I believe that a quality education system begins with effective leadership within the school and a clear vision that all students can achieve success. Through my roles in the classroom as a teacher, reading interventionist, instructional coach, assistant principal, and now principal, I have firsthand experience of what it takes for education to succeed for all students, regardless of socioeconomic status or background. Over the past 23 years in education, I’ve worked in diverse settings across New Mexico and Texas, gaining valuable insights into various cultures, backgrounds, and student needs.

As principal of Braeburn Elementary, I believe leadership is founded on meaningful relationships and transparent communication. I am committed to fostering a supportive community for students and staff and implementing school-wide systems to facilitate growth and excellence. Positive role models and a strong community are essential for nurturing students’ belief in their abilities. My daily commitment is to create a positive impact for staff, students, and families, empowering our youth to become impactful leaders.

I am passionate about continuous education and personal growth. I view habits as investments that yield long-term returns, and I enjoy staying updated with new research, philosophies, theories, and practices in education and psychology. I earned my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a minor in Math from the University of New Mexico, followed by a Master of Arts in Language, Literacy, and Sociocultural Studies. My educational leadership studies were completed at Eastern University of New Mexico. Currently, my focus is on refining processes to enhance reading effectiveness.

In 2012, I was honored with the Teacher of the Year award. In 2020, I initiated a schoolwide initiative that significantly increased positive interactions among students, resulting in an 87% decrease in referrals. I was selected to present our success story at a statewide educational conference, sharing our strategies with neighboring districts. In 2022, our school was named the most improved school district-wide and was recognized at the state level.

Leading Braeburn Elementary is both a privilege and a passion. I am dedicated to cultivating a nurturing environment where every student excels academically and personally. My career is driven by a commitment to equity and excellence, shaped by diverse educational experiences across New Mexico and Texas. As principal, I prioritize fostering strong relationships and building high-quality instruction to ensure our school community excels and creates students ready for the future. Together, we will nurture leadership qualities in our youth, making a lasting positive impact for tomorrow.

Hollie Zamora

Principal