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• 2024 All District Awarded to Three Volleyball Team Members
• Raton Volleyball Finish in Top 6
• Raton High School Holds 5th Annual Career Day
• RHS Volleyball Qualifies for NMAA & Surpasses 300 Kills
• Raton Cross Country Competes in State Championships
• Raton High School Honor Roll
• Raton Vollleyball Winners!
• Raton Tigers Powderpuff Game
• 2024 Raton High School Homecoming Candidates
• Longfellow School – Fun and Festivities at Fall Festival
• A Student’s Perspective on the School Lockdown – Featured News
• 2024-2025 Raton High School Senior Spotlight
• Raton High School Menu 9-17 through 9-20
• Raton High School Celebrates Students Awarded with Academic Honors from College Board National Recognition Program
• 2024 Raton High School US Presidential Scholars Program Nominees
• 2024 Raton Schools September Menu
• Reflections on Back to School at Raton High by Faith Howard
• 2024 Raton Schools Summer Lunch Program
• 2024 Raton High School Commencement
• Raton Public Schools Summer Lunch Calendar
• Ernest Brown Memorial Scholarship Winners
• RHS FCCLA Celebrates Achievements at End of Year Banquet
• National Dance Institute at Raton Intermediate School
• Global Warming Express (GWE) Outline Recycling Plan
• 2024 Renewable Energy Graduates
• RHS Students Earned Santa Fe Community College and Mesalands Community College Certificates
• Raton High School Prom King and Queen
• Raton Intermediate School Athletic Award Ceremony
• Raton Softball in Full Swing
• Raton High School Softball Team takes Win over Portales
• Social Emotional Learning Awards Ceremony
• 2024 Raton High School NM Boys State Representatives
• RHS Honor Roll – 3rd Quarter
• Tierra Garrett Awarded Voice of Democracy Scholarship
• Raton High School holds first Power Lifting Meet
• Tiger Fest Celebrations at Raton Public Schools
• 4th Annual Career Day at RHS
• Rural Opportunities for
• College Access New Mexico
• Raton Drone Project
• Longfellow and Intermediate School Menu Calendar
• Raton School Bond Issue Fact Sheet
• 2023 Raton High School US Presidential Scholars Program Nominees
• 2023-2024 Raton High School Senior Spotlight
• Tiger Den Wellness Center
• 2023-24 Junior Rotarians
• Raton Public Schools Welcomes New Pre-K Students
• School Bond Issue
• Letter from new High School Principal Joleene Starr

2024 All District Awarded to Three Volleyball Team Members

Jennifer Mattorano, Aubrey Valdez and Addison Medina awarded All District 2024

Raton Volleyball Finish in Top 6

Posted November 17, 2024

The Raton High School Lady Tigers Volleyball team made it to the state tournament seeded #12, and finished in the top 6. After advancing with wins against Lordsburg and Questa, they fell to Laguna Acoma in the semi finals. According MaxPreps Addison Medina was named player of the match on November 15 against Laguna Acoma in which Raton fell to Laguna Acoma 3-1.

Some of the highlights of the RHS volleyball season:
– Juliani Plazola hit 146 digs in 1 season
– Addison Medina finished with 80 career aces, 1035 career assists placing her 12th in the state of New Mexico for assists.
– Jennifer Mattorano finished with 355 career kills placing her 7th in 2A, 280 career digs, 365 career service receptions.
– Paige Lemons finished with 140 career blocks placing her 13th in the state of New Mexico.
– Elaina Gigante finished her career with 72 career digs in 1 season.
– Anisia Martinez finished her career with 202 career kills and 270 career service receptions.
– Tess Chatterley finished the season with a total of 83 career kills.
– Aubrey Valdez finished her career with 148 total career blocks placing her 8th in the state of New Mexico, 73 career aces placing her 24th in the state.

Thank you for your hard work, time, and inspiration Head Coach Sara Lark and Assistant Coaches Jadyn Walton, C. Miletta, C. Mattorano, and Ce Ce Neurauter.

Raton High School Holds 5th Annual Career Day

Posted November 14, 2024. Written by Lynette Simpson

Raton High School would like to express our thanks and gratitude to all of the community organizations who sponsored our Career Conference as well as the presenters who shared their careers with our students.  On Wednesday, November 13, 2023, sixteen careers were showcased at RHS campus for the 5^th Annual Career Conference.  Each career field presenter shared valuable information concerning what education is required to get into the field, what classes students should focus on in high school, etc. while also incorporating a “hands-on” activity for students.  Each presenter spoke to 6 classrooms of students.  It was an excitingly packed educational day for everyone and the information students received was invaluable.  Students networked and made connections with members of the Raton community, and even a few received job offers!! 

Thank you to the Raton Public Schools Cafeteria Staff who provided a wonderful Thanksgiving Lunch with all the trimmings!

Thank you to The Raton Crimestoppers and Raton Tiger Booster Club for donating gift cards and tiger merchandise for an ending session raffle.

Thank you to the following presenters who took time off from their own jobs to be with our students.  You are appreciated so much for sharing your expertise with our students.  They didn’t realize they were learning; they thought it was just a fun day!

City of Raton Municipal Court: Judge Christina Piancino
City of Trinidad-Outdoor Recreation: Jared Chatterley
Trinidad State College Cosmetology Department: Brook Gonzales, Isabella Salazar, Ace Fearo, Destiny Sanchez, and Katrina James
Speech and Language Pathology: Corey Mattorano
Raton Public Schools Ed Fellows Program: Kaylee Maes and Noah Weese
MCMC Med Surg Department: Jennifer Espinoza, Elizabeth Medina, and Paige
Oriental Medicine: Dr. Caleb Stolarcyzk, Mystic Mountain Healthcare, LLC
Trinidad Corrections Facility: Captain Mascarenas, Sgt. Moises Ortiz, and Olivia Bacca (AA3)
Phil Long Ford of Raton: Shannon Portillos and Dimitri Wiseman
NM Game and Fish: Corporal Matt Ordonez and Tess Peterman
NM State Police/Criminal Investigation: Lt Ryan Boone, Officer Chavez, and Officer Benway
El Raton Media Works: Ann Theis, Jose Lopez, and Christeana Piancino
City of Raton Fire and EMS Department: Chief Anthony Burk, EMS Chief Dusty Russell, Captain Jacob Butt, Firefighters: Jacob Gass, Drew Long, Shawn Smith, Patrick Trujillo, Tucker Hariston, Tim Burtookie
Graphic Design/Center for Community Innovation: Patricia Duran
Raton Motor Pass Inn/Entrepreneurship: Brandy Dietz
Vermejo Park Ranch: A Ted Turner Preserve: Chef Giovanni Lanzanetti, Eric Franks, and Deshawn Oldham

Photos provided by Lynette Simpson

Raton Volleyball Qualifies for 2A – Celebrates 300 Kills

Raton Cross Country Competes in State Championships

Posted November 10, 2024

Raton High School Cross Country team was able to compete in the state championships in spite of the blizzard that covered Raton with several feet of snow. By Friday, because of the road closures, the team didn’t think they would be able to get to Albuquerque for the state competition. Thankfully, the state and local road crews cleared the roads and the team was able to make the trip.

This year RHS sent the girl’s team for the first time, and the boys returned for their second year. RHS finished 11th out of 17 teams. Great job RHS Cross Country!

Raton High School Honor Roll

Posted November 9, 2024

Raton Vollleyball Winners!

Posted October 28, 2024

Volleyball Recap!

Raton won the last time they faced Pecos, and things went their way on Saturday too. The Raton Tigers sure made it a nail-biter, but they managed to escape with a 3-2 win over the Pecos Panthers. The victory made it back-to-back wins for the Tigers.

Raton had a slow start but a hot finish: after dropping the first two sets, they turned around to win the next three. The match finished with set scores of 22-25, 16-25, 25-14, 25-21, 22-20.

Paige Lemons paced Raton’s offense, picking up 11 kills. Lemons got some help from Addison Medina and her 21 assists. Jennifer Mattorano controlled things from the service line, finishing with five aces.

Raton’s record is now 12-6. As for Pecos, they have traveled a rocky road recently having lost five of their last six contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 7-11 record this season.

Raton will host Estancia at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday.

Congratulations to Lady Tiger Setter, Addison Medina!

Addison Medina who surpassed 800 career assists as of Thursday night’s win over the Clayton Yellowjackets. She is well on her way to hitting 1,000 this season!!!

Raton Tigers Powderpuff game

Posted October 13, 2024

The Raton Tigers Powederpuff game was held at Tiger Jungle on Wednesday October 11, 2024. The following photos were taken from the Facebook posted videos by Tina Vigil-Torres.

2024 Raton High School Homecoming Candidates

Photos courtesy of Holly Mayfield

2024 RHS Homecoming Queen candidates: Aubrey Valdez, Alex Romero,Brooklyn Ulibarri-Marquez, Elaina Gigante, Anisia Martinez, Hailey Baca.

King candidates: Clayton Kelley, Josh Lopez, Moses Bueno, Cannon Walton, Joseph Saenz. Not pictured:  Deacon Alderette.

Candidates show their support of Breast Cancer Awareness in bottom photo.

2024-2025 Raton High School Senior Spotlight

• Selene Alford
• Lacey Amparan
• Hailey Jo Bacca
• Kai Casados
• Devany Chavira-Alvidrez
• Lakken Cuevas-Martinez
• Elaine Gigante
• Dametrius Austin Gum
• Faith Howard
• Izarias Justin Lucero
• Abenecio Leroy Mae
• Chase Middlebrook
• Miabella Molina
• Miguel Olvera
• Olympia Parker
• Alexandra Romero
• Russell Jared Simmons
• Arianna Rayne Swanson
• Jared Vasquez
• Gabriela Vega

Faith Elizabeth Howard, daughter of Karry and Nicole Howard

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?
Maybe a lawyer, or something in that nature
What is your favorite color?
Pink
What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?
Alfredo, my mom
What is your favorite song and why?
Undefeatable, it’s from one of my favorite game series
What are your Hobbies?
Drawing and playing games
What do you like best about RHS?
I like that I can take Dual Credit Classes
What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
My Grades
What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?
A lot of new math concepts
What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?
Hopefully working in a stable job
Do you have any advice for younger students?
Don’t Procrastinate

Lakken Rayne Cuevas-Martinez, daughter of Juanita Cuevas and Andy Martinez

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?
A registered nurse
What is your favorite color?
My favorite color is blue
What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?
My mom’s tacos
What is your favorite song and why?
Untouchable by Youngboy. It always hits the spot
What are your Hobbies?
Hang out with friends, play basketball, and going shopping
What do you like best about RHS?
That it is not big and everyone knows everyone
What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
Becoming a senior
What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?
It helped me get out of my comfort zone
What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?
Living in Arizona and making money
Do you have any advice for younger students?
Being different isn’t a bad thing

Lacey Lynette Amparan, daughter of Michael Amparan

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be an EMT
What is your favorite color?
Dark Red
What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?
I don’t have one
What is your favorite song and why?
You Should Probably Leave by Chris Stapleton
What are your Hobbies?
I like to draw, cook, work, and read
What do you like best about RHS?
I like how welcoming the students are
What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
Graduating Early
What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?
Medical Terminology
What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?
Hopefully I will have a family and a good job
Do you have any advice for younger students?
People are gonna try to stop you from achieving your dreams. Don’t let them.

Olympia Ann Parker, Daughter of William Parker

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be a Vet Tech
What is your favorite color?
Pink
What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?
My favorite meal is Tacos made by my dad
What is your favorite song and why?
My favorite song is Red Clay by Kidd g because it’s such a good song
What are your Hobbies?
I like to draw and ride horses
What do you like best about RHS?
The teachers
What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
Getting good grades and graduating
What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?
How to make a yearbook
What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?
I think I’ll be working at a vet clinic and seeing the world
Do you have any advice for younger students?
Never give up on your dreams

Jared Nathan Vasquez, Jr.  son of Jared Vasquez

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?
A Robotic Engineer
What is your favorite color?
lime
What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?
Croissants from anywhere
What is your favorite song and why?
Mr Blue Sky by E.L.O. because it’s such an upbeat song
What are your Hobbies?
Reading, Playing video games, and theater
What do you like best about RHS?
My friends and teachers
What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
Being selected to NM Boy’s State
What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?
How to do math so well
What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?
Hopefully Robotics
Do you have any advice for younger students?
Learn all you can now so you can benefit from it in the future

Miabella Star Molina, daughter of Velvet Ballista and Jason Molina

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?
A psychologist

What is your favorite color?
Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?
Tinga and I usually make it for myself

What is your favorite song and why?
When I was your man by Bruno Mars. It really shows and describes how most people don’t realize what they have until they lose it.

What are your Hobbies?
Reading, cooking, listening to music, and playing games with my brother

What do you like best about RHS?
I like how small each classroom is

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
Making it farther than my parents did

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?
How much I do not like people

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?
Hopefully I will be a psychologist or therapist living in a small but comfortable house by myself

Do you have any advice for younger students?
Always make an effort to meet new people whether they are good or bad, they may teach you something.

Russell Jared Simmons, son of Jared and Ailene Simmons

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
Some kind of doctor in the military

What is your favorite color? 
Gray

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Adobo and Rice that my mom makes

What is your favorite song and why? 
Yellow Bedletter by Pearl jam because of how unique it sounds

What are your Hobbies?
Fishing

What do you like best about RHS? 
Everyone is pretty chill with each other

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Not dropping out

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
I don’t like online classes

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Hopefully still in the military or something medicine related

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Don’t put too much on yourself

Abenecio Leroy Maes, son of Heather Bell and Abenecio Maes

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
I want to be a gunsmith or go into the military

What is your favorite color? 
Red

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Biscuits and gravy that my mom makes

What is your favorite song and why? 
Love and War by Kodak Black

What are your Hobbies?  
Cooking, fixing things, and cruising

What do you like best about RHS? 
That they are trying to understand us better

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Graduating

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
Why people are how they are

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Hopefully I am in Florida

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Keep your head up, it gets better!

Elaina Grace Gigante, daughter of Lawrence and Margaret Gigante

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
Respiratory Therapist

What is your favorite color? 
Cyan

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?
My dad’s steak

What is your favorite song and why? 
Anything by Megan Moroney and Zach Bryan

What are your Hobbies?  
Volleyball, Softball, Fishing, Hunting, and Camping

What do you like best about RHS? 
It offers free college classes through SFCC

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Being in the top 3 of my class

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
Learning Phlebotomy

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Working as a respiratory therapist

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Don’t be dumb

Kai Casados, son of Patricia Draper Casados and Richard Casados

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
I want to be a an attorney representing children in court

What is your favorite color? 
Sage Green

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Spahetti, made by my sister Jazmin

What is your favorite song and why? 
My Tears Ricochet by Taylor Swift.  It’s poetic

What are your Hobbies?  
Reading, Writing, and going on walks

What do you like best about RHS? 
People being open-minded for the most part

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Getting good grades

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
I learned more about different cultures

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
I’ll hopefully be pursuing the career I want

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Having one good friend is worth more than having a million fake friends

Gabriela Vega, daughter of Albert and Denise Navarrette

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
An Ultrasound Tech

What is your favorite color? 
Black and Dark Green

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Mustard Chicken that my mom makes

What is your favorite song and why? 
Besitos by Selena y los Dinos because it is such a good song

What are your Hobbies?  
Reading, coloring, listening to music and hanging out with my sister

What do you like best about RHS? 
The teachers

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
That I am going to graduate with a phlebotomy certificate

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
How to make a yearbook

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Working as an ultrasound tech and married with kids

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Always take the opportunity to have fun and never take the little things for granted

Selene Ida Alford , daughter of Lance and Alysa Alford

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
Cosmetologist

What is your favorite color? 
Navy Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Meatloaf my mom makes

What is your favorite song and why? 
Wicked Ways by Mass of Men, Eva and Bring me to life by Evanescence

What are your Hobbies?  
Drawing and Painting

What do you like best about RHS? 
The Teachers (Mr. Peterman)

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
Being able to make it this far

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
The teachers actually care about you

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Working and being able to take care of my family

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Don’t take things for granted

Arianna Rayne Swanson, daughter of John and Marina Swanson

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
X-ray Technician

What is your favorite color? 
Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Tacos made by dad

What is your favorite song and why? 
Scarlet Begonias because it’s a good song

What are your Hobbies?  
Crochet

What do you like best about RHS? 
The campus

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
I made Honor Guard my junior year

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
How to budget

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Living Life

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Don’t procrastinate

Alexandra Suzanne Romero, daughter of Gina & Nick Gallegos and Tony Romero

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
Homicide Detective

What is your favorite color? 
Carolina Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Stuffed Shells my mom makes

What is your favorite song and why? 
Dejavu by JCole.  I like the meaning

What are your Hobbies?  
Softball, Basketball, and Shopping

What do you like best about RHS? 
The college classes it offers for free and Cody Ayon

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Earning my certificate in Criminal Investigation through SFCC

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
Law Class

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Working as a state police officer

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Don’t live in regret

Chase Tyler Middlebrook, son of Robin Martinez and Ryan Middlebrook

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
A contractor

What is your favorite color? 
Turquoise Green

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
My mom’s Lasagna

What is your favorite song and why? 
Tore Me Up by Gavin Adcock.  It’s Tuff

What are your Hobbies?  
Videogames, Sports, and Cars

What do you like best about RHS? 
Our old school colors

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Not getting into serious trouble

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
School isn’t for me

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Working as a contractor

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Don’t make school harder than it has to be

Miguel Angel Olvera, son of Norma Alvarez and Miguel Olvera

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
An Electrician

What is your favorite color? 
Red

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Mom’s potato salad

What is your favorite song and why? 
Descansando, you never know when it might be your time so appreciate the things you have now.

What are your Hobbies?  
Football

What do you like best about RHS? 
The sports

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Getting to 12^th grade and Graduating

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
What to do with money

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Working hard for a good, stable life

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Giving up early means you miss everything you could have been

Izarias Justin Lucero, son of Angel Acevedo and Manuel Lucero

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
Gunsmith

What is your favorite color? 
Purple

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
My mom’s chicken alfredo

What is your favorite song and why? 
“War with us” by youngboy.  It’s a classic

What are your Hobbies?  
Cruising, Going to the range, and hanging out with friends

What do you like best about RHS? 
The size, I know most of my peers

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Making it this far and Graduating

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
I learned about careers during career day

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Gunsmithing in Texas or Tennessee

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Hold yourself accountable without blaming others

Dametrius Austin Gum, son of Rosezena Perry and Jason Gum

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
Chef

What is your favorite color? 
Vintage Aqua

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Fried tilapia by my mom

What is your favorite song and why? 
Nothin’ At All by Chuuwee & Trizz ft Skoolie 300

What are your Hobbies?  
Racing, riding dirt bikes, working on cars, and cooking

What do you like best about RHS? 
The Zen Den

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Never giving up

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
How to 3-D Print

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Owning a successful restaurant and having a family

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
If there’s people holding you back, enter the fast lane and pass them

Hailey Jo Bacca, daughter of Billie Jo Bacca

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
I would like to be a nurse or an ultrasound tech

What is your favorite color? 
Pink!  I love pink

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Steak and Chicken Alfredo.  My mom makes it with love

What is your favorite song and why? 
Super Bass by Nicki Minaj.  I love her music

What are your Hobbies?  
Volleyball, playing video games, cooking, and baking

What do you like best about RHS?
The friends I made and the teachers

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Being top 5 in my class

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
Phlebotomy

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
Traveling, seeing the world and having my career in nursing with my pink scrubs and crumbl cookies

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Always be positive and kind, keep a heart of gold

Devany Chavira-Alvidrez, daughter of Erica Alvidrez and Heriberto Chavira

What do you think you want to be when you grow up? 
I plan to work as a radiology tech

What is your favorite color? 
Purple

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? 
Whatever my parents make

What is your favorite song and why? 
I don’t have a favorite song

What are your Hobbies?  
I love baking and hanging out with friends

What do you like best about RHS? 
How nice the teachers are

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? 
Graduating and getting good grades

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn? 
How fast time goes by

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  
I see myself owning my own home and having a well paid job

Do you have any advice for younger students? 
Be positive, make memories, and don’t fail your classes

Raton High School Track Team Grows

Posted September 29, 2024

In 2019 the Raton High School cross country track team started with 6 student athletes, 5 boys and 1 girl. They travelled to and from meets in a suburban with one coach. In 2020 the team received a grant from the Brooks Running Club, for 14K. With the money they were able to get new uniforms and a canopy and new running shoes for each member of the team. The team numbers have grown in our short time. RHS track team just placed 3rd in District and a 7th place finish at state. In 2024 the team travels in the Tigers athletic bus with three coaches both a boy’s and girl’s team.

Posted September 10, 2024

Raton High School Celebrates Students Awarded with Academic Honors from College Board National Recognition Program

Students at Raton High School earned academic honors from the College Board National Recognition Program.  The Program celebrate the hard work of high school students nationwide to help them display their strong academic performance.

For the first time, the academic honors recognize first-generation students, in addition to rural and small town, Black, Indigenous, and Hispanic students.  The program opens college access for more students because many institutions use the awards for their recruitment efforts. 

“We are thrilled to celebrate our students and recognize them for the great work they have been doing.  We are proud of their strong academic performance in the classroom and on the PSAT/College Board assessments,” said Lynette Simpson, RHS School Counselor.  “This honor reinforces their individuality and achievements.” 

Students were eligible for these awards based upon a combination of criteria:  high GPA, scoring in the top 10% of the state, and meeting one of the special student characteristics. 

Congratulations to the following students for being nationally recognized:

Hispanic Recognition Award:

L to R:  Standing:  Kaydence-Murcia-Trujillo (12^th) Hailey Bacca(12^th)
              Sitting:  Aubrey Valdez(12^th), Addison Medina (11^th), Elaina Gigante(12^th)

National Rural and Small Town Recognition Award:

L to R:  Standing:  Indio Ward(11^th), Faith Howard(12^th), Kaydence Murcia-Trujillo(12^th), Hailey Bacca  
                                 (12^th), Elijah Kenney (11^th)
               Sitting:  Aubrey Valdez(12^th), Addison Medina (11^th), Elaina Gigante(12^th)
Not pictures:  Russell Simmons(12^th)

First-Generation Recognition Award:

L to R:  Elijah Kenney(11^th) and Indio Ward(11^th)

Longfellow School – Fun and Festivities at Fall Festival

Posted September 29, 2024 – Contributed by Ashley Edmundson and Leonore Barfield

The Longfellow School Fall Festival was very successful and provided fun festivities for teachers, students, parents, and families. Approximately 200  to 250 attendees purchased tickets for food and games for the two-hour event with the proceeds going into the student fund for a variety of supplies and activities including literacy night baskets, programs, movie days, field trips, and other and needs.

The entire event was planned and put on by Longfellow staff with help from local DJ Noby Gomez, who donated his time to play festive music that created a fun carnival atmosphere. One dedicated and tireless volunteer, Leonore Barfield, with Growing Great Kids, was there giving away free books and selling tickets for a painting by Carl Swanson. Tickets for the painting will be available until the Drawing on October 1, 2024, when the winner will be announced on KRTN, Facebook, and posted on The Ratonian.

Photos by Frank Mahannah and Leonore Barfield

2024 Raton High School US Presidential Scholars Program Nominees

The US Presidential Scholars program was established in 1964 and have honored over 8000 outstanding high school seniors.  It was first based on recognition solely on academic excellence, but in 2016 the program started recognizing students who were outstanding in the CTE fields as well.  In addition to Academics and CTE, students are nominated for their involvement and service in their school and communities, leadership and character, writing samples, extraordinary achievements, and overcoming an obstacle. There are 4 phases of the program and at each stage the field gets narrower and at the end 3 students (1 Academic boy, 1 Academic girl, and 1 CTE student) from New Mexico will be chosen to go to Washington DC to be presented a Presidential medallion at a White House ceremony. 

Raton High School is pleased to announce Raton High School’s 2024-2025 nominees as:

(LtoR)    Academic—Cannon Walton, son of Brock and Ashley Walton
              Academic—Anisia Martinez, daughter of Brianne Hernandez
              CTE—Clayton Kelley, son of James and Victoria Kelley

Posted September 13, 2024

Posted August 30, 2024

2024 Raton Schools September Menu

Reflections on Back to School at Raton High

Published August 24, 2024 Written by Faith Howard

Between the lingering hot air and changing seasons, school was again back in session. Personally, I was not excited to be back, as it was my senior year, and leaving high school for good sounded completely foreign to me. Despite my nerves, because I know that the first day of school would lay the foundation for the rest of the year, I was determined to have a good day. This was made easy by the welcoming teachers and staff who have everything set up to ensure success for students. Most students had gone to the Jumpstart event a few days ago, which is an orientation event held by and at the school. Teachers had booths for everything one may need to ease students into their school, including parking passes, nurse forms, and the ability for students to get their schedules and Chromebooks early, making the return just a bit easier. The 7th and 8th graders attended the Summit, their version of Jumpstart (also held at the high school) that provided an early opportunity for students to learn about their new school. Middle school students started school on the 14th, while high school students started on the 15th.

Many procedures were changed this year. For example, to streamline the process, an extra exit was added for dropping off and picking up students. While the normal exit leads to the front of the school, the extra exit is behind the school. Picking up students is prohibited in any other area. Another change is schedule-wise, students get out ten minutes earlier than last year, making the school schedule from 8:25 AM to 3:30 PM. Starting in September, every other Wednesday students will be released an hour earlier.

On the first day of school this year, seniors got up at 5:00 AM to watch the sunrise, and the football players had a scrimmage in Taos. All in all, I hope everyone had a great first day, and I am excited to see what the 2024-2025 school year brings.

Posted August 24, 2024

2024 Raton Schools August Menu

Posted May 25, 2024

2024 Raton High School Commencement

The 139th Commencement of Raton High School on May 17, 2024, held in the Tiger Gymnasium celebrated the graduation of 46 seniors.

The evening opened with the procession of seniors into the Tiger Gymnasium during the playing of the traditional “Pomp and Circumstance” by Edward I. Elgar followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by senior Isaac Garcia and the national anthem performed by senior Tyleigh Valdez. Senior Reyna Marquez provided the welcome speech and Class President Nefertiti Yoon continued the traditional passing of the key to upcoming senior and 2025 Class President Anisia Martinez.

RHS Principal Joleen Starr presented the Principal’s Award to Robert Wick, Deznie Montoya and Isaiah Garcia. Ms. Starr introduced Salutatorian Tyleigh Valdez and Valedictorian Christian Kamp who both provided inspiring, motivational speeches. Keynote speaker Bernard Sandoval reminded the graduating seniors that although one may have talent, the skills in which one has talent must be practiced and honed for that talent to lead to success.

Other introductions and honors went to the National Honor Society members, the dual credit participants, Educational Excellence Awards for 4.0 and 3.5 grade point averages, Presidential Educational Excellence Awards, and Junior Rotarians. Principal Starr presented the requirements for graduation and Superintendent Kristie Medina officially Accepted the Class of 2024 and longtime local celebrity Billy Donati, owner/DJ for KRTN radio, presented the Class of 2024 Graduates.

The time-honored tradition of students being called forward to receive their diplomas followed by the turning of the tassels brought the evening to a triumphant close.

Visit the 2025 Raton High School Graduating Seniors page to view senior photos.

The following photos provided by Frank Mahannah.

A Little Extra Flair

Several graduating seniors added a little extra flair to their caps for the graduation ceremony.

Posted May 18, 2024

Ernest Brown Memorial Scholarship Winners

Left to Right:
Christian Kamp $1500
Samantha Phillips $2000
Daechelle Silva $1000

Congratulations to all 3 of you! You all have very bright futures!

Posted May 18, 2024

RHS FCCLA Celebrates Achievements at End of Year Banquet

The Raton High School Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) chapter came together Wednesday, May 15, 2024 for the end of the year banquet to honor members and install the new officer team for the 2024-2025 school year.

The evening began with a delicious steak dinner, allowing attendees to mingle and catch up before the ceremonies. The banquet hall was decorated by the chapter officers in the red and black colors of FCCLA.

The highlight was the awards ceremony where outstanding members were recognized for their hard work and dedication throughout the year. Several students were honored with certificates for their accomplishments in FCCLA STAR Event competitions, meeting attendance, participation, and participation in fundraisers.

The 2024-2025 new officer team were also installed.  The new officers expressed excitement to continue the chapter’s successes, fundraising events, encourage more members to participate in competitions and
increase the chapter’s membership. We are proud to announce the 2024-2025 officer team as follows:

Karson Burk, Chapter President
Tracy Hall, Chapter Vice President
Alayah Sandoval, Chapter Secretary
Chiara Martinez, Chapter Vice President of Finance & Fundraising

It was a night of celebration for the RHS FCCLA, honoring past successes and looking ahead to another great year of making a difference in families, careers, and in our community.

Respectfully Submitted

Karson Burk, Chapter President

Posted May 16, 2024

National Dance Institute at Raton Intermediate School

The “National Dance Institute is a non-profit arts education organization that brings children together through inclusive dance and music programs. Founded by legendary dancer Jacques d’Amboise in the belief that every child should have access to learning in and through the arts, NDI impacts the lives of thousands of children worldwide.”

This imaginative, energetic, beneficial program is brought to the Raton Intermediate School each year since 2010 through the generous funding of the Sloat Prince Foundation in collaboration with the Raton Arts & Humanities Council, Inc.

The National Dance Institute of New Mexico provides a week-long program in the Raton Intermediate School  in which every student participates. The program involves physical activity with music and is held during the school day engaging teachers and students. Every class is taught by three professional teaching artists: Two Teacher/Choreographers and a Musician/Accompanist.

The NDI rehearsals culminated in a Friday public performance for family members, staff, and teachers.

Photos by Frank Mahannah

Posted May 10, 2024

Global Warming Express (GWE) Outline Recycling Plan

Fourth-grade students from the Global Warming Express (GWE) after-school program spoke before the Raton Rotary recently to outline their plastic recycling plan for Raton Intermediate School.

In their May 7 presentation to Rotary members at K-Bob’s in Raton, the four students said they chose recycling for their big GWE goal. The students, who had met with the school principal earlier about the idea, decided on a plan to recycle plastics 1 and 2 starting next school year. They told Rotary members they plan to use four recycling bins and two sorting bins, estimated to cost a total of about two hundred dollars.

GWE is a “climate change education and advocacy program created by and for” kids aged 8-12, and has been adopted by the Rio Grande Chapter of the Sierra Club. Raton residents Patricia Walsh and Ron Schuster served as GWE mentors for the students this year, with the assistance of fourth-grade teacher Shelby Padilla and after-school/enrichment coordinator Geneva Sandoval.

Posted May 10, 2024

RHS Students Earned Santa Fe Community College and Mesalands Community College Certificates

Raton High School is proud to announce the following students have earned college certificates from Santa Fe Community College and Mesalands Community College.  These students have put in a tremendous amount of work in college to earn these certificates as well as completing their high school graduation requirements.  Many students have taken college classes over the past 4 years.  22 students in the Class of 2024 have earned 653 credits at zero cost to students during their high school career.  We are so proud of them and their accomplishments.

Raton High School currently offers college pathways in Phlebotomy, Community Health Worker, Nutrition, Business Administration, Liberal Arts, Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor, Accounting Specialist, Application Development/Programming, Early Childhood Development, Criminal Investigation, Film Technician Training and Wind Energy Technician/Renewable Energy. 

These students have earned the following certificates:

• Kaylie Doyon:  Phlebotomy (SFCC) and Community Health Worker (SFCC)
• Isaac Garcia:  Wind Energy Technician/Renewable Energy (MCC)
• Joseph Arguello:  Wind Energy Technician/Renewable Energy (MCC)
• Christian Kamp:  Liberal Arts (SFCC)
• Giana Marez: Liberal Arts (SFCC)
• Reyna Marquez:  Liberal Arts (SFCC), Phlebotomy (SFCC) and Community Health Worker (SFCC)
• Deznie Montoya:  Criminal Investigation (SFCC)
• Shakayla Nash:  Phlebotomy (SFCC) and Community Health Worker (SFCC)
• Samantha Phillips:  Liberal Arts (SFCC)
• Daechelle Silva:  Phlebotomy (SFCC) and Community Health Worker (SFCC)
• Carson Trujillo:  Wind Energy Technician/Renewable Energy (MCC)
• Tyleigh Valdez:  Liberal Arts (SFCC) and Business Administration (SFCC)
• Nefertiti Yoon:  Phlebotomy (SFCC) and Community Health Worker (SFCC)
• Congratulations to these students and the Class of 2024

Posted May 10, 2024

Raton High School is proud to announce our 2024 Renewable Energy Graduates from Mesalands Community College. 

Clayton Kelley, son of James and Victoria Kelley

Joseph Arguello, son of Patricia Mares and Jody Arguello

The Wind Energy Technology/Renewable Energy Certificate program is designed to give students a selection of courses to enhance professional opportunities in the growing field of wind energy.  This certificate provides instruction in the growing field of wind energy and focuses on turbine maintenance, electrical theory, monitoring and communication technology, safety, motors, generators, and mechanical systems.  This program helps students obtain real-world training experiences.  Students conduct troubleshooting and preventative maintenance on the College’s 1.5-megawatt wind turbine, under the direction of instructors with field experience as wind technicians.

Congratulations students!

Posted April 29, 2024

Raton High School Prom King and Queen

2024 Raton High School Prom Queen Arianna Swanson and King Izarius Lucero.

Photo by Frank Mahannah.

Posted April 29, 2024

Raton Intermediate School Athletic Award Ceremony

The Raton Intermediate athletes were honored with an award ceremony on April 28, 2024 held at the Raton High School Gymnasium.

Photo by Frank Mahannah.

Posted April 29, 2024

Raton Softball in Full Swing

Raton Tiger Softball had a strong week last week. They were able to pick up 4 wins all by the run rule. On Tuesday our Tigers were able to get a home win over the Santa Fe Indians 25-13 and sweep the 3 game series. On Wednesday Raton traveled back to the Capital Jaguars in Santa Fe to finish a previously postponed game due to darkness. The game action picked back up in the 3rd with Raton being behind 6-1. Raton was able to take the lead and get the win 17-7 sweeping the 2 game series. On Friday Raton went back to Santa Fe this time to face the St. Michael’s Horsemen for a double header. Raton was able to get both wins by the scores of 20-8 and 23-5 also getting the 3 game series sweep.

Early on in the season Raton held a #9 ranking in the Coaches Polls. A few weeks ago the earned a #4 ranking which dropped to a #5 ranking after losing to West Las Vegas and Robertson. We’ll see where the coaches polls and MaxPrepe will have them ranked this week.

This week will be another huge test for Tiger Softball who will be back on the road on Tuesday to take on the #1 ranked West Las Vegas Dons followed by double header home games against the #4 Robertson Cardinals on Thursday. Time to due work and get some dubs. Go Tigers!!!

Photos and information courtesy of Raton Tiger Softball.

Posted March 24, 2024

Raton High School Softball Team takes Win over Portales

Courtesy of Stevie Medina

Raton Tiger Softball gets the win 9-7 over the Portales Rams to take 3rd place at the 2024 Lindsey Callaway Softball Tournament in Dexter on Saturday. Haydyn Middlebrook and Brooklyn Marquez both received All-Tourney.

Haydyn Middlebrook once again got the win in the circle pitching the entire game and keeping the walks down to a minimum. On the defensive side of the ball the Tigers had several outstanding plays. Kaylie Doyan and Sam Phillips turned a double play. Ava Machuca had a relay from right field to Jennifer Mattorano to Giana Mares to throw out a runner at 3rd. Elaina Gigante caught a fly ball in center and gunned down the runner at homeplate. Jennifer Mattorano and Brooklyn Marquez made the tough plays look routine and Addison Medina was a beast behind the plate limiting past balls and stolen bases. Our Batters had hot bats finding the gaps in the defense which included Giana Mares going oppo for her 3rd homerun of the tournament and 7th dinger of the season which I think is leading all batters in all classes in New Mexico. It was a great Team tournament by Tiger Softball seeing all players making major contributions to their 3rd place tournament finish. Up next for the Tigers are the Capital Jaugars. Go Tigers!!!

Posted March 24, 2024

Social Emotional Learning  Awards Ceremony Held at Raton High School

Social Emotional Learning (SEL) is becoming more and more recognized as a vital part of our youth’s ability to grow as an individual and to become an active participant in his or her education. Social Emotional Learning is described as “the process of developing the self-awareness, self-control, and interpersonal skills that are vital for school, work, and life success.”

Raton High School recently held an award ceremony with the student body to provide a time to thank our teachers and to give students information on choices that they can make to travel through their time in school and ultimately in life with less strife and a path to success.

The ceremony held on Friday, March 8, 2024, in the RHS gymnasium opened with introductions followed by a motivational speech by Dean of Students Brock Walton and a talk by “the Grynch” about social emotional support. And, just for fun, a dance-off between the mascots and the Grynch.

Entertainment was provided by DJ Beverly and Taityn Vladez and drawings were held to present a myriad of donations from the community to students with the winning tickets.

Guest speaker Christine Neurauter explained how she overcame serious injuries from an accident and how she still struggles with them. Guest speaker Greg Guiterrez shared his difficult childhood and the challenges he had to face because of the choices he made and the resulting suffering from those choices. Guest speaker Josh Martinez spoke about leadership and karate training.

Other guest speakers scheduled for the event were Girls Circle Facilitator Gayla Martinez, Dana White with Blue Sky Ranch, and Andie Ortega with Restorative Services. A big “Thank you!” to City of Raton Continuum Coordinator Danielle Vanderpool for organizing this event.

2024 Raton High School NM Boys State Representatives

Boys State is made up of young men from all across the state who have just completed their Junior year of
high school, going into their Senior year. Delegates will learn how state and local government and
elections work by campaigning for one of the many offices in the state, county, or municipal level and
then actually doing the work that their real-world counterparts would do. They work on bills in their
legislature and work on economic development projects in their city; all the while competing against other
delegates and cities. This practical experience will allow delegates to leave Boys’ State with a real-world
understanding of democracy, from campaigning for office to being an overall more informed and well-rounded citizen primed to be the leaders of tomorrow.

Raton High School administration, teachers, and staff are proud to announce our 2024 New Mexico Boys
State Representatives are:
Deacon Alderette, son of Gilbert and Valerie Alderette
Clayton Kelley, son of James and Victoria Kelley
Christian Padilla, son of Chris and Catherine Padilla
Russell Simmons, son of Jared and Ailene Simmons
David Valdez, son of David Valdez and Coreen Childers
Jared Vasquez, son of Jared Vasquez

RHS Honor Roll – 3rd Quarter

Congratulations to these hard-working students! Keep up the good work!

VFW Local #1790 Announces
Voice of Democracy Scholarship Award

Each year, the Veterans of Foreign Wars organization holds an audio-essay contest for high school students that provides them  with the opportunity to express themselves through an audio essay about a patriotic, democratic theme.

The 2022-2023 contest titled, “Voice of Democracy,” was entered by more than 25,000 high school students across the country, including at our local VFW #1793 by Raton High School student Tierra Garrett, daughter of Traci Garrett. Tierra was awarded $450.00 for her winning entry, $200 from our local VFW and $250 from the district level. She received her award at the VFW #1793 post, 106 Park Avenue, Raton. Presenting the award to Tierra are: VFW District 5 Commander Danny Cruz left, Brian Ravak Sr. State Vice Commander, and District 5 Sr. Vice Commander Gary Ludi.

The 2023-2024 audio-essay contest is titled ““What Are the Greatest Attributes of Our Democracy?” All students, grades nine through twelve, are encouraged to enter at the local level. Winners of the local, district, and state contests can then go on to the national level which offers up to $35,000 scholarship paid directly to the recipient’s American university, college or vocational/technical school. The application for this year’s contest can be downloaded from https://www.vfw.org/community/youth-and-education/youth-scholarships. Another scholarship application that is available to download from the site is the Patriot Pen Award which is open to students in grades six through eight.

Read Tierra’s essay below.

Voice of Democracy

By Tierra Garrett

            The United States of America was founded over 200 years ago.  Our government is based on a representative democracy which means our government is elected by the people for the people.  Elected officials represent the ideas and concerns of our country and its citizens. Three words  most often used to describe democracy are “We the People.”

            I feel that most of our young adults today ignore the term democracy.  Although it is taught in schools, many students tend to ignore the significance.  Many will state that time changes everything and things are not as they were 200 years ago, but they do not realize that they are entitled to their opinion as a right given to them by our constitution. With all the modern technology, devices, social media and other means of access available to them, many young adults tend to overlook the importance of our constitution and how it has kept us a great country. 

            Yes, 200 years was a long time ago but for a nation to succeed with the same words and meanings that has kept all our citizens treated fairly and respected for their own opinions is a great accomplishment for the United States. One should never think that their opinions, dreams, and goals are unimportant. We have built a strong country where its citizens are still willing to join our armed forces and defend our Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms. We have fought to keep oppression at bay. We have fought to keep prolonged cruel and unjust treatment or control of authority of power to a minimum. We have the Bill of Rights and other amendments that have taken us through over 200 years without fail. Our constitution is our most important tool today.

            We as a country have secured and maintained our armed forces for just as many years. They have fought to keep us safe. It makes no difference as to which war a veteran has fought in. He or she has fought to protect our rights to live in this great country. Those men and women deserve respect and gratitude for a job that many of us would not or could not do. My prayer is that the youth of our great country will be prepared to carry on the United States of America’s great legacy. Also that we use our history that has taught us to show our respect, admiration and dedication to all who have fought for us before. 

THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IS THE GREATEST COUNTRY IN THE WORLD! GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Raton High School holds first Power Lifting Meet

Raton High School will hold its first Power Lifting meet Monday, February 26, 2024. Athletes weigh in is a 8:00 AM. Meet starts at 9:00 AM. Spectators are asked to enter at the lower level of the gymnasium. Concessions will be open.

Raton Public Schools Summer Lunch Calendar

Raton High School 2024 Tiger Fest

Tiger Fest is the celebration of the Raton High School basketball season that culminates with the crowning of the King and Queen and Prince and Princess during the Pep Assembly on Friday afternoon at 1:00 PM in the Raton High School gymnasium.

The Boys and Girls Varsity Games are held on Saturday at the Raton High School gymnasium.

Throughout the week the students and teachers conduct fun activities, including the dress up days.

The Junior Varsity basketball game will be Friday, January 26, 2024 and the Senior Varsity basketball game will be held on Saturday, January 27, 2024 at the Raton High School Gymnasium

2024 Tiger Fest King-Queen CandidatesQueen candidates: Daechelle Silva, Krystal Gamboa-Duran, Kaylie Doyon, Serenity Longwill, Abigal Jones
King candidates: Issac Garcia, Carson Trujillo, John Withers, Robert Wick, William Hyer

Princess candidates: Gabriella Ortega, Mya Burgos, Keauna Martinez, Maya Vasquez, Avery LuskPrince candidates: Koby Gomez, Nicolas Granado, Johnny Redlick, Roby Mack, not pictured: Cael Walton.  Photo courtesy of Holly Mayfield

4th Annual Career Day Provides Career Opportunities Options

The fourth annual RHS Career Day held throughout many of the classrooms at the high school campus provided a wide variety of career ideas for the students. According to Lynette Simpson, the organizer and creator of this event, she likes to mix it up with career presenters to really keep the students engaged and to help them realize that there are many careers they an pursue right here in Raton and the surrounding area.

Some of those careers that were presented to the students throughout the day were:

• School Business Officials
• Film and TV
• National Park Service
• Veterinarian
• NMSP Commercial Vehicle Enforcement
• Automotive Diesel Technician
• Cosmetology
• Professional Land Surveyor
• National Wildlife Refuge
• Physical Therapy
• Journeyman Lineman
• Car Sales and Management
• Welding
• Chef
• Sonographer/Ultrasound Technician
• Gunsmithing
• Banking
• Fire/EMS
• Tatto Artist
• New Mexico State Police

Rural Opportunities for College Access New Mexico

Article and Photos By Lynette Simpson

On November 8, 2023 36 10^th and 11^th grade students from Raton High School were hosted by Cimarron High School to attend the Rural Opportunities for College Access New Mexico (ROCANM) Workshops.  Students learned about the college application process and what makes a good college application, FAFSA information, what to look for when they are choosing what college they would like to attend, and other college information. ROCANM is a college access program for rural first-generation college-going students interested in exploring college options outside the state of New Mexico.  Students were able to visit with recruiters from the University of Portland, Southwestern University, Vanderbilt University, University of Denver, University of Chicago, and St. Edwards in Austin.  

October 10, 2023

Raton Drone Pilot Project

Raton High School would like to extend our congratulations to the following teacher and students who passed and will receive their FAA Unmanned Aircraft Drone Pilot Certification.  

From L to R:  John Gore, Carson Trujillo, Mrs. Holly Mayfield, and Christian Kamp.

The FAA Unmanned Aircraft Drone Pilot certification is an industry-recognized certification designed to provide students with knowledge and “heads up” curriculum and training which culminated in students taking the nationally recognized FAA Drone Pilot Knowledge and Certification Exam.  This certification allows students to qualify for, and conduct commercial contract-based services as well as establish their own businesses in the field or many other related fields.  Once licensed, as a certified FAA Unmanned Aircraft Drone Pilot there are many local, state, and national opportunities that are integrated with other systems such as Global Positioning System (GPA) and Geographical Information Systems (GIS) to allow an integrated approach to careers in all sixteen career clusters.   This program is sponsored by High Plains Regional Education Cooperative (REC) #3. 

September 5, 2023

2023 Raton High School US Presidential Scholars Program Nominees

The US Presidential Scholars program was established in 1964 and have honored over 8000 outstanding high school seniors.  It was first based on recognition solely on academic excellence, but in 2016 the program started recognizing students who were outstanding in the CTE fields as well.  In addition to Academics and CTE, students are nominated for their Involvement and Service in their school and communities, leadership and character, writing samples, extraordinary achievements, and overcoming an obstacle. There are 4 phases of the program and at each stage the field gets narrower and at the end 3 students (1 Academic boy, 1 Academic girl, and 1 CTE student) from New Mexico will be chosen to go to Washington DC to be presented a Presidential medallion at a White House ceremony.  Raton High School is pleased to announce this year’s nominees as:

(Left to Right)    Academic—Christian Kamp, son of Ted and Tracy Kamp; Academic—Nefertiti Yoon, daughter of Desiree Trujillo; CTE—Carson Trujillo, son of Ronald and Marie Trujillo

Raton High School Senior 2023-2024 Spotlight

• Jerius Anthony Acevedo
• Joseph Arguello
• Mario Luis Alvarez
• Larry Berg
• Steven Anthony Brashear
• Eric Alexander Burgos
• Skyla Rain Clark
• Kaylie Grace Doyon
• Krystal Gamboa-Duran
• Robert Esquivel
• Isaiah Joseph Garcia
• Isaac Joshua Garcia
• Brook Sage Gonzales
• Seth Gonzales
• John Lee Gore
• Frankie Hernandez
• William Devon (WD) Hyer
• Abigail Cheyenne Jones
• Christian Kamp
• Samantha Gail Lawrence
• Serenity Leal Longwill
• Jadin Lunn
• Giana Mikal Marez
• Reyna Lia Marquez
• Daneka Reanna Martinez
• Sierah Jayde Martinez
• Jacob Mattorano
• Deznie Jo Montoya
• Mathew James Munoz
• Shakayla Grace Nash
• Miranda Jordyn Ortiz
• Samantha Phillips
• Jayden Andrew Romero
• Isabella Kaydence Salazar
• Kaleb Rae Salazar
• Daechelle Silva
• Wyatt Lee Strom
• Leila Jo Tarango
• Madelynn Terrones
• Carson Trujillo
• Tyleigh Alexis Valdez
• Hosteen Washburn
• Robert Andrew Wick
• John T. Withers
• Nefertiti Yoon

Skyla Rain Clark, daughter of Randy and Jeanette Ottwell

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be a registered nurse. I want
to help people and be there in times of need.

What is your favorite color?
Red

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? My favorite meal would be anything my mom and day make together and anything momma Amber makes. They always cook the best.

What is your favorite song and why?
Any song by Rod Wave

What are your Hobbies?
I love to do nails, hair and make-up

What do you like best about RHS?
I like the RHS has always given me the opportunity to succeed

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
I have reached my goal of being a senior

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?
Becoming your authentic self is the key to seeing expansion in your life

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?
I hope that I am working doing something I love, surrounded by a family I created in a good home

Do you have any advice for younger students?
Nothing seems serious in the 7 th grade, but soon you will a 12 th grader wishing you could go back, make every moment of it count.

Samantha Gail Lawrence, daughter of Benjamin and Leah Cummings

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be a lawyer

What is your favorite color?
John Deere Green

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?
Chicken Alfredo made by mom

What is your favorite song and why?
Black Panther by Seth’s_WRLD because it’s relatable and it has a strong meaning behind it

What are your Hobbies?
Riding dirt bikes, hanging with friends and drawing

What do you like best about RHS?
I like how much it has changed over the years. It helped me learn more of who I am. I love how much support there is.

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
I am most proud of not giving up no matter how bad or how hard times got.

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?
I learned that some things always happen for a reason and no matter what you have to keep your head held high.

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?
This one is a hard question. We are never guaranteed a tomorrow, but in 10 years I think I would be done with college and pursuing my dream job that I worked hard for.

Do you have any advice for younger students?
I say no matter what happens, no matter how hard times get, don’t give up because there is always someone standing behind you to catch you if you fall. Never Give Up! And remember let every moment be what it is going to be, what’s means to be will come your way, what’s not meant to be will fall away!

Leila Jo Tarango, daughter of Camilo Tarango and Rosemarie Valdez

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?
I want to be a registered nurse

What is your favorite color?
Red

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?
Green chile fries made by my dad

What is your favorite song and why?
I listen to a lot of music, I don’t really have 1 favorite

What are your Hobbies?
Watching tiktok and hanging out with my boyfriend

What do you like best about RHS?
I like the teachers

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?
Graduating

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?
I learned woodworking and it was easier than I thought it would be

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?
Being a nurse and living with my family

Wyatt Lee Strom, son of Eric and Coreen Strom

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to be a video gamer

What is your favorite color?  Light Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Lasagna made by mom

What is your favorite song and why?  Juice Wrld by Lucid Dreams.  It reminds me of my childhood

What are your Hobbies?  Playing video games, watching TV, playing sports and working out

What do you like best about RHS?  Going to lunch and my favorite class is Welding

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? Graduating

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Esports

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Working

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Work hard, do your best, make money and buy cool stuff

Madelynn Marie Terrones, daughter of Yvonne Terrones

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to be a cosmetologist

What is your favorite color?  Pink

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Anything my mom or grandma make

What is your favorite song and why?  My favorite song is “Love Yourz” by J.cole because it’s meaningful to me

What are your Hobbies?  Shopping and listening to music

What do you like best about RHS?  I like that the staff provide help when needed

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? Graduating and not giving up along the way

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  The skills in woodshop and how it can be used in many ways

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  I picture myself being licensed in cosmetology, having my own house, and creating a family of my own.

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Look forward to your future but enjoy the present

Nefertiti Alexus Yoon, daughter of Desiree Trujillo

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to be a pediatric nurse

What is your favorite color?  Pink

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My favorite meal is an 8oz. steak with a loaded baked potato from TEXAS Roadhouse

What is your favorite song and why?  My favorite song is Baby by Justin Bieber

What are your Hobbies?  Shopping and hanging out with family and friends

What do you like best about RHS?  What I like about Raton High School is getting to see my friends everyday

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? I will become a phlebotomist.

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I did not expect to learn how to draw blood

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  I hope to be working my dream job and have traveled around the world

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. –Proverbs 3:5

John T. Withers, son of Marilyn Withers

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to be a military police officer

What is your favorite color?  Pink

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Sweet and Sour Chicken with Fried Rice by my mom

What is your favorite song and why?  Seven Nation Army by The White Stripes.  It pumps me up to get motivated to do something like working out or playing an Esports Game

What are your Hobbies?  Video games, drawing, and hanging out with family and friends

What do you like best about RHS?  The opportunities and what the sports program does to help you become a better athlete

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? Graduating

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Spanish

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Working as a police office and having a family

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Never give up and have a positive attitude and this will help you accomplish anything you want to do.

Hosteen Biizhii Lee Washburn, son of Shane Ashley and Denise Romero

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to be a fighter, a boxer

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Spaghetti by my mom

What is your favorite song and why?  Stay beside me by Richie Valens because it’s very calming and a relatable song

What are your Hobbies?  Drawing, Lifting, and hanging out with friends

What do you like best about RHS?  Everyone is pretty cool

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? Getting my diploma

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I learned that everything happens for a reason and it will work out in the end, just gotta have that trust.

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  The World’s Middle Weight Boxing Champion!

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Ephesians 4:32 “Instead, be kind to each other, tender hearted, forgiving one another, just as God through Christ has forgiven you.”

Sierah Jayde Martinez, daughter of Vanessa Valdez and Michael Martinez

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to do some form of architecture, dealing mainly with landscape design

What is your favorite color?  Maroon

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Anything made by my dad or grandma

What is your favorite song and why?  My favorite song is Soul Survivor by Akon, because it reminds me of my childhood

What are your Hobbies?  Drawing or helping my mom

What do you like best about RHS?  The opportunities given

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? Finally Graduating

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Trying is worth it

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  I think I will have a family and be out of Raton

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Push to Succeed!

Jacob Matthew Mattorano, son of Michael and Margaret Ann Mattorano

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A Chiropractor or a Wildlife Biologist

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Homemade spaghetti with Homemade Sausage Sandwiches that my mom, dad, and brother cook

What is your favorite song and why?  Bury me upside down by Brantley Gilbert

What are your Hobbies?  Football, basketball, baseball, hunting, fishing, and working

What do you like best about RHS?  Being in a small school environment

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? My athletic accomplishments like ALL-District

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How fast it will go by

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Either just finishing college or working and wanting to be fishing or hunting

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Don’t take this time for granted

Jadin Gene Lunn, son of Laurie Sisneros

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A Philosophy Professor

What is your favorite color?  Purple

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Katsu Chicken made by Mom

What is your favorite song and why?  OMG by Usher because of the Super Bowl

What are your Hobbies?  I enjoy skateboarding, swimming, and spending money

What do you like best about RHS?  The staff isn’t afraid to try.

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? Played with varsity band.

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How to sew

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  I hope I’m well off, taking care of my kids in this town

Do you have any advice for younger students?  The work isn’t that hard, don’t get lazy—you will regret it. 

Robert Alfonso Esquivel, grandson of Anthony Esquivel

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A diesel mechanic

What is your favorite color?  Black

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Spaghetti by me

What is your favorite song and why?  Baby hold on to me by Eddie Money.  It was my grandma and grandpa’s favorite song and they would always listen to it

What are your Hobbies?  Riding my bike, playing basketball, and taking my dog for a walk

What do you like best about RHS?  My peers

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? My good grades

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I learned that there are thing in the air that pollute it and they are bad for you

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Working

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Do good in school and keep up your grades

Seth John Gonzales, son of Lacey Tiffany and CJ Gonzales

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A Barber

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My mom’s frito pie and my dad’s green chile

What is your favorite song and why?  Polly gang member by Rundown S Paz because it’s relatable

What are your Hobbies?  Making music and spending time with the people I care about

What do you like best about RHS?  I like the teacher’s kindness

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? Getting my diploma

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Trust is limited

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Cutting hair in my barber shop

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Pay more attention in class and worry about you first

Joseph Lincoln Arguello, son of Patricia Mares and Jody Arguello

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A lineman

What is your favorite color?  Purple

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Spaghetti by Dad

What is your favorite song and why?  Jungle by Drake, because it sounds good

What are your Hobbies?  Driving, videogames, and sports

What do you like best about RHS?  The people

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Climbing a wind turbine

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How to maintain a wind turbine

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  A career with a family

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Get your credits right away.  You will be somewhat free your senior year.

Samantha Jay Phillips, daughter of Jason and Tenelle Phillips

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  Speech Therapist or an Elementary Teacher

What is your favorite color?  Pink

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Thanksgiving dinner made by both my parents

What is your favorite song and why?  Cruel Summer by Taylor Swift because it reminds me of the great times I have in the summer with my best friend, Giana.

What are your Hobbies?  Shopping, drinking coffee, and hanging out with friends

What do you like best about RHS?  I like the fun and memorable times I have had with my softball and volleyball team

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school? Graduating with my liberal arts certificate from Santa Fe Community College

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I learned everything happens for a reason and everything will work out in the end

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Living in Arizona, enjoying the son with a pet yorkie

Do you have any advice for younger students?  My advice is to go out and have fun any chance you get because it will be over before you know it.

Steven Anthony Brashear, son of Robert Brashear and Adriana Brashear

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I really don’t know yet

What is your favorite color?  Red

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Anything my mom or grandparents make

What is your favorite song and why?  I really don’t listen to music

What are your Hobbies?  Hunting, fishing, and looking for antlers

What do you like best about RHS?  That they let me stop going

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  I am most proud of accomplishing getting all my high school classes done early.

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How much I don’t like sitting still all day.

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Hopefully sitting on the side of a mountain doing what I enjoy

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Don’t get too worried about all the things that don’t really matter

Christian Scott Kamp, son of Ted and Traci Kamp

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A trapper

What is your favorite color?  Green

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Spaghetti made by Chuck

What is your favorite song and why?  New Today by Micah Tyler

What are your Hobbies?  Basketball, hunting, and going calling

What do you like best about RHS?  The teachers and my friend group

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Being able to get a big chunk of college done through dual credit.

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I learned how to be a better chess player in Mrs. Gandy’s class

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Riding my horse off into the sunset

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord, not for men.  Colossians 3:23

Kaleb Rae Salazar, son of Felicia Carrillo and Nick Salazar

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A Physical Therapist

What is your favorite color?  Red

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Stuffed Sopapillas made by my grandma

What is your favorite song and why?  Any song by Nba Youngboy because he is my favorite artist

What are your Hobbies?  Hanging out with friends, playing videogames and basketball

What do you like best about RHS?  The friendships that I have made

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Never getting held back

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Everyone really isn’t your friend, only a few are real.

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  working

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Be yourself and don’t care what other people think

Deznie Jo Montoya, daughter of Tamara Mendez and Cristoval Montoya

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  An FBI Agent

What is your favorite color?  Light Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Salmon made by my uncle and Calabasitas made by my grandma

What is your favorite song and why?  Backstreet Girl by D4vd because I heard it in concert and liked the way it sounded

What are your Hobbies?  Painting and doing puzzles

What do you like best about RHS?  The opportunities we have

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Soon graduating with my certificate in Criminal Justice and Investigation

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How to walk on stilts

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Having my own family and working for the FBI

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Care about your grades but not to the point where they control your happiness

John Lee Gore, son of Monte and Bobbi Gore

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  An Engineer

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Mom’s Tacos

What is your favorite song and why?  Radioactive by Imagine Dragons because it brings back good memories 

What are your Hobbies?  Playing games and working out

What do you like best about RHS?  Woodshop

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  I’m proud of learning CAD

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I did not expect to learn how to ski

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  To be working as an engineer

Do you have any advice for younger students?  No

Tyleigh Alexis Valdez, daughter of Cory and Christina Coca, & John Paul Valdez and Nicole Marez

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  When I grow up I want to be a cosmetologist and own my own business

What is your favorite color?  Rose Gold/Pink

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My favorite meal is anything my mom or stepdad make

What is your favorite song and why?  My favorite songs are anything from Olivia Rodrigo because they are all relatable

What are your Hobbies?  Tumbling, reading and organizing

What do you like best about RHS?  The cheerleading teams I have been on

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Being a 4 time state champ in cheerleading!

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Thanks to Ms. Carren, I learned a lot about the Filipino culture. 

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? I want to be successful with my own family

Do you have any advice for younger students?  My advice is to be your own person and create your own happiness.

Isabella Kaydence Salazar, daughter of Tammi Rae Olguin

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to be a nail tech

What is your favorite color?  Black

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Anything my family makes

What is your favorite song and why?  “Did it on em” by Niki Minaj because my sister and I like it

What are your Hobbies?  Writing poetry

What do you like best about RHS?  The amount of funny people

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Graduating soon!!

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How to be a better person

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? Living a happy life

Do you have any advice for younger students?  My advice is that high school isn’t everything and it doesn’t define you as an adult.

Reyna Lia Marquez, daughter of Crystal Arguello and Sergio Saenz

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  When I grow up I would like to be a Surgical Tech

What is your favorite color?  Green

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you? My favorite meal is any meal eaten with the Walton Family

What is your favorite song and why?  My favorite song is “Part of your world” by Ariel from the little mermaid because I love to hit those notes.

What are your Hobbies?  My hobbies are to run fast, eat, sleep, and make money

What do you like best about RHS?  What I like best about RHS is creating friendships with forever friends

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  What I am most proud of accomplishing in high school is receiving a D2 offer to run track at New Mexico Highlands University.  Go Cowboys!!

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I didn’t expect to learn was family isn’t always the people you are related to

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? I expect myself to have a good paying job, with a nice house, a cute dog (specifically a wiener dog) and a beautiful garden full of flowers

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Some advice for younger students is to always get good grades and to know that school is very important

Miranda Jordyn Ortiz, daughter of Moises and Amy Ortiz

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  Teacher

What is your favorite color?  Green

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Restaurant Ramen or Tacos Birria

What is your favorite song and why?  Any song by Mitski, Laufey or Taylor Swift

What are your Hobbies?  Drawing, Writing, or Playing Guitar

What do you like best about RHS?  The fact that I get to leave

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Meeting my friends

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  That everything is temporary, take time to enjoy life

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? I just hope that I am happy

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Focus on yourself and your personal development.  The only opinion that matters is your own.

Abigail Cheyenne Jones, daughter of Anthony and Eriki Manfredi and Adam Jones

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  Dog Trainer

What is your favorite color?  Maroon

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Chicken Bacon Alfredo made by my mom

What is your favorite song and why?  Never Grow Up by Taylor Swift because my mom used to sing it for me

What are your Hobbies?  Walking shelter dogs and horse riding

What do you like best about RHS?  All of the nice people

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Not getting held back

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How to weld

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? Hopefully working with shelter dogs to get them good homes

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Don’t worry about your social standing in school, just have fun and keep your grades up!

Krystal Marie Gamboa-Duran, daughter of Claudio Saenz Jr. & Yolanda Gamboa and Gary Duran II

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  An Animator

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My Abuela’s tamales

What is your favorite song and why?  Titi’ Me Pregunto’ by Bad Bunny.  I just like it.

What are your Hobbies?  Drawing and Painting

What do you like best about RHS?  The clubs and programs

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Passing my college class

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  A lot of life lessons

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? Working

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Just do it!

Jerius Anthony Acevedo, son of Kristin Acevedo, Monty and Tina Colangelo

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  Engineer

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My favorite food is tacos made by my mom and grandma

What is your favorite song and why?  G2g ttyl by Black Bear.  I just really like the vibe of the song. 

What are your Hobbies?  Working on my car, computers, video games, playing guitar, and working on little projects.

What do you like best about RHS?  I like that it’s a smaller school, there is more focus on individual students

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  That I made it this far

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Art

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? I think I will be working on some cool projects as an engineer.

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Don’t let anyone hold you back from where you want to be.   Whatever you do, make something of yourself after high school.

Eric Alexander Burgos, son of Stephanie Burgos

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  Physical Therapist

What is your favorite color?  Green

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My favorite meal is Chicken Nuggets on Break and Ronald makes them

What is your favorite song and why?  My favorite song is Jungle by Drake because my glorious king drizzy Drake is in it.

What are your Hobbies?  Going to practice and playing fortnite with the boys

What do you like best about RHS?  I like how everyone knows each other

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Being a homecoming candidate

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  CAD

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? Living the good life

Do you have any advice for younger students?  My advice for the younger students is to stay away from super seniors

Carson Michael Trujillo, son of Ronald and Marie Trujillo

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  AirForce Pilot

What is your favorite color?  Desert Tan

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Ribeye Steaks with Rice and Sautéed Bell Peppers made by me

What is your favorite song and why?  It’s Not Love by Dokken because my dad used to listen to it all the time and I got my music taste from him. 

What are your Hobbies?  Working on trucks, fishing, firefighting, and helping people

What do you like best about RHS?  Being offered amazing opportunities that will help me in life

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  I’m proud of graduating from Mesalands Community College with certificates in Renewable Energy and Basic Renewable Energy Technology

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I did not expect to learn how to fly a drone and get licensed for it as well

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Living in the countryside of Montana, working around the ranch, and using my skills that I learned in high school and the military to be self sufficient

Do you have any advice for younger students?  High school moves by very quickly and if you blink, you’ll miss it.  So take all of the opportunities presented to you seriously.  Take pride in what you do.  Don’t be scared to take that first step.  Talk to your crush, because if you don’t—you’ll regret it for the rest of your life.  These truly are the golden years, so cherish it and make some memories!

Nevaeh Rae Romero, daughter of Amber Lucero and Gilbert Romero

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A Dermotologist

What is your favorite color?  Pink and Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My grandpa’s Spanish Rice

What is your favorite song and why?  Hero by Marriah Carrey because it’s pretty!

What are your Hobbies?  Shopping and making tiktoks

What do you like best about RHS?  I like the teachers because they are so supportive

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Keeping up with all my classes and never falling behind

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I learned that high school flies by and that you should enjoy it

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? I think I will be studying to become a board certified dermatologist

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Focus on school and don’t put anything ahead of your studying

Mathew James Munoz, son of Sheryl Lopez

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  Athletic Trainer

What is your favorite color?  Black

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Spaghetti made by my grandma

What is your favorite song and why?  Champagne Poetry by Drake.  It’s just a good song.

What are your Hobbies?  Football and Track

What do you like best about RHS?  The people

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Having a good GPA

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Friends will help it go by faster

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Helping athletes

Do you have any advice for younger students?  To not give up

Giana Mikal Marez, daughter of Michael and Jamie Marez

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A Physical Therapist

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Quisabirria tacos made by Francisco from La Chanquis

What is your favorite song and why?  ’98 Braves by Morgan Wallen because it reminds me of my dad

What are your Hobbies?  Volleyball and Softball

What do you like best about RHS?  The friends I have made

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Being in the top 5 of my class

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  That I do not have strong ankles

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years? Working my dream job and having my own family

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Work hard and cherish all the memories

Isaac Joshua Garcia, son of Toriann Garcia

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to be a high voltage electrician (lineman)

What is your favorite color?  Grey

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Chicken Alfredo made by my mom

What is your favorite song and why?  Passionfruit by Drake.  It’s a good song.

What are your Hobbies?  Playing baseball and fishing

What do you like best about RHS?  I like how good the teachers are and how nice everyone is

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Graduating college before high school

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How to climb a Turbine Windmill

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  My dream job and having a family

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Find your passion and do what you love

William Devon (WD) Hyer, son of Vivian Meyers

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to be a police officer

What is your favorite color?  Neon Green

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Meat and Potatoes made by my aunt

What is your favorite song and why?  No Flaws by King von.  The song makes me feel like Himothy.

What are your Hobbies?  Playing video games

What do you like best about RHS?  The teachers

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Being a 2 time All-District athete

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  That everyone has a better day with a smile

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Driving with the windows down blasting Miley Cyrus

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Everything that happens in high school isn’t as serious as everyone takes it, taking a second to breath and see everything as another step in your future.

Mario Luis Alvarez, son of Alejandro and Margarita Alvarez

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A lawyer

What is your favorite color?  white

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Green Chile Chicken Enchiladas made by mom

What is your favorite song and why?  Humble and Kind…it is a good song people should listen to and understand.  It reminds me to live that way.

What are your Hobbies?  Football, Basketball, and Madden

What do you like best about RHS?  All the bonds that were made with teachers and students

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Having good grades and working hard in everything I did

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Sports pushed me to be a better person

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Hopefully working my dream job, having my own family, and giving back to my parents

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Never back down, never what….Never Give Up!!!!

Brook Sage Gonzales, daughter of Richard and Tammy Gonzales

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  An Esthetician

What is your favorite color?  Purple

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Chili Pie made by my mom

What is your favorite song and why?  “In the Stars” by Benson Boone…it reminds me of my grandparents

What are your Hobbies?  Drawing

What do you like best about RHS?  How it has changed for the better

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Graduating

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  That it is okay to let people in and help you

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Pursuing my esthetician career

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Do what you love despite what people might think and enjoy the years while they last

Daechelle Raylynn Silva, daughter of Desiree Silva

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  An Occupational Therapist

What is your favorite color?  Black

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Chicken Alfredo made by my mom

What is your favorite song and why?  Something in the orange by Zach Bryan.  It reminds me of my uncle every time I hear it.

What are your Hobbies?  Volleyball, Basketball, Powerlifting, Woodshop, Hanging with my family

What do you like best about RHS?  Having a good bond with teachers and students

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  I will become a certified phlebotomist and graduate college before I graduate high school

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Being able to build a dresser in woodshop

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Working my dream job and having a family of my own

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Live a life that you will remember

Robert Andrew Wick, son of Bob and Liz Wick

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  Paleontologist

What is your favorite color?  Orange

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Chicken Tikka Masala made by mom and the chefs at any Indian restaurant make

What is your favorite song and why?  I would have to say The Chain by Fleetwood Mac because all of the instruments come together into a perfect blend

What are your Hobbies?  Hiking, skiing, and video games

What do you like best about RHS?  The personal mentorships of the teachers and staff

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Maintaining a 4.0 GPA

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How to play instruments and all of my woodshop experience.

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Digging up dinosaur fossils and studying them in a lab

Do you have any advice for younger students?  It might be difficult, it might not be fun, but if you do it right, it will be worth it.

Jayden Andrew Romero, son of Jennifer Esquivel, Nash and Deborah Esquivel

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A Gunsmith

What is your favorite color?  Beige

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Spaghetti made by grandma

What is your favorite song and why?  Day n Nite by Kid Cudi.  It helps me realize I’m okay even when I’m lonely

What are your Hobbies?  Painting, music, and gaming

What do you like best about RHS?  The amount of change that’s happened

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Just graduating

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I learned a lot about people

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Rich guy things

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Stay on track, no reason to be in school for extra years

Shakayla Grace Nash, daughter of Jennie Gertler

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A registered nurse

What is your favorite color?  Pink

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My favorite dessert is Strawberry Shortcake ad my mom and grandma make it

What is your favorite song and why?  Pink and White by Frank Ocean because I just like the vibes

What are your Hobbies?  Drawing and hanging with friends

What do you like best about RHS? The students and how everyone gets along

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  I am proud that I will be a certified phlebotomist

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  You will make friends with people you’d never expect to

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Working at a hospital or clinic

Do you have any advice for younger students? Don’t let these years pass you by…

Daneka Reanna Martinez, daughter of Cynthia Trujillo

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  I want to be an EMT

What is your favorite color?  Purple

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Sopa Burgers cooked by Grandpo

What is your favorite song and why?  Until I found you– because it’s a heart warming song

What are your Hobbies?  Painting

What do you like best about RHS?  The School Spirit

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  How far I’ve come in the past years

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  Nothing lasts forever

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Buying a house, have a family, and my dream career

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Stay on track with your school work

Serenity Leal Longwill, daughter of Maggie Longwill and Dusty Longwill

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  An elementary teacher

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My favorite meal is Honey Siracha Chicken made by mom

What is your favorite song and why?  Somebody to Love by Queen and Careless Whisper by George Michael.  I’m a sucker for older songs.

What are your Hobbies?  Reading, volleyball, puzzles, and hanging out with family

What do you like best about RHS?  The teachers

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Keeping at least a 3.5 GPA

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How to work with children

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Teaching kids and making a difference

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Don’t let other people tell you what you can and can’t do

Isaiah Joseph Garcia, son of Toni Garcia

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A physical therapist or a diesel mechanic

What is your favorite color?  Purple

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  Pumpkin Pie and baking it with my grandma

What is your favorite song and why?  Passionfruit by Drake, because it has a good vibe.

What are your Hobbies?  Football

What do you like best about RHS?  How everyone is accepting

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Making All-State and All-District for Football

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  How being active in school helps you in the community

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Helping young athletes recover from injuries

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Be confident in who you are!

Frankie Hernandez, son of Rebecca Martinez

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  A mechanic or an architect

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My favorite meal is spaghetti made by my mom

What is your favorite song and why?  Heart Mind by Kodiak Black Featuring Plies.  I just like the lyrics.

What are your Hobbies?  Fishing and Football

What do you like best about RHS?  The students and the teachers

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Becoming a SENIOR!

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I learned how to cook

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  My dream job

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Your most important year is your freshman year

Larry Berg, son of Larry and Suzette Berg

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  Construction Worker

What is your favorite color?  Blue

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My favorite meal is mashed potatoes with meat gravy.  My mom makes it.

What is your favorite song and why?  God’s plan by Drake.  I listen to it a lot and it really inspires me to do more.

What are your Hobbies?  Work and playing video games

What do you like best about RHS?  The teachers and the woodshop

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  Graduating and meeting new people

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  I learned how to do woodworking and do more things with machines

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  Working

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Keep doing what you are doing and do not let anyone tell you otherwise.

Kaylie Grace Doyon, daughter of Steve and Laurie Doyon.

What do you think you want to be when you grow up?  MRI Technician

What is your favorite color?  Orange

What is your favorite meal and who cooks it for you?  My favorite meal is steak, loaded mashed potatoes, and bread rolls. My mom!

What is your favorite song and why?  Missed call by Treaty Oak Revival, I just like the vibe of it.

What are your Hobbies?  Anything outside is my favorite

What do you like best about RHS?  The class I am in is a great group to be with

What are you most proud of accomplishing in high school?  I will graduate with multiple college certificates from college as well as graduating high school.

What did you learn in high school that you didn’t expect to learn?  That more effort can get you a lot of good things.

What do you think you will be doing in 10 years?  I hope to be working my dream job and buying a house.

Do you have any advice for younger students?  Don’t waste time in school doing dumb things like fighting, but waster time with friends and make the most with the people you have around.

September 1, 2023

 Tiger Den Wellness CenterPosted by Kristie Medina -Friday, Sep 1 at 8:13 AM in Raton Public Schools

August 31, 2023

Junior Rotarians

Congratulations to the new class of Jr. Rotarians for the 2023-2024 school year. 

 It is with great pleasure that Raton High School announces the selections made for the 23-24 Jr. Rotarians. These students were selected based on their high cumulative academic grade point averages.  They will meet monthly with the Raton Rotary Club and report on news from RHS. 

Pictures from L to R starting at the top:

Samantha Phillips, Christian Kamp, Tyleigh Valdez, Jacob Mattorano, Giana Marez, Steven Brashear, Reyna Marquez, Robert Wick, Kaylie Doyon, Eric Burgos, Nefertiti Yoon, Isaac Garcia, Deznie Montoya, WD Hyer, Daechelle Silva, Isaiah Garcia, Miranda Ortiz, and Carson Trujillo.

Congratulations students!!

August 14, 2023

Raton Public Schools Welcomes New Pre-K Students

Article and Photos by Leonore Barfield

Raton, NM – The Raton Public Schools district is gearing up for the new school year, which will start on August 14 , 2023. One of the highlights of the upcoming year is the expansion of the pre-K program at Longfellow Elementary School, which will offer more opportunities for four-year-old children to learn and grow.

The pre-K program at Longfellow Elementary School is funded by the New Mexico PreK initiative, which aims to provide high-quality early childhood education to children across the state. The program is free for eligible families and follows the same calendar as the rest of the district. The pre-K classes are taught by certified teachers and paraprofessionals, who use research-based curriculum and assessments to support the development of the whole child.

The pre-K program at Longfellow Elementary School has been running since 2018, and has seen positive outcomes for both students and families. According to the school’s principal, Ms.Olga Neurauter, the pre-K program helps prepare children for kindergarten and beyond by fostering their academic, social, emotional, and physical skills. “Our pre-K students are exposed to a rich and engaging learning environment that nurtures their curiosity and creativity. They also learn how to interact with their peers and adults in a respectful and cooperative way. We have seen significant growth in their language, literacy, math, science, and art abilities, as well as their self-confidence and independence,” Mrs Neurauter.

The pre-K program also benefits the families of the students by providing them with resources and support. The program offers parent-teacher conferences, home visits, family events, and workshops on topics such as child development, health and wellness, and parenting skills. The program also connects families with community agencies and services that can assist them with their needs.

The pre-K program at Longfellow Elementary School has been in high demand since its inception, and has a waiting list every year. However, this year, the program has received additional funding from the state to expand its capacity and serve more children. The program will now have four classrooms instead of three, and will be able to enroll up to 80 students instead of 60. The program is still accepting applications for the 2023-2024 school year, and encourages interested families to contact the school as soon as possible. To be eligible for the program, children must turn four by August 31, 2023.

Ms. Neureater said that she is looking forward to welcoming all the new pre-K students and their families to Longfellow Elementary School. “We are excited to have more children join our pre-K program and become part of our school community. We believe that every child deserves a strong start in life, and we are committed to providing them with the best possible education,” she said.

A few changes this year is all breakfast and lunches are free. No outside fast food items are allowed on campus.

For more information about the pre-K program at Longfellow Elementary School or to apply for enrollment, call (575) 445-9261 or visit www.ratonschools.com.

School Bond Issue

The Raton School Board voted at the last School Board meeting on July 24, 2023 to proceed with a school bond issue to build a new pre-k through 12 school. The bond issue will be put to a vote at the next general election on November 7, 2023. The vote was the result of the process of updating the Raton Schools Master Plan. Administrators, teachers, and others involved in the discussions concluded that the Raton High School, Raton Intermediate School, and Longfellow Elementary School, no longer served the needs of the students and teachers, and could not be repaired or renovated adequately. The school district will have the opportunity to apply for a waiver from the New Mexico Public Education Department that would cover 90% of the cost, which is estimated to be nearly $80 Million.

The decision to move forward with the school bond issue came after several months of meetings to discuss the current state of the buildings and how to address the needs of the students and teachers while keeping in the mind the expectations of the community.

During the bi-weekly meetings, that were facilitated with the help of ThinkSmart Planning, Inc. and Capital AE, the buildings were thoroughly inspected, the schools’ curriculums were explored, the community needs were identified, and the possible location of a new school was discussed.

The community will be provided with additional information about the school bond proposal in the coming months.

August 3, 2023

The following is a letter to students and families from Raton High School Principal Joleene Star