Dear Quemado School District Families & Communities,

It is with great excitement that I introduce myself as your Quemado ISD Principal. I am eager to work alongside the community to provide a safe and caring learning environment for each child. Over twenty years ago, I started my journey as an advocate for children. My experiences as an elementary/middle school teacher and building leader, aided in the development of my strong moral principles. I am committed to serving the Quemado communities, focusing on supportive relationships, safety and high student achievement.

My passion is empowering others to succeed and lead. My advocacy towards student-led environments, where students have ownership of their learning, has been unwavering. In addition to the importance of empowerment, I believe creating a foundation that enables high levels of learning is accomplished when adults are aware and responsive to the social-emotional needs of the students. Once children feel safe and loved, the possibilities are endless!

On a personal level, my childhood was spent growing up working in our family owned grocery store, playing sports and working with my dad on the family ranch. I thoroughly enjoyed the learning experiences, athletic opportunities and community of Roy, New Mexico, where I graduated high school in 1994. After high school, I attended the University of New Mexico, where I received my master’s degree in Educational Research and Development. Then, I accepted my first job with the Cimarron Public Schools in northeastern New Mexico. It’s been a privilege to teach there for over 20 years. In 2018, I was selected as a NM Golden Apple recipient, which spurred me to pursue my administration license and today I am excited to be joining you as a Quemado Eagle.

Furthermore, I am a devoted wife and mother. My husband, Art, and I will celebrate our 17th wedding anniversary in December. We have four children, ages 13, 10 and twin boys that are 8, who keep us busy with after school activities and outdoor adventures. If we’re not at sporting events, you’ll find us hiking nearby trails, fishing or hunting. In my spare time I love to read, cook and relax with my family.

I am overjoyed to be joining the Quemado Public School District. The community, school board, staff and administration have shared with me how proud they are, and I’m impressed by the community’s and school district’s dedication to the students. I feel I have found a new “home” and can’t wait for the continued progress we’ll make together over the years.I’m looking forward to meeting each of you during the upcoming school year. If you have any questions, please feel free to stop in, call or email me as the year progresses.

Dedicated to you,

Cindy Orthman Quemado ISD Principal corthman@quemadoschools.org 575-773-4700 ext.