I worked as a medic and Park Ranger at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for 12 years.( both my grandparents came from Ireland in 1921 and were processed at Ellis Island) I finally got back to New Mexico and spent one more year with the NPS at Valles Caldera. I love river rafting, hiking and camping, watching movies with my wife and reading. See you soon!
Hi, I'm Mark St.John, the new 6th grade teacher. I'm very excited about teaching at KHA'Po'and getting to know you. Here is a brief biography; I grew up as a kid in Peoria and Kewanee Ill., then moved to Texas for high school. I was a medic in the army for two years and then moved to Santa Fe and graduated from St.John's College. No, I'm not related to the College in any way. I went to graduate school at UNM in Albuquerque and received a master's degree in elementary education. My first teaching job was at Isleta Pueblo where I also began working with the American Indian Science and engineering Society. I returned to Santa Fe and was Director of Student Activities and a part time tutor at St.John's College for 16 years. My wife dragged me to New York City where she worked in fashion design. I worked as a medic and Park Ranger at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island for 12 years.( both my grandparents came from Ireland in 1921 and were processed at Ellis Island) I finally got back to New Mexico and spent one more year with the NPS at Valles Caldera. I love river rafting, hiking and camping, watching movies with my wife and reading. See you soon!
Kim Gonzales, Special Education Teacher/ Coordinator
Santa Clara Pueblo
Kimberly Gonzales, Special Education Coordinator/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.
Santa Clara Pueblo
Kimberly Gonzales, Special Education Coordinator/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.
SUPPORT STAFF
Rosita Dasheno (Cita), Educational Assistant
Santa Clara Pueblo
Rosita Dasheno is a member of Santa Clara Pueblo and has lived in the community her entire life. She is super excited to begin her new career adventure with Kha’po Community School as an Educational Assistant and will also be attending Northern New Mexico College in the Fall to obtain her degree in Elementary Education. Preserving the Tewa culture and language are some of the most important things to her, as she hopes to teach and share the values of maintaining our culturally balanced world. She has been a member of the Santa Clara Pueblo Volunteer Fire Department for over 12 years and has committed herself to taking care of her community and its members. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends and animals.
Santa Clara Pueblo
Rosita Dasheno is a member of Santa Clara Pueblo and has lived in the community her entire life. She is super excited to begin her new career adventure with Kha’po Community School as an Educational Assistant and will also be attending Northern New Mexico College in the Fall to obtain her degree in Elementary Education. Preserving the Tewa culture and language are some of the most important things to her, as she hopes to teach and share the values of maintaining our culturally balanced world. She has been a member of the Santa Clara Pueblo Volunteer Fire Department for over 12 years and has committed herself to taking care of her community and its members. She enjoys spending time with her family, friends and animals.
Leah Pacheco, Educational Assistant
Ohkay Owingeh
Leah Pacheco is an enrolled member of Ohkay Owingeh. She is a former US Air Force military spouse. Leah has two young children with her husband, Christian Veladre, an enrolled member of Santa Clara. She began her career in 2018 as an Assistant Teacher at the Ohkay Owingeh Head Start. In 2019, Leah received her Certificate in Child Development from Central New Mexico College. Military life took Leah and her family cross country, where she continued her career as an Assistant/Lead Teacher in Waldorf, Marland. Aside from teaching, Leah and her children have been active in the FACE and First Born programs in the Khapo and surrounding communities. All of which have given Leah the opportunities and experience she has today. Leah’s passion is to be a child advocate, providing tools to help increase student achievement, build confidence, and inspire learning in positive ways. She is looking most forward to continuing her education and career while working with Native children/families and being a part of the strong KCS family!
Ohkay Owingeh
Leah Pacheco is an enrolled member of Ohkay Owingeh. She is a former US Air Force military spouse. Leah has two young children with her husband, Christian Veladre, an enrolled member of Santa Clara. She began her career in 2018 as an Assistant Teacher at the Ohkay Owingeh Head Start. In 2019, Leah received her Certificate in Child Development from Central New Mexico College. Military life took Leah and her family cross country, where she continued her career as an Assistant/Lead Teacher in Waldorf, Marland. Aside from teaching, Leah and her children have been active in the FACE and First Born programs in the Khapo and surrounding communities. All of which have given Leah the opportunities and experience she has today. Leah’s passion is to be a child advocate, providing tools to help increase student achievement, build confidence, and inspire learning in positive ways. She is looking most forward to continuing her education and career while working with Native children/families and being a part of the strong KCS family!
Leah Titla, Educational Assistant
San Ildefonso Pueblo/ Apache
Leah Titla is Pueblo and Apache. She loves traveling, experiencing new things, and working with kids.
San Ildefonso Pueblo/ Apache
Leah Titla is Pueblo and Apache. She loves traveling, experiencing new things, and working with kids.
Nichole Trujillo, Educational Assistant
Ohkay Owingeh / Santa Clara Pueblo
Nichole Trujillo is a member of the Ohkay Owingeh and Santa Clara Pueblos but spent her whole childhood growing up in the Santa Clara Pueblo. She is a mother of two, a son Liam and a daughter Prudence. Both of whom are attending Kha’p’o Community School, following in their mothers’ footsteps since returning home. While away from home, Nichole achieved a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Psychology from New Mexico State University. Her initial plans were to be a doctor, but after having a child who needed a lot of therapy and early intervention, her path changed direction. Working one on one daily with childhood educators, therapists, specialists and other children with special needs she believes she can better serve more children through learning and early intervention. Therefore, with the help of KCS and her community she is continuing to further her growth in early childhood and elementary education.
Ohkay Owingeh / Santa Clara Pueblo
Nichole Trujillo is a member of the Ohkay Owingeh and Santa Clara Pueblos but spent her whole childhood growing up in the Santa Clara Pueblo. She is a mother of two, a son Liam and a daughter Prudence. Both of whom are attending Kha’p’o Community School, following in their mothers’ footsteps since returning home. While away from home, Nichole achieved a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a minor in Psychology from New Mexico State University. Her initial plans were to be a doctor, but after having a child who needed a lot of therapy and early intervention, her path changed direction. Working one on one daily with childhood educators, therapists, specialists and other children with special needs she believes she can better serve more children through learning and early intervention. Therefore, with the help of KCS and her community she is continuing to further her growth in early childhood and elementary education.
Monica Atkinson, Sped Technician
Santa Clara Pueblo
Monica Atkinson is an enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She currently resides in Santa Clara Pueblo and is the mother to her only child, Ryan-Eliase. Monica graduated from West Hills College in Lemoore, CA in 2006 in Early Childhood Development/Early Childhood Education. Since then, she has been working with children from California back to Northern New Mexico. Monica worked at Santa Clara Day School 14 years ago and has been returned to Kha'p'o Community school since 2019. Monica loves her community, her job, and working the kids everyday.
Santa Clara Pueblo
Monica Atkinson is an enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She currently resides in Santa Clara Pueblo and is the mother to her only child, Ryan-Eliase. Monica graduated from West Hills College in Lemoore, CA in 2006 in Early Childhood Development/Early Childhood Education. Since then, she has been working with children from California back to Northern New Mexico. Monica worked at Santa Clara Day School 14 years ago and has been returned to Kha'p'o Community school since 2019. Monica loves her community, her job, and working the kids everyday.
Andrea Cordova, Sped Technician
Andrea Cordova's statement: I have 8 years working with children as a Developmental Specialist. Graduated from Northern New Mexico Community College with an AA in early childhood education and working on finishing BA in Social Work through New Mexico Highlands University. I have 3 girls. I worked at Santa Clara Day school 10 years ago and I enjoyed working with the kids. I am happy to be back.
Andrea Cordova's statement: I have 8 years working with children as a Developmental Specialist. Graduated from Northern New Mexico Community College with an AA in early childhood education and working on finishing BA in Social Work through New Mexico Highlands University. I have 3 girls. I worked at Santa Clara Day school 10 years ago and I enjoyed working with the kids. I am happy to be back.
Steve Marsh, Guidance Counselor
Steve Marsh has been counseling children and families for 28 years in community-based
settings serving Northern New Mexico and the Eight Northern Pueblos. He is beginning his
twentieth year as a school counselor for Santa Clara Pueblo and especially likes working
with elementary students in the school setting as it provides the opportunity to develop long
term and meaningful relationships in support of their social, emotional, and academic
growth.
Steve Marsh has been counseling children and families for 28 years in community-based
settings serving Northern New Mexico and the Eight Northern Pueblos. He is beginning his
twentieth year as a school counselor for Santa Clara Pueblo and especially likes working
with elementary students in the school setting as it provides the opportunity to develop long
term and meaningful relationships in support of their social, emotional, and academic
growth.
Tewa Language Program
Barbara Chavarria, Tewa Language Instructor
Santa Clara Pueblo
Barbara Chavarria is an enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She 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 where she learned strategies in teaching the Tewa Language.
Santa Clara Pueblo
Barbara Chavarria is an enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She 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 where she learned strategies in teaching the Tewa Language.
Paul Chavarria, Tewa Langauge Instructor
Santa Clara Pueblo
Paul Chavarria is the son of Stella Chavarria and the late Loretto "Cruzie" Chavarria. Paul has three children; Taylor, Mason, and Tylie. Mason and Tylie both attend KCS. Paul attended Northern New Mexico Community College where he received his degree in Architectural/ Mechanical drafting. For many years he worked as Computer aid drafter for a private architectural company. From there, he was was a supervisor at the Santa Claran Hotel and Casino for over ten years. This is Paul's first experience in education and as a Tewa Instructor, but he is eager and excited to teach the children our Tewa language. He hopes by being apart of KCS he will help to preserve our Tewa language, cultural and traditions for the future.
Santa Clara Pueblo
Paul Chavarria is the son of Stella Chavarria and the late Loretto "Cruzie" Chavarria. Paul has three children; Taylor, Mason, and Tylie. Mason and Tylie both attend KCS. Paul attended Northern New Mexico Community College where he received his degree in Architectural/ Mechanical drafting. For many years he worked as Computer aid drafter for a private architectural company. From there, he was was a supervisor at the Santa Claran Hotel and Casino for over ten years. This is Paul's first experience in education and as a Tewa Instructor, but he is eager and excited to teach the children our Tewa language. He hopes by being apart of KCS he will help to preserve our Tewa language, cultural and traditions for the future.
Diandra Chavarria, Tewa Teacher Asssistant
Santa Clara Pueblo
My name is Diandra Chavarria. I am joining KCS as an Tewa Teacher Assistant. I am excited about this new opportunity working with the future leaders of the Kha’p’o community. I was born and raised here in Santa Clara Pueblo and am an enrolled member. I come from a traditional family and am very active in the culture here in the pueblo. As a child, I attended KCS when it was the Santa Clara Day School from kindergarten to 6th grade. I chose to work at KCS because I enjoy working with the youth and I am completely on board with the mission that KCS holds, especially in preserving the language and shaping our youth.
Santa Clara Pueblo
My name is Diandra Chavarria. I am joining KCS as an Tewa Teacher Assistant. I am excited about this new opportunity working with the future leaders of the Kha’p’o community. I was born and raised here in Santa Clara Pueblo and am an enrolled member. I come from a traditional family and am very active in the culture here in the pueblo. As a child, I attended KCS when it was the Santa Clara Day School from kindergarten to 6th grade. I chose to work at KCS because I enjoy working with the youth and I am completely on board with the mission that KCS holds, especially in preserving the language and shaping our youth.
Colleen Garcia-Vallo, Cultural Arts Teacher
Santa Clara Pueblo/Acoma Pueblo
Colleen Garcia-Vallo is from Santa Clara Pueblo and Acoma Pueblo. Her passion for the Arts began when she was at a young age. She is excited to meet and work with all of the KCS students and staff.
Santa Clara Pueblo/Acoma Pueblo
Colleen Garcia-Vallo is from Santa Clara Pueblo and Acoma Pueblo. Her passion for the Arts began when she was at a young age. She is excited to meet and work with all of the KCS students and staff.
Operations Department
Jeffery Honowa, Bus Driver
Santa Clara Pueblo/ Hopi
Jeffery Honawa is from Santa Clara Pueblo NM and Hotevilla AZ (Hopi). Jeff is happy to work and be apart of the KCS community. He is happy to be more close to home and he gets to be more involved with the Community. Jeff started his career in education at the Santa Fe Indian School as a Grounds Keeper. Eventually he drifted towards driving buses which in turn led him to KCS. He now intends to help the School become a great success for our Children's Future! Please wave or say hi to Jeff when your on campus.
Camille Moquino. Head Cook
Santa Clara Pueblo
Camille Moquino Is an enrolled tribal member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She is a mother of 4 sons, Mario, Andre, Darwin, and Isaac. Camille has worked with Head Start as a Head Cook for 13 years. She is currently enrolled at NNMC and pursuing her degree in Accounting. She enjoys painting, drawing, creating traditional Santa Clara black on black pottery and ceramic wear. She is very excited to be here with KCS and ready to provide fresh healthy nutritional meals.
Santa Clara Pueblo
Camille Moquino Is an enrolled tribal member of Santa Clara Pueblo. She is a mother of 4 sons, Mario, Andre, Darwin, and Isaac. Camille has worked with Head Start as a Head Cook for 13 years. She is currently enrolled at NNMC and pursuing her degree in Accounting. She enjoys painting, drawing, creating traditional Santa Clara black on black pottery and ceramic wear. She is very excited to be here with KCS and ready to provide fresh healthy nutritional meals.
MaryJune Arquero, Assistant Cook
Cochiti Pueblo
Hello, I am MaryJune Arquero. Your Assistant Cook for your children at Khapo Community School. I am from Cochiti Pueblo and live in Espanola with my two children. My son is Donovan and my daughter is Skyler. I enjoy cooking, baking and sewing. I have my certificate in Professional Cooking and have been cooking for over 20+ years now. I am truly happy working and assisting in cooking for your children at Khapo Community School.
Cochiti Pueblo
Hello, I am MaryJune Arquero. Your Assistant Cook for your children at Khapo Community School. I am from Cochiti Pueblo and live in Espanola with my two children. My son is Donovan and my daughter is Skyler. I enjoy cooking, baking and sewing. I have my certificate in Professional Cooking and have been cooking for over 20+ years now. I am truly happy working and assisting in cooking for your children at Khapo Community School.
Marie John, Health and Wellness Coordinator
Santa Clara Pueblo/Navajo
Marie is the Health and Wellness Coordinator at Kha’p’o’ Community School. 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 in Santa Clara Pueblo. She is an enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo and is 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 at Los Alamos High School.
Marie most enjoys caring for the Kha'p'o Community School students, enhancing school health, planning meaningful programs, and seeing students’ smiling faces every day.
Santa Clara Pueblo/Navajo
Marie is the Health and Wellness Coordinator at Kha’p’o’ Community School. 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 in Santa Clara Pueblo. She is an enrolled member of Santa Clara Pueblo and is 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 at Los Alamos High School.
Marie most enjoys caring for the Kha'p'o Community School students, enhancing school health, planning meaningful programs, and seeing students’ smiling faces every day.
Amelia Sandoval, Custodian
Santa Clara Pueblo
Amelia has worked in customer service and custodial field for six plus years. Her role at KCS as the custodian and number one priority is supplying a clean and safe environment for students while committing to work. Working at KCS, she has embraced new opportunities of learning new things. As a child she attended Santa Clara Pueblo Day School from kindergarten through sixth grade and now her son attends KCS. Amelia is a Santa Clara Pueblo tribal member, she was born and raised in the Pueblo her whole life.
Santa Clara Pueblo
Amelia has worked in customer service and custodial field for six plus years. Her role at KCS as the custodian and number one priority is supplying a clean and safe environment for students while committing to work. Working at KCS, she has embraced new opportunities of learning new things. As a child she attended Santa Clara Pueblo Day School from kindergarten through sixth grade and now her son attends KCS. Amelia is a Santa Clara Pueblo tribal member, she was born and raised in the Pueblo her whole life.
FACE Program
Antoinette Herrera, FACE Coordinator/ 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.
Denica Tafoya, FACE Lead Teacher
Denica Tafoya is from Santo Domingo Pueblo, New Mexico. She is working towards earning her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education with a TESOL endorsement from Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. For the last two years, Denica has been teaching in various classrooms within the Durango 9-R School District while also being a student herself. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, reading, and painting.
Denica Tafoya is from Santo Domingo Pueblo, New Mexico. She is working towards earning her Bachelor's Degree in Early Childhood Education with a TESOL endorsement from Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. For the last two years, Denica has been teaching in various classrooms within the Durango 9-R School District while also being a student herself. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with family, reading, and painting.
Mina Harvier, Parent Educator FACE Program
Mina Harvier is from Santa Clara Pueblo. She enjoys camping, going to concerts and traveling with her husband and 2 children. She has worked at Kha'p'o Community School since the reopening in 2016 and many previous years formerly known as Santa Clara Day School. Mina is currently a Parent Educator with the F.A.C.E. Program, which services prenatal through 5 year olds in a Home Base setting.
Mina Harvier is from Santa Clara Pueblo. She enjoys camping, going to concerts and traveling with her husband and 2 children. She has worked at Kha'p'o Community School since the reopening in 2016 and many previous years formerly known as Santa Clara Day School. Mina is currently a Parent Educator with the F.A.C.E. Program, which services prenatal through 5 year olds in a Home Base setting.
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 the Adult Educator for 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 the Adult Educator for the FACE program.
Lynette Dominguez, FACE Parent Educator
Hello! My name is Lynette Dominguez and I am the new Parent Educator with the FACE Program. I am from Tesuque Pueblo and I enjoy spending time with my family. I was a preschool teacher for the last 6 years and I am currently working towards my associates degree in Early Childhood Education. I look forward to working for the FACE Program and joining the KCS team!
Hello! My name is Lynette Dominguez and I am the new Parent Educator with the FACE Program. I am from Tesuque Pueblo and I enjoy spending time with my family. I was a preschool teacher for the last 6 years and I am currently working towards my associates degree in Early Childhood Education. I look forward to working for the FACE Program and joining the KCS team!
