NW New Mexico News

Students from Kirtland Central High School participated in CTSO Day at the Roundhouse in Santa Fe, New Mexico, on January 23-24, 2025. The event brought together approximately 500 members of Career Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs) from across the state to engage with legislators and advocate for continued funding.

During the two-day event, students received an educational overview of the New Mexico Legislature from Senator Nathan P. Small and participated in activities such as a scavenger hunt through the Roundhouse. They also had direct interactions with several state representatives and senators, including Representatives Joshua N. Hernandez and Alan T. Martinez, as well as Senators Mark Duncan, Nathan Small, Pat Woods, and William Sharer.

The students focused their advocacy efforts on highlighting the importance of CTSO funding. They shared personal stories about how their programs raise funds for activities and competitions and learned about last year's student advocacy efforts that helped prevent funding cuts. Senator Pat Woods provided insight into the legislative process by sharing copies of a bill he was working on.

Ms. Foster, a teacher at KCHS, remarked on the significance of this opportunity for students to voice their concerns: “This was a great opportunity for our students to voice their concerns and their importance to CTSO… Students need to learn and speak up for their interest.” A representative encouraged them by saying, “Even though you are a high school student you still have a voice, make sure that you are heard and make it known that you have a voice.”

Several KCHS students shared their experiences:

Madison appreciated advocating for increased CTSO funding; Isabella called her meeting with Representative Martinez one of her best experiences; Emily valued learning about both advocacy and capitol history; Phillip gained insights into the legislative process; Caleb discussed Navajo Nation plans with Representative Hernandez; Darius talked about school finance with legislators; Isaac highlighted seeing legislators shaping New Mexico’s future; Kayla found learning about legislative roles resourceful; Patieya emphasized making student voices heard; Jacob engaged in discussions about community engagement with Representative Hernandez.

Mrs. Yazzie, an FCCLA advisor, expressed amazement at the students’ involvement: "The project creation that develops and tests real-world business and problem-solving skills is a great example of how to develop tomorrow’s leaders and business professionals today," said Mr. Holyan.

CTSOs like BPA, FCCLA, Educators Rising, TSA, DECA, HOSA, FFA, and SkillsUSA provide opportunities for leadership development among students at Kirtland Central High School.