Grants Cibola County Schools proudly hosted the first-ever GCCS Tribal Education Summit
on December 3rd at the GCCS Central Office Training Room. This historic event was held in
partnership with Tribal Leadership from the Pueblo of Acoma and the Pueblo of Laguna.
While partnerships with the Department of Diné Education continue to grow, parents, key
stakeholders, and Education Representatives from all three Tribal communities were
present and engaged throughout the day.
Nearly 40 attendees gathered to review and discuss critical areas of focus for Native
American GCCS students, including academic progress, attendance, funding, and the
implementation of Yazzie-Martinez interventions designed to support student learning and
instructional improvement across the district. GCCS was also honored to welcome a team
from the New Mexico Public Education Department, including GCCS’ own Deputy Secretary
of Indian Education, Katie Ann Juanico—a proud 2006 graduate of Grants High School.
The Summit provided an opportunity for meaningful dialogue, collaboration, and the
exchange of ideas centered on improving outcomes for students and strengthening
connections with the culturally diverse communities served by GCCS. As the first meeting of
its kind in the district, the gathering marked an important step toward deeper partnership
and shared commitment to student success.
GCCS extends sincere appreciation to all employees who participated in the
event—principals, teachers, coordinators, Title VI liaisons, and directors—and offers special
recognition to Nolan Valdo, GCCS Indian Education Coordinator, whose leadership and
dedication made this Summit possible. Additionally two of our board members were in
attendance and engaged in the conversations.
The district looks forward to continuing these meetings and moving forward together for
the betterment, health, and wellness of all GCCS students.