Silver Consolidated Schools has officially completed the transfer of ownership of the former Jose Barrios Elementary School campus to Aldo Leopold Charter School, marking a historic milestone for both institutions and the state. The transaction represents two New Mexico firsts: Aldo Leopold Charter School is the first charter school in the state to successfully complete the Charter School Revolving Loan Fund process and secure financing to purchase a permanent campus, while Silver Consolidated Schools is believed to be the first public school district in New Mexico to sell a public school campus to a charter school.
Congratulations to Western New Mexico University (WNMU) nursing instructor Joline Lowe, who received statewide recognition from the New Mexico Nursing Education Consortium for her innovative, hands-on teaching methods that strengthen critical thinking skills in future nurses. During her first year at WNMU, Joline introduced interactive simulations and game-based learning activities that help reduce student anxiety while preparing them for real-world clinical situations. The award includes a $1,000 professional development endowment, which she plans to use to bring new educational strategies back to WNMU.
Gila Regional Medical Center has purchased two former Silver Health CARE properties in Silver City to expand healthcare services and support future growth. The former family clinic on U.S. 180 will be renovated to house a new primary care clinic, an urgent care clinic with extended hours, and the beginnings of a family medicine residency program in partnership with the University of New Mexico. The Silver Health CARE clinic on East 32nd Street will continue operating under its current providers, with no changes to patient services.
In other news:
Columbus native and Deming High School graduate Seaman Adrian Molina is representing southern New Mexico aboard the USS Carl M. Levin during the 2026 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) exercise, the world’s largest international maritime warfare training event. Serving as a quartermaster, Mr. Molina is responsible for ship navigation while participating in the multinational exercise, which includes 31 nations, more than 25,000 military personnel, approximately 40 surface ships, five submarines, and 140 aircraft to strengthen international maritime cooperation and readiness.
