Karen Sanchez-Griego
Superintendent
Cuba Independent School District
Cuba, NM USA
“Without teachers, we have nothing else.”
Videos
By Roadtrip NationKaren Sanchez-Griego
Milestones
My road in life has been direct.
After facing systemic racism in school, I was driven to pursue law for social justice.
Discouraged by a counselor, I shifted away from aspiring lawyer and found an unexpected path in education.
I started teaching English and history, finding my passion in advocating for underrepresented students.
Wanting to enact more change, I decided to go back to school for educational leadership, ultimately aiming for a principalship.
As a high school principal, I challenged the status quo and advocated for equitable education for all.
I moved to Arlington, Virginia, for a leadership role, but returned home to make a deeper impact.
I continued to devote myself to leading transformative educational initiatives while focusing on culturally responsive practices and systemic change.
I now serve as the superintendent of Cuba Independent School District in New Mexico.
Education
High School
Bachelor
Political Science and Secondary Education
College of Santa Fe
Political Science and Secondary Education
College of Santa Fe
Graduate
Educational Leadership
University of New Mexico
Educational Leadership
University of New Mexico
Doctorate
Educational Leadership
University of New Mexico
Educational Leadership
University of New Mexico
Career
Superintendent
I lead educational initiatives and provide professional leadership as a school district superintendent.
Career Roadmap
My work combines:
My work combines:
Education
Business
Teaching / Mentoring
Day to Day
I try to get tasks done before people arrives on campus. I listen in on student pick-ups on my district radio. Sometimes I help schools welcome the kids or attend Catholic Mass with the community. My meetings begin at 9:00 AM. If schools need me, I pivot to support my leaders. I spend time working on grants and funding. I try to attend school dismissal or listen on the radio. My door is open for anyone who needs me. In the evenings, I attend community meetings, take calls, and read emails.
Recommended Education
My career is related to what I studied. I'd recommend the path I took:
Bachelor
Political Science and Secondary Education
Political Science and Secondary Education
Graduate
Educational Leadership
Educational Leadership
Doctorate
Educational Leadership
Educational Leadership
Hurdles
The Noise I Shed
From Myself:
"I'm a failure for leaving a good opportunity to come home."
Interviewed By
Education's Future: Measuring Student Success
Education's Future: Measuring Student Success
