Santa Fe Public Schools (SFPS) is proud to announce several key leadership transitions for the upcoming school year, underscoring the district’s commitment to student success, equity, and strong instructional leadership.
Jaime Holladay, a veteran educator, has been named the new Assistant Superintendent of Elementary School Support. Holladay has served the district in multiple roles, including high school teacher, assessment and SAT coordinator, and most recently as principal of Capital High School (CHS) for the past six years. Under her leadership, CHS received numerous recognitions from AVID, GEAR UP, the College Board, and the New Mexico Public Education Department’s Language and Culture Bureau—a testament to her dedication to expanding equitable access to rigorous coursework for all students. She began her teaching career in Nevada and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education and a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Assessment.
She succeeds Kathy Casaus, who recently retired after serving for many years in the same position. Casaus leaves behind a legacy of unwavering support for elementary education and countless contributions to the district.
SFPS extends its gratitude to Casaus for her years of service and congratulates Holladay on her new role. We look forward to continued excellence and innovation in elementary education under her leadership.
Stepping into the role of Principal at CHS is Lisa Vigil, who has served as an Associate Principal at the school for the past three years. With 20 years in education—including 12 in SFPS—Vigil brings extensive experience as a teacher, instructional coach, school leader, and director. She has a Master of Arts in Curriculum and Instruction and completed the Educational Leadership program at New Mexico Highlands University.
“I’m honored to lead Capital High School and continue working alongside our dedicated staff and families to ensure every student thrives,” said Vigil.
Dr. Alexandra Robertson, formerly an Associate Principal at CHS, has been named Principal of Ortiz Middle School. Dr. Robertson is a dynamic leader with a deep commitment to adolescent development, student voice, and academic excellence. She brings a wealth of experience in school leadership and instructional coaching and has played a critical role in supporting student achievement at CHS. Her leadership at Ortiz is expected to build upon the school’s strengths and further engage families and community partnerships in support of student learning.
At the elementary level, Janice Ulibarri has been named Principal of Kearny Elementary School. She most recently served as the Assistant Principal at Ramirez Thomas Elementary. Ulibarri brings over 18 years of PreK–8 experience and has been a key leader in expanding the school’s Dual Language Program. A bilingual educator, Ulibarri has led initiatives in differentiated instruction, schoolwide PBIS, and data-informed decision-making. She holds a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from New Mexico Highlands University.
“We are incredibly proud to welcome this talented group of leaders into their new roles,” said Superintendent Dr. Christine Griffin. “Their dedication to student-centered leadership and academic excellence will continue to move our district forward.”