RRPS Fine Arts Department wins three awards from NM Music Educators Association

The Rio Rancho Public Schools Fine Arts Department recently won three awards from the New Mexico Educators Association.

The district won the Award of Distinction, which honors districts that have shown support for and commitment to high-quality music education programs.

Courtesy of RRPS.
Rebecca Kendall, the Choir Director at RRHS, was recognized as the 2023 New and Emerging Teacher of the Year.

Rebecca Kendall, the choir director at Rio Rancho High School, was named as the 2023 New and Emerging Teacher of the Year for demonstrating significant success in her early years of music teaching.

Kurt Schmidt, the executive director for the RRPS Fine Arts Department, was awarded the 2023 Administrator of the Year for his continual work supporting the district’s music education programs.

“This is the third time RRPS has received the NMMEA Award of Distinction, which recognizes a school district’s commitment to music education,” Schmidt said. “I have witnessed firsthand the importance RRPS places not only on music, but all the arts. The award is a testament, above all else, to the talent and dedication of the fine music teachers we have in Rio Rancho. I have spent nearly my entire professional career in RRPS, and would never consider working anywhere else.”