Las Cruces first grade teacher Nancy Orta named 2026 New Mexico Teacher of the Year
Nancy Orta, a first grade teacher at East Picacho Elementary in Las Cruces, has been named the 2026 New Mexico Teacher of the Year. She will represent the state nationally.
East Picacho Elementary educator recognized for decades of work in literacy and early childhood education
Organ Mountain News report
LAS CRUCES - A surprise assembly at East Picacho Elementary on Monday morning turned into a career highlight for first-grade teacher Nancy Orta.
Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla named Orta the 2026 New Mexico Teacher of the Year, recognizing her for more than two decades of commitment to literacy, early childhood education and student success.
“Congratulations to Nancy Orta on this incredible achievement,” Padilla said. “Working with our youngest students takes tremendous talent, kindness and, of course, patience — and Ms. Orta exemplifies all of those traits in abundance. I look forward to gaining insight from her unique teaching experiences.”
Orta began teaching in 2000 and later served for 10 years as a reading interventionist. Since 2019, she has taught kindergarten and first grade, using the Science of Reading and systematic phonics instruction to strengthen foundational skills. She also incorporates literacy programs such as Heggerty, Handwriting Without Tears and decodable texts.
Her impact extends beyond her classroom. Orta has taught education courses at New Mexico State University, preparing future teachers with the same high expectations and compassion she brings to her own students. She has also facilitated STEM enrichment through NMSU’s afterschool programs.
Orta earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from NMSU and a master’s degree in curriculum and instruction from Grand Canyon University.
She will represent New Mexico in the National Teacher of the Year competition and serve as a statewide spokesperson for the teaching profession.
The New Mexico Oil and Gas Association sponsors the Teacher of the Year program, which provides travel and professional development support.
The award, established in 1963, invites nominations from districts and charter schools statewide to honor educators who exemplify classroom excellence and leadership.
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