Jerry's Story (Spirits of Cibola County)

To effectively lead one must learn to follow. The principal in charge of our largest private school is one of the most serene respectful people I have ever met. His singular attention to the person he is talking to causes immediate respect for the man. Jerry makes one feel that what they have to say is of utmost importance.

His well-rounded background and personal life experiences make him an ideal principal. He gave me the following quote, "A teacher is like a plumber, they are as good as the tools they have."

He believes in giving his teachers the tools they need and letting them teach. He encourages them to share their life experiences with their students. On a regular basis he observes classes and gives teachers positive feedback for improvement. His expectation for them is that they are professional and accountable and have a desire to be there.

Jerry also believes the reason the school is a success is because the board of education is not elected. It is made up of community-minded dedicated volunteers who are service-oriented.

Before retiring from the public school system in 1997 as interim/associate superintendent for Grants/Cibola County Schools, he filled a wide variety of positions. He was a teacher, bilingual education director, kindergarten director, assistant principal and a principal. Jerry also worked for 12 years in the central office as Director of Personnel and Instruction. Some of his many duties included hiring teachers, evaluating principals and overseeing the high school courses.

His Navy experiences taught him to follow directions and respect others. He said it also taught him to appreciate life. He was stationed in Hong Kong where the village people willingly worked in the galley cleaning the slop trays.

Jerry said, "They were so hungry they took it home." It made an impression, which stayed with him throughout his life. He left the Navy as a second class petty officer

One of his heroes is an older brother who died one month before he was to receive his law degree. Jerry is the youngest of a large family. Seven siblings died very young. Five boys and two girls survived. He received strong family values from his parents who were married for 55 years. His father was a self taught brilliant translator who loved to share his experiences. His mother was a giving outgoing people person who loved helping others.

Jerry said his life revolves around his wife of over forty years and his two daughters who are both teachers. St.Teresa Catholic School is fortunate to have such a person willing to lead them on their journey of education.

(Jerry retired for good about three years ago, but he still generates hugs from former students whenever they see him. I am grateful that my grandson is one of those students.)