Established in 1899 Santa Fe High School stands proudly. It’s one of New Mexico’s oldest high schools. Originally located downtown near the Plaza it moved to its current hilltop location in 1966. The transition was gradual. The downtown campus finally closed in 1977.
Santa Fe High boasts a diverse curriculum. It offers Advanced Placement courses and dual credit opportunities. Small learning academies foster strong teacher-student relationships. Principal Jaime Chavez leads the school. She’s known for her striking red hair. This commitment to academics shines through. The school’s AP program regularly outperforms state and national averages. In 2017 the AP exam participation rate was 42 percent.
But Santa Fe High is more than just academics. It has a rich history of athletic success. The school’s sports teams have won over 28 state championships. The tennis teams of the 1980s were particularly dominant. They went undefeated in dual matches from 1979 to 1983. The cross country team in the late 1970s and early 1980s was also incredibly successful. It won twelve state titles under Coach John Alire.
Santa Fe High also has a vibrant student life. The Demon Tattler the school newspaper has served students for over 60 years. It’s now an online publication. Students in the journalism class work as reporters and video producers. They create daily news videos for the Demon Tattler’s YouTube channel. Barbara Gerber heads the journalism department. John Morrison leads the video production team.
The school also participates in the US Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Program. It’s a testament to the school’s commitment to sustainability. Santa Fe High has installed solar panels. These help power the school’s campus. This commitment to sustainability shows the school’s concern for the future.
Santa Fe High School is a place of learning. It is a place of achievement. It is a place of community. It is a place that embodies the spirit of Santa Fe. It is a place where students learn and grow. They leave ready to contribute positively to the world.