Jacquelyn Archuleta-Staehlin

NMPED News:

SANTA FE — The Public Education Department (PED) has hired Jacquelyn Archuleta-Staehlin as its newest deputy cabinet secretary.

“I couldn’t pass up the opportunity to do something to make a difference,” said Archuleta-Staehlin, the product of Santa Fe Public Schools who was born in New Mexico.

As part of her role, Archuleta-Staehlin will oversee the action plan related to the Martinez/Yazzie Consolidated Lawsuit, which creates an equitable system of supports for students, especially those who are English learners, Native Americans, have an Individualized Education Program and/or are socio-economically disadvantaged.

“I am beginning with the end in mind,” Archuleta-Staehlin said. “By devoting our work to the mission of making sure that these student groups have the resources, support and creative partnerships to unlock their inherent gifts, we are writing the playbook on access to high-quality education.”

Secretary of Education Dr. Kurt Steinhaus agreed. “We know Jackie will champion positive educational experiences and improved outcomes for all New Mexico students. Her experience will fit in well with the work we are doing to move the education needle.”

Formerly a partner in the Santa Fe office of Cuddy & McCarthy, Archuleta-Staehlin focused on education and disability law during much of her 30 years there. Archuleta-Staehlin has served as a commissioner for the State Bar of New Mexico and president for the New Mexico Women’s Bar and is a member of the Hispanic Bar Association. She received her bachelor’s degree from New Mexico State University and her law degree from the University of New Mexico.

The new deputy cabinet secretary has an adult son who lives in Japan with her three granddaughters.
Although she had contemplated retirement, Archuleta-Staehlin took the job “to make things better,” she said, adding, “let’s see what the new adventures hold.”