I firmly believe that as an educator, I must continue to professionally develop myself throughout my career. To do this, I have relied on the knowledge and expertise of others as well as their coaching and advice. The Presidential Award represents recognition of the tireless work of not only myself, but those around me who have contributed to my growth as an educator, specifically in mathematics.  

Vivian Valencia Ohkay Owingeh, NM | K-6, Mathematics, 2012

The official biography below was current at the time of the award.

Vivian Valencia has been an educator for 9 years. She spent the last 8 years teaching at San Juan Elementary School in the Española Public School District and will be teaching second grade at Fairview Elementary School for the 2013-2014 school year. Providing support and assistance to other educators has always been of great importance to Vivian. She has mentored novice teachers as well as collaborated with her colleagues on instructional practices in the content areas of mathematics and science. The Northern New Mexico Math and Science Academy has videotaped Vivian teaching both mathematics and science for use in the professional development of other educators. Vivian successfully completed the Northern New Mexico Math and Science Academy's 3-year professional development program in mathematics. She was one of nine teachers who piloted inquiry-based science in northern New Mexico. Vivian has also received professional development in the Common Core State Standards for mathematics and has provided professional development to teachers of her grade level throughout the district. Vivian has a B.A. in education from New Mexico Highlands University and an M.A. in teaching from New Mexico State University. She is currently working toward a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of New Mexico. Her research interest is rural mathematics education.

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