By Marty Mayfield
KRTN Multi-Media
Nick Cardenas spoke to the board about issues with people running stop signs and not observing the bus lights for children loading and unloading. Cardenas also noted that the transportation department is looking at propane powered buses as diesel is expensive and maintenance on diesel engines is very expensive. The vender for the buses also offers a weeklong maintenance program. The state will offer a grant to cover the infrastructure costs which will include a pump and storage tank.
Cardenas told the board that they are having issues with drivers running stop signs and passing buses loading or unloading which is particularly dangerous especially for the younger students exiting buses and around the schools. The blinking red light at Longfellow is especially bad in the afternoons.
In the principal reports enrollment remains stable this month with attendance averaging about 93% at RIS.
RHS recently had a field trip to Vermejo Park Ranch and the ranch will be working with 13 students who are interested in internships on the ranch this summer. Luna Community College is working to setup a CDL program if enough students enroll Luna could bring a driving simulator to Raton otherwise students will need to travel to Springer. The school is continuing to work with Santa Fe Community College and MCMC on a Certified Nurse Assistant program.
Board members heard from Myra Baird about the proposal for the HVAC system and have agreed to contract with RTM Engineering Consultants for the HVAC design and construction services for the new school. The cost of the district’s portion of the contract is for $61,473.23 including GRT.
Members also heard about the proposal from AGI which is the recommended consultant for the roofing work on the new school. The district’s portion of the contract is $87,328.85 including GRT.
It was noted that having these contracts in place ahead of the design and construction phase allows for smother transition during that phase of the project.
The next regular meeting for the next board meeting will be January 15, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at the High School.
