Dear graduates,
Taos Academy
Every graduating class faces challenges — this year’s graduating seniors met theirs with creativity, grit and heart. From forging identities in small towns to balancing academics, jobs, sports and service, these seniors have shown what it means to grow through change. As part of our annual tradition, the Taos News invited students from regional high schools to share their stories. Their submissions give us a portrait of a generation stepping forward with purpose and resilience. Their voi…
I am Jacqueline Limas, a proud member of the Taos High School Class of 2025, and I am passionate about helping others. Throughout my time in high school, I have balanced a challenging academic load, …
I’m Alyssa Atencio, a 2025 graduate of Peñasco High School, and I believe in leading with heart. Whether it’s in the classroom, on the court or with my “little” in Big Brothers Big Sisters, …
I’m the kind of person who asked for a water pick for her 10th birthday. While other kids were dreaming of dolls or video games, I was obsessed with teeth. Ever since I was little, I looked forward …
The biggest day of my life is rapidly approaching, and I couldn’t be more excited. I’ve always been the type to dream big, dive deep into what I love and reflect on how I got here. As graduation …
My name is Estevan Benito Rafael Martinez, and I’m proud to be a senior at Vista Grande High School. It’s been quite a journey — one filled with books, ballots and a deep love for culture. …
If there’s one thing people know about me, it’s that I’m always on the move. Whether I’m working on a car engine, tutoring kids or running across a soccer field, I like staying busy and …
Each year, the Taos Milagro Rotary Club honors the hard work and aspirations of local students through its robust scholarship and literacy programs. In addition to its decade-long commitment to …
"You Can Do It, Mija!" That’s the core message behind UNM-Taos’ Mija mentorship club, a program helping young women and girls in Northern New Mexico develop confidence, leadership skills, and …
In May, a taqueria owner named Geno Esparza was shot execution-style in his restaurant. The owner of a nearby competing restaurant, Alec Benavidez, was charged with first-degree murder and conspiracy …
From buzzer-beaters and banner wins to scholarship signings and amazing upsets, Northern New Mexico athletes made headlines this past year. These are a few moments that defined a standout season for …
Tucked inside a trailer at the Peñasco Independent School District is the Peñasco Museum of Art, History and Science. Walk inside, and one will almost immediately notice the tall skeleton with …
As the 2024 – 25 school year winds down, one of Taos’ premier distance runners, junior Judah Daffron, reflected on his goals for the remainder of the season during the Tigers Invite in late …
Taos BreAnna Taylor The two-sport athlete who ran track for head coach Benny Mitchell made history when she signed her letter of intent to play hockey for the University of New Mexico’s first …










