Index to Voters' Guide

Local Leagues in New Mexico

Public Education Commission districts

Public Education Commission

The Public Education Commission was formed as a result the passage of Constitutional Amendment #1 passed by the voters in a special election in September 2003. The Commission consists of 10 elected members. The Commission determines public school and vocational education policy and controls, manages, and directs all public schools under provisions of applicable laws. Four-year term. Must be at least eighteen years of age, must be a United States citizen and must reside in the district he/she represents. Ten members are elected to represent districts.

PEC District 3

Carmie LynnToulouse, Democratic Pary candidate for PEC District 3

Carmie Lynn Toulouse
Democratic Party

1. Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Public Education Commissioner. (65 words)

I was on the CNM governing board for 12 years. I was on the Association Community College Trustees national board for 5 years. I am also the mother of two and grandmother of five, 3 of which attend charter schools.

2. If elected, what are your two highest priorities? What specific actions will you take to accomplish them? (65 words)

My first priority is to learn exactly how this commission works with the Department of Public of Education and then I will use my skills to help the two entities work more closely together. My second priority is to work with the smaller school districts to help facilitate their connection with the large State Department of Education.

3. How can the Public Education Commission help New Mexico schools and colleges provide public education that prepares our children for the opportunities, responsibilities and challenges of the next 20 years? (65 words)

The Public Education Commission can help by serving as the communications connection between the Department and various boards and commissions.

Vanessa Leigh Gutierrez, Democratic Party candidate for PEC District 3

Vanessa Leigh Gutierrez
Democratic Party (write-in)

1. Describe your specific experience and abilities that prepare you for the office of Public Education Commissioner. (65 words)

As an Education Activist, I have worked closely with those who inhabit the classroom; Educators and Students. These individuals have provided me with accounts of the necessities needed to bring success not only to the classroom, but to the students, as I have educated them academically, socially, and emotionally through programs aimed to increase resources and success in their lives as well as their communities

2. If elected, what are your two highest priorities? What specific actions will you take to accomplish them? (65 words)

Reform of Strategic Issues and Student/Teacher Achievement. Priority of Strategic Issues needs to be reformed and implemented. This includes the education budget as it needs to be reallocated towards realistic goals that can be accomplished in the near future. Reallocation of funding towards resources and teachers will lead to an exponential growth in Student/Teacher Achievement as well as higher education. participation.

3. How can the Public Education Commission help New Mexico schools and colleges provide public education that prepares our children for the opportunities, responsibilities and challenges of the next 20 years? (65 words)

The PEC will help New Mexico schools by remaining educated on the needs of the Public Education System as we provide responsible decisions for the greater good of the educators and students. Thus, maintaining and implementing the efficiency needed to provide Educators and Students the tools necessary to grow and sustain New Mexico now, and in 20 years.

PEC District 8

Vince N. Bergman
Republican Party

UNOPPOSED

PEC District 10

Jeff Carr
Democratic Party

UNOPPOSED

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