As a proud alumna of the Santa Fe Public Schools, a two-term school board member and a parent of a Santa Fe High School student, I am thrilled to announce I am running for reelection to represent District 3 on the Santa Fe Public Schools Board of Education.
I believe public education is the most critical and necessary system in our society. It is nothing less than one of the foundations of our civilization and the defining institution for our community. It is an incredible collaborative effort that demands we work together to steward our most precious resource through each hour, day and school year. It is the greatest promise we make one another, knowing that all children deserve a chance to access opportunities and unlock their greatest potential.
There are huge demands on everyone involved in this great effort. Teachers, bus drivers, cafeteria workers, counselors, nurses, special education professionals, custodians, security and crossing guards, all the front-line staff commit their valuable lifetime and expertise. They face immense challenges because schools reflect the issues of our times, from fears about immigration issues or social anger and unrest to destructive TikTok trends and toxic social media.
Principals and district leaders navigate complex regulations and unpredictable politics, while working to maintain stability, clarity and safety for students and staff. Parents and family members navigate requirements, jargon and schedules, and too often have to advocate or even fight for answers and improvements for the students in their lives. The job of the school board is to serve this system and the people in it, with decisions, discussions and priorities firmly rooted in what is best for students, and a commitment to delivering the highest quality education and experience each day.
And there are accomplishments, big and small, individual and collaborative, too numerous to count. At school board meetings, we see a few of these each month in the presentations for our School Board Showcase. We have seen coding and robotics challenges, musical performances, amazing visual arts, student-made videos, school spirit activities, anti-bullying efforts, startup businesses and many more initiatives that inspire great joy, pride and powerful emotions from the audience.
Still, there is so much more to do. In an era of uncertainty and declining trust in public systems, I know my experience and commitment to public education can make a difference. I am fired up to work hard, ask good questions, make difficult choices and always focus on what’s best for kids. I have been honored to serve these eight years and am eager to continue my service in passionate pursuit of a better Santa Fe Public Schools. We owe this community, and we owe the children of Santa Fe, the best possible education we can deliver. I am committed with every part of myself to this institution, public education, the most critical and necessary system in our society.
Kate Noble has represented District 3 on the Santa Fe Public Schools Board of Education since 2017. She was born and raised in Santa Fe, and is a proud SFPS parent and graduate. She is also president and CEO of Growing Up New Mexico, an early childhood-focused community organization.
View and share this op-ed that was published in the Santa Fe New Mexican.
Paid for by Kate Noble for Schools, Jennifer Stennis, Treasurer