Pueblo of Isleta website: www.isletapueblo.com (2024)
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Volume 19 Issue 3
Isleta Pueblo News
Pueblo of Isleta website: www.isletapueblo.com
March 2024
Governor’s Report
Maguwam,
I would like to wish the entire community
good health while we gear into the month
of March. As we approach into farming
and fire season, I would like to remind the
community to continue to practice safety
while out in the fields, farming, etc. Also,
just a reminder to everyone if you are
feeling sick, please stay home to prevent
the spread of any illness.
see the developments we are making and
continue to make for the pueblo.
The Department of Natural Resources
would like to announce the Ditch Work
dates will be determined at a later time.
Please contact your Association Mayordomo
and Treasurer for payment of ditch dues
and assessments.
In the month of February, we have been
super busy as myself, Lt. Jiron and Lt.
Abeita attended the 2024 American Indian
Day at the State Capitol. I was honored
to provide the invocation and some brief
remarks to kick off the day’s events.
As we continue to stay busy thru the
month, we have met with state officials
during the New Mexico legislative
session. I successfully advocated for Isleta
Department of Education summer youth
programming and secured funding from
Representative Harry Garcia to provide
cultural and educational programming for
the next two summers. I met with Governor
Lujan Grisham and she supported my
request for funding to begin design of
the historic Pueblo of Isleta Main Street
Restoration and for additional vehicles for
the Rec Center. We appreciate the support
of Representative Garcia and Governor
Lujan Grisham.
I also have had the opportunity to meet
with the APS Board of Education Member
Josefina Dominguez. In hopes to address the
importance of the ongoing education issues
and more inclusive tribal consultation
policies. We continue to appreciate Josefina
Dominguez’s advocacy as she continues to
provide for our pueblo.
As elections are around the corner, I have
met with the Valencia County Clerk Milam
and his staff to discuss the upcoming 2024
state and presidential elections. As the
result of our meeting, Valencia County will
be providing an early voting and election
day voting location, as well as translation
services at the Veterans center for this
year’s election. We are including the flyer
of information of important dates.
We welcomed Senator Martin Heinrich’s
Chief of Staff and his team to the pueblo
for a tour of our Cultural and Historic
department along with the Assisted Living
and the Health Center. They are touring to
He continues to thrive toward his future in
following his dreams, as we wish for many
of our young youth in focusing in their
futures. Let’s continue to remind our youth
that they can be anything they want to be
as long as put their mind to it.
I would like to remind all tribal members,
anyone needing a burn permit to please
see the Department of Natural Resources.
They are located in the same building as
Transportation/Motor Pool- we are on the
south side 3929 Hwy 47 Albuquerque,
NM 87105. For more information, please
contact her at 505-869-9817.
Myself along with the whole tribal
administration office would like to send
our condolences to the Lente Family, and I
would like to honor the late Tribal Council
President Michael Allen Lente for devoting
his time to the Pueblo of Isleta.
Last, I want to send my condolences to the
families of those who have lost their family
members during the month of February.
I would like for the community to join me
in sending best wishes and congratulations
to one of our very own tribal members,
Jeremiah Lujan. Jeremiah has a passion
in roping, farming, welding and lending
a helping hand to anyone who is in need.
Ha-Wuh
Max A. Zuni
Governor
Pueblo of Isleta
Page 2
Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
DEADLINE for April Newsletter articles is set for
Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 4:30 pm. Articles may be
dropped off at the Library or emailed to Nathaniel.Lujan@
isletapueblo.com. Should you email your article, expect a
confirmation email. If you do not receive a confirmation
email, odds are it never made it to me and then it’s time to
panic, so call Nate at 505.869.9808.
People who wish to submit an article or flyer are responsible
for generating their own article or flyer. Should you need
help, please call the Library at 505.869.9808 and set up a
date and time to sit down with a Library staff member who
will help you throughout the process. The Library will NOT
accept notes dropped off at the Library or information over
the phone to generate your article.
PROBATES need to be published in the Newsletter for
two consecutive months. Probates are considered court
documents, therefore, all submitters must provide: 1)
Name of Deceased, 2) Date of Deceased 3) Court Case #
and 4) Date of Court Date. A Probate form can be found on
the Newsletter Archive page at http://www.isletapueblo.
com/newsletters.html .
TRIBAL COURTS
CLASSIFIED ADS: The new administration has requested
that the Newsletter start a Classified Ad section for Tribal
members selling land, houses, mobile homes, vehicles, and
farm equipment. Leasing of houses and mobile homes will
be accepted. Smaller items which can be sold at the local
flea markets or weekly yard sales will NOT be accepted.
WHEN: Friday April 05, 2024.
Currently, this service is FREE to Tribal members. Land,
houses, and mobile homes must be within the reservation
boundaries. Ads must meet the 160 character limit. Ads
that exceed the 160 characters will NOT be submitted into
the Newsletter. A single picture may be submitted with
the ad. Submitters of classified ads are responsible for
generating their own ads as this is a FREE service.
Tribal Court Warrant Amnesty Day
Isleta Tribal Court is offering an amnesty day to clear up any warrants you
may have.
If you have a warrant, we are offering a day of amnesty for you to come be
heard, and get your warrant resolved.
TIME: 9:00am – 3:30pm
LOCATION: Isleta Tribal Court
HOW: Come to the Tribal Court on the above-mentioned day at any time
between 9:00am -3:30pm, and the court will immediately hear your case to
resolve your warrant. You will not be arrested upon first sight. You will be
given an opportunity to be heard and your record reviewed.
President
Michael Allen Lente
As a reminder, Tribal business owners may submit a small
flyer at no charge. Like the classified ads, business owners
are responsible for generating their own flyers as this is a
FREE service.
Classified ads and business flyers will be posted no
more than two consecutive months. In the event where
the Newsletter may exceed the 24-page limit, classified
ads and business flyers will be “bumped” for newsletter
articles. Again, this is a FREE service for Tribal members.
The Isleta Newsletter is owned and operated by the Pueblo
of Isleta. Therefore, the Governor of the Pueblo of Isleta
has the final say of all articles and contents within the
Isleta Newsletter.
For additional questions, you may call the Library and
speak with Nate or Diane at 505.869.9808.
Thank you,
Nathaniel Lujan
Newsletters may be found at the fifteen distribution
locations listed below. Remember, Digital copies of the
Newsletter may be obtained from the Newsletter archive
at http://www.isletapueblo.com/newsletters.html
The fifteen Newsletter distribution locations are:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
11.
12.
13.
14.
15.
TR 2 & TR 22 - Chical SE of Community Hall
TR 10 - Behind the old 47 Sales
TR 1 & TR 5 – Ranchitos / Bosque Farms
Reservations Line
Ranchitos Park
Post Office - Big Tree
TR 82 & TR 84 - Teller Road
TR 78 & TR 82 - Carlos Trujillo Sr.
TR 90 @ Y - CF Padilla
Mouse Town Park –
Health Center – South end of Health
Center Parking lot
Library Sunlight & Moonlight Intersection
TR 6 - 47 Intersection
TR 12 - 47 & 147 intersection (Old Smoke & Save)
TR 71 & TR 54 @ Y - Holiday Robot / Paved Road /
Railroad Tracks
TR 45 & TR 40 @ Y - Tata Mel (POI Signage)
In the short time that we worked with you, the memories of the good
times we shared will forever remain a treasure. You were a man with
a great heart of service not only to your family but those you served.
You showed so much compassion and displayed a lot of humility so
much that every one of us seeks to emulate you. Never wanting to be
compensated for your time on Council or the extra hours you put in.
You were a great leader, someone with patience and a love for hard
work. Thank you for being the kind of man you were to us, a true
mentor and friend. Rest on, President Lente.
Jolynn, Anna, and Sabin
March 2024
PUEBLO OF ISLETA DEPARTMENT OF
CULTURAL & HISTORIC PRESERVATION
CULTURAL CENTER
CALL TO ARTISTS
Work Media: Pottery, Jewelry, Moccasins, Men
& Women’s Traditional & Contemporary Clothing,
Paintings, and Sculptures.
Work Size: Items will need to fit inside a 4’(H) x
3’(W) x 1’(D) display case, there will be six (6) cases to
display works of art.
Entry Requirements: All entries must be original
Isleta works of art from Isleta Tribal Members.
REQUIREMENTS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Contact the Cultural Center at (505) 869-9767
to set up an appointment.
Bring work of art to be reviewed (max. 4 items)
Artist Statement or Bio no more than a
paragraph Title/Date of Work
Photograph of Artist
Timeline:
Exhibit is ongoing, display cases will
be changed every 6-9 months to ensure other tribal
member works of art are displayed.
Entries Due: On-going
Selection Process: All works of art will be reviewed
and selected by the Cultural Center staff. Selected
works will be displayed for 6-9 months, afterwards
the items will be returned to owners and a new set of
community artwork will be displayed. If artist is not
selected, they may be put on a waitlist to be displayed
at a later time.
Notification to artist: Cultural staff will contact
artist based on the artist’s preferred method of contact.
Delivery/Pick-up:
Pueblo of Isleta Cultural
Center (POICC) Tribal Road 40, Building 71, Isleta,
NM 87022
Sales:
POICC is looking to display community
Artwork “On Loan” at this time. Any artwork for sale
will be handled by the Artist, not POICC.
Contact: M. Stephanie Zuni, DCHP/POICC Director
(505) 869-9768 or Marilyn.zuni@isletapueblo.com
CALL FOR PHOTOS
Pueblo of Isleta Cultural Center is searching
for Pueblo Photos of any persons or personnel
who worked at the Isleta Health Center in
the past. Early photos of Nurse Sandman?
Anyone?
We are also searching for photographs of the
Isleta Elementary School interior or exterior
before renovation. Photos may be of students,
teachers or activities held at the school.
You may contact the Cultural Center at
(505) 869-9767
LAND FOR SALE
•
•
•
4.782+ Acres
Tribal Road 10
Call, Text, or Voicemail
Kimo @ (505) 506-3432
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 3
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 4
Job Postings
OUR LOCATION
Visit us online at
http://www.isleta.com/career-opportunities.aspx
Fax: 505-244-8232
March 2024
Isleta Resort and Casino is located 7 minutes south of
downtown Albuquerque at Interstate 25 and Hwy 47, exit
215. The Human Resources office can be found on the east
side of the building through the Employee Entrance doors.
HR news from Isleta
Resort & Casino
POI/IRC Health & Wellness
Fair – Friday, October 13th in the
Isleta Ballrooms from 9am to 3pm
o Come out and learn about the
new benefits for both POI and IRC
team members!
Enhanced medical benefits for employee family
members.
Enhanced dental benefits to include orthodontic
coverage for adults.
Addition of MDLIVE which offers reliable 24/7
health care by phone or video for medical and
mental health support.
Pet insurance coverage.
AND MORE!!!
October Career Fair – Wednesday, October 18th
from 10am to 3pm in Triple 7’s
o Meet face-to-face with Hiring Managers who will
be interviewing and hiring on the spot!
o Learn more about all of the great career
opportunities and benefits Isleta Resort & Casino
has to offer.
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 5
Affordable Connectivity Program
The Affordable Connectivity Program is an FCC benefit
program that helps ensure that households can afford the
broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more.
The benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month
toward internet service for eligible households and up to
$75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands.
Eligible households can also receive a one-time discount of
up to $100 to purchase a laptop, desktop computer, or tablet
from participating providers if they contribute more than
$10 and less than $50 toward the purchase price.
The Affordable Connectivity Program is limited to one
monthly service discount and one device discount per
household.
Who Is Eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program?
A household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity
Program if the household income is at or below 200% of the
Federal Poverty Guidelines, or if a member of the household
meets at least one of the criteria below:
●
Received a Federal Pell Grant during the current
award year;
●
Meets the eligibility criteria for a participating
provider's existing low-income internet program;
●
Participates in one of these assistance programs:
• Free and Reduced-Price School Lunch Program
or School Breakfast Program, including at U.S.
Department of Agriculture (USDA) Community
Eligibility Provision schools.
•SNAP
•Medicaid
•Federal Housing Assistance, including:
Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) Program
(Section 8 Vouchers)
Project-Based Rental Assistance (PBRA)/
Section 202/ Section 811
Public Housing
Affordable Housing Programs for American
Indians, Alaska Natives or Native Hawaiians
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• WIC
• Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
• or Lifeline;
●
Participates in one of these assistance programs and
lives on Qualifying Tribal lands:
• Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
• Tribal TANF
• Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations
•Tribal Head Start (income based)
Apply now! www.GetInternet.gov
Goodwill
Goodwill Good jobs offers individuals free
assistance with job search, interview skills, and
resume assistance.
Contact : Vicki Herring
Career specialist at
505-944-0289
Vicki Herring
Career Specialist
Goodwill Industries of New Mexico
_______________________________________________________
vherring@goodwillnm.org
505-944-0289 or 505-881-6401 x4097
201 Desert Willow Rd,
Los Lunas, NM 87031
www.Goodwillit.org
2024 Fire Season
Pueblo of Isleta Fire Department
Fire season is here! The Isleta Pueblo
Fire Dept. will be available to assist
and stand-by for community members
with agricultural burns. Burn permits
are required, instructions on burn
permit must be followed.
For more info contact the numbers listed below.
Fire Chief 505-869-9724
Isleta Dispatch 505-869-3030
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 6
March 2024
Pueblo of Isleta Career Opportunities
Position Posting
Office Location
Closing Date
Position Posting Office Location
Closing Date
March 2024
Position Posting Office Location
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 7
Closing Date
2024 AMERIND
Safety Poster Contest
Encourage your students to submit a safety themed poster for the
AMERIND 2024 Safety Poster Contest. They could win $1,000!
One national winner in each of the three categories (K-3, 4-6, 7-8)
receives $1,000.00.
February 2024 – May 2024
Isleta Pueblo Housing Authority (IPHA) is one of several housing
authorities hosting the AMERIND Safety Poster Contest. The
theme can be any safety topic you would like. Some examples are:
Fire Safety, Driving Safety, etc. All posters should be submitted to
IPHA no later than May 31, 2024.
June 2024 – August 2024
IPHA will select one winner from each category (K-3, 4-6, 7-8).
Winners will then be sent to SWTHA Region VIII for Regional
Voting no later than June 30, 2024. Winners from the Regional
voting will be sent to AMERIND Safety Service Team no later than
August 31, 2024.
September 2024
National online voting. One winner from each category is selected.
November 2024
Winners will be announced at the AMERIND Annual Meeting.
Instructions
1.
Use blank 8-1/2 x 11 sheet of paper
2.
Clearly print on one side of paper
First and Last Name
Grade
Tribal affiliation
Phone Number
Housing Authority: “ISLETA PUEBLO
HOUSING AUTHORITY”
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
3.
On blank side of paper, create your masterpiece.
4.
Deliver your masterpiece to IPHA for submission!!!
Attention: Pueblo of Isleta Community
Public Works has implanted a new work order system for
community work orders.
Community members can submit a work order the following
ways:
1. Below is a QR Code you can scan with a smart device
2. You can access the link on the Pueblo of Isleta Website
3. Calling Public Works Office at 505-869-5170
Please provide as much information as possible about the work
order being placed. We will need the following information:
• What is the issue?
• Location (Complete Address)
• Contact Name & Number
• Attached pictures, if any
NOTE: Please one work order per
submittal! Our new system will not
generate multiple work orders in
one submission.
Not providing all detail information
on your work order may cause a
delay!
We understand that not everyone has access to a smart device
or computer to submit a work order, calling into Public Works
Office at 505-869-5170 is still available.
Page 8
Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
Census/Tribal Enrollment Department
I hope this memo finds you and your families doing well and staying
safe. The Census office is located in the village proper north of the
Governor’s office. Our address is 123 Tribal Road 40, Isleta, NM
87022. Hours of operation are Monday- Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm.
Address Updates:
Please make sure to update your address each time you move so
our office has the most current information on file. We have noticed
a lot of address issues within the Census and Treasury department
during the past distributions. Our office is the main source that
other departments use to verify information. You may also call our
office to verify your information regularly to avoid any issues.
New Address update policy:
Address Change
a) Tribal members are responsible for maintaining a current
address with the Tribal Census/Enrollment Department.
b) Acceptable documentation of a change of address shall include
at least two (2) of the following:
1. A valid, state issued driver’s license or government-issued
identification card listing the new address.
2. A current utility bill with the requester’s name and address
listed on the statement. Eligible utilities bills shall include propane
bills.
3. Current insurance card or bill showing the requestor’s name and
address.
4. Current real property rental agreement or purchase agreement
showing the requestor’s name and address.
5. State Medical or Public Assistance with requestor’s name and
address on card, letter from issuing agency showing requestor’s
name and address, or profile print out from issuing agency showing
the same.
6. Bank or credit card statement not more than 60 days old.
7. Employment pay stub containing requestor’s name and address.
8. Documentation from an education institution such as a
transcript, report card, or enrollment information.
9. A notarized change of address authorization.
Tribal Identification Cards:
Tribal Identification cards will be issued every Tuesday and
Thursday by appointment. Any lost or stolen ID’s will have a
replacement fee of $20.00, money order only. Made payable to the
Pueblo of Isleta. Please note a limit of 1 replacement ID will be
issued per year.
Reminder** ALL TRIBAL IDENTIFICATION CARDS HAVE
AN EXPIRATION DATE OF FIVE (5) YEARS.
**ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS MUST BE ON FILE WITH
THE TRIBAL ENROLLMENT/CENSUS OFFICE PRIOR TO
RECEIVING A TRIBAL IDENTIFICATION CARD. **
Birth and Certificates:
The Census office cannot make or accept copies of state birth
certificates, it is illegal to alter, copy or counterfeit birth certificates.
State of NM Birth Certificates may be obtained through the
Census/Tribal Enrollment Department. We will continue to make
monthly visits to New Mexico Vital Statistics on behalf of tribal
members. An Authorization form must be signed and notarized
at the Census/Tribal Enrollment Department giving Director or
Enrollment Clerk authorization to obtain Birth Certificate on
behalf of Tribal Member. The cost for each certified certificate is
$10.00 each with cash, check or money order payable to: NM Vital
Records Office. P.O. Box 25767 Albuquerque, NM 87125
Death Certificates:
There have been many questions regarding the death certificate
process. As a reminder, the Pueblo of Isleta, Census/Tribal
Enrollment Department will kindly assist family members in the
completion of death certificates of all Tribal Members. Paperwork
needs to be completed by the family before starting the process on
the state system. Paperwork can be picked up at the Census office.
Once the death certificate has been approved and registered with
the NM State Vital Office, an Authorization form must be signed
and notarized at the Census/Tribal Enrollment Department
giving Director or Enrollment Clerk authorization to obtain Death
Certificate on behalf of the family.
All Certified Death Certificate copies are $5.00 each with cash,
check or money order payable to: NM Vital Records Office. P.O.
Box 25767 Albuquerque, NM 87125
Minor IIM accounts:
Our office assists any minor who is now of age to request to
withdraw their Individual Indian Money (IIM) account. Forms are
available here in our office. Also, address updates can be updated
here at the census office for any IIM account.
Also, the office of US - Department of Interior - Bureau of Trust
Funds Administration sent us a list of Isleta Tribal Members whose
whereabouts unknown (WAU). If your name, or someone you know,
name is on the list below please call or come to the Census office for
assistance. You may also check on the website https://www.doi.gov/
ost/wau to see full list of names.
Whereabouts Unknown
ERIC V. ABEITA
NOAH ABEITA
AMBROSE J ANDERSON
AMANDA L ARAGON
DANEEN R BEARDSLEY
DAMIAN CUARON
ARMANDO I GARCIA
STEVEN E GARCIA
JOHN D JARAMILLO
JUSTIN E JIRON
KATERI JOJOLA
BRANDON L JOJOLA
ANDRES D JOJOLA
DANYELLE R LUCERO
WESSON LUCERO
BERETTALYN LUCERO
HANNAH M LUCERO
ANTHONY W LUCERO
KENNETH HOWARD LUCERO
ZION L LUJAN
ELIANNA L LUJAN
LINDA LYNCH
ZINIA L MARTIN
DESIDARIO B B MARTIN
CRYSTAL G PADILLA
NATHAN PIRO
Residence Ordinance:
Any non-tribal member wishing to reside on the reservation must
have a residence ordinance application on file. Applications are
available for pick up only at our office. This ordinance is being
enforced by Governor’s and IPD, please make sure your application
is up-to-date. Due to delays in background checks, this application
can take up to 6 weeks or longer to complete. Note: only one nontribal member can be sponsored by enrolled tribal member (over
the age of 18) per household. Any minor non-tribal members do not
need an application. Please verify with our office the status of your
application or any concerns you may have.
From the Tribal Enrollment Committee
For the month of January 2024, the Tribal enrollment committee
has enrolled 4 new Tribal members.
On Land base
No
Yes
Yes
No
Isleta Blood
1/4
1/4
5/16
1/4
Gender
Female
Male
Male
Female
Age
23
4
7
50
Please contact the Pueblo of Isleta Census/Tribal Enrollment
Department at (505) 869-9766 if you have any questions.
Census/Tribal Enrollment Staff,
Nanette Mariano, Director
Ashlee Abeita, Enrollment Clerk
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 9
Pueblo of Isleta
Fire Department
3950 Hwy 47
Albuquerque, NM 87105
505-869-9724
With winter almost over and spring is blooming
so starts the beginning of another fire season.
As we begin smelling smoke, the Isleta Pueblo
Fire Department, and all Pueblo partners want to
remind Community members and visitors of the
important role that fire plays in our community.
The fire department’s goal is to become a fire-wise
and fire-safe community. In order to accomplish
this mission, the Isleta Pueblo Fire Department is
in the process of establishing a community-wide
fire patrol and Burn assistance program. This
patrol and assistance is designed to assist the
members of the community in the planning and
execution of controlled burns of agricultural and
cultural areas.
Over the past several years we have had an
increase in agricultural burns. Currently the
Pueblo of Isleta has issued over 180 burn
permits, which are required for a controlled burn.
To obtain a burn permit you will need to go by the
Department of Natural Resources Office at 3929
Highway 47, you can call the DNR office at 505869-9817 with any questions. On the day of your
burn, you will need to call Isleta Dispatch at 505869-3030 to advise of your location and a good
contact number of who is doing the burning.
The Isleta Fire Department does assist the
community in the burning of fields and ditches if
requested. All you need to do is contact the fire
department for assistance. The fire department
will assist in the pre-planning of any proposed
burns. We will also assist in the establishment of a
sustainable water source for the burn in the event
the property is not located within a reasonable
response area of available water.
We wish to assist the community members
by having a pre-planned fire wise, fire safe
prescribed burn process that will mitigate any
losses of property to the community members
and help decrease any fees or fines in the event
the fire gets out of control.
The Pueblo of Isleta fire department is comprised
of 9 Volunteers, 1 Fire Chief and 6 full time
firefighters. The full time firefighters are on
duty Saturday thru Friday 8:00am to 6:00pm.
Our Volunteers assist when they are available,
usually nights and weekends. All firefighters have
attended the appropriate Wildland Firefighter
training. All firefighters are required under the
National Wild Fire Coordinating Group and
the Southern Pueblos Agency to follow proper
guidelines for wildland firefighting and maintain
the proper certification and personal protective
equipment required.
The fire department works closely with all POI
departments and if we are unable to assist you,
we can direct you to a department that will be
able to assist.
If you have further questions, comments, or wish
the fire department to assist you, please feel free
to contact the Fire Department at 505-869-9724.
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 10
March 2024
Department of Education
to campus support. Take some time to
research schools of your choice to see if they
have a Summer Bridge Program.
Happy March,
The Academic Success Team has been
working hard to get out and meet with high
school students. Before we get into all the
happenings, I would like to welcome Lloyd
Padilla to our team here at the Department
of Education (DoE). Lloyd is the new
Academic Success Coach for the program.
We wish him well with his new position
here at DoE.
The Southwestern Indian Polytechnic
Institute (SIPI) holds an annual “Bridge to
Success Summer Program” that takes place
in June-July, an 8-week program. It is
FREE! Take advantage of this opportunity
and contact SIPI if you have any questions.
Call 505-346-2353
Email:
SUMMERBRIDGE@MAIL.SIPI.EDU
Meet Lloyd…
Hello Community members and family,
My name is Lloyd Padilla, my mother is
from the Navajo Nation, my late father
was part Isleta and Laguna Pueblo. I
was raised primarily Navajo. My late
grandfather was Ricardo Padilla, WW2
Veteran raised here in Isleta.
I have a background in Education,
completed my Bachelor’s degree in
Native American Studies with a Minor
in Psychology and currently working
towards my Master’s degree in Academic
counseling. I taught at the Santa Fe
Indian School and also worked at the
Native American Community Academy
in Albuquerque, NM. During my time
at SFIS, I coached the High School and
Middle School Cross Country boys/girls
teams where our varsity girls won the
2022 State Title.
I want to support Isleta youth in
pursuing their goals and help guide them
in following their dreams. Thank you for
welcoming me into this new position and
I am honored to serve in this role.
The highlight at CNM was their School
of Skilled Trades & Arts (STA) program,
which consist of:
•
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•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Automotive Technology
Aviation Maintenance
Technology
Carpentry and Construction
Diesel Equipment Technology
Electrical Trades
Heating, Ventilating, Air
Conditioning and Refrigeration
Industrial Technology
(Mechatronics)
Machine Tool Technology
Plumbing and Gas Fitting
Welding
Students met with a student and professor
in the Diesel Equipment Technology where
they were able see hands on demonstrations
on what all goes into the program. Both
site visits were a success and we hope that
in the future more students will join us on
these learning opportunities.
During the Los Lunas In-Service day, the
department took a group of students to visit
Southwestern Indian Polytechnic Institute
(SIPI) and Central New Mexico Community
College (CNM). Students were able to tour
both campus’ and ask questions about
each school. One of the highlights at SIPI
was that they have their own optometry
teaching facilities where students learn
how to do eye exams, as well as make eye
lenses for glasses.
Aside from school visits, we have been at Los
Lunas High Schools meeting with students
during their Tiwa classes or during lunch
periods. Students who have been visiting
us during lunches or group meetings
have received information on upcoming
events such as Junior Day at UNM and
our afterschool program. The afterschool
tutoring program has been a great success
and good things are happening with the
K-12 program.
As always it is best to keep up with your
grades from the get go instead of trying
to play catch up towards the end of the
grading.
Shelly & Lloyd – Academic Success Team
PreK-12 Updates
Highschool Visit
The Spring semester has certainly been
a dynamic one. This semester has been
marked with a range of activities and
initiatives aimed to support student
understanding and to enhance student
learning. One initiative included a visit by
our tribal leadership on January 24th to all
the three Los Lunas Public School district
high schools which are Los Lunas High
School, Century High School, and Valencia
High School.
The leadership was able to listen to students’
experiences at school. This included the
benefits and challenges. Students expressed
that academic work, social expectations,
and athletic endeavors weigh heavily in
their minds. Mental health quickly became
the common concern among students. Some
highlights were that students enjoy many of
their teachers and felt supported by them.
In addition, most students expressed their
enjoyment for Tiwa classes and wish they
had more Tiwa related activities within
their academics. It appears that students
felt this could create a stronger sense of
belonging within the school community.
The DoE encouraged Los Lunas staff to
allow students to incorporate their identity
in their projects. Both students and tribal
leaders thoroughly enjoyed the visit.
Tribal leaders were also able to have a
SUMMER BRIDGE PROGRAMS
Most Colleges and Universities offer
“Summer Bridge Programs”. This allows
incoming college freshmen to get a
jumpstart on their first year and refresh
their skills in Math, English and Reading
over the summer. Students also have the
opportunity to experience life as a college
freshman and learn “what to expect” when
the semester starts. During this time
students have the opportunity to seek out
resources, ask questions and get introduced
discussion with Los Lunas Public School
Superintendent, Dr. Kettler. Tribal
leaders heavily focused the Pueblo’s task
of language preservation. Attendance,
academic success and funding were
also topics of discussion - Los Lunas
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 11
administration expressed that they would
support the Pueblo with this daunting
task of improving outcomes for students.
The Governors and Council expressed
that they would love to continue hearing
from both students and Los Lunas School
administration. Tribal leadership felt this
ongoing dialogue was necessary to the
success of Isleta students. Additional visits
have been planned.
Middle School Visits
This Spring semester has also been filled
with trips to visit the middle school
students. On February 6th and 7th, we
visited with students from Los Lunas
Middle School and Valencia Middle School
respectively. During these visits we were
able to bring over 400 books to students.
Students were able to choose as many books
as they wanted. With a little luck and a
little search every student was able find a
book. We hope that this helps create a love
of reading within Isleta students. We enjoy
these visits with students and look forward
to many more.
program has seen the success of student
work. Below you will see how much work
students within the tutoring program
have accomplished. The tutoring program
is both surprised and proud of how much
work the students have accomplished since
the beginnning of the academic year.
•
March
27th
–
College
Engagement/Enrichment Workshop
@ Department of Education (5:007pm)
Higher Education
•
April 24th – College Engagement/
Enrichment Workshop @ Department
of Education (5:00-7pm)
We have completed all Spring 2024 funding.
We wish all POI Scholarship applicants
a successful semester. Our scholarship
application for the Summer 2024 term
will open up March 1st. The deadline date
for the Summer 2024 application is April
1st. All supporting documents are due by
May 31st. Please reach out to your Higher
Education Coordinator if you have any
questions.
If you have graduated Summer/Fall 2023
or will graduate Spring 2024; please notify
your Higher Education Coordinator, so
we can recognize your achievement and
provide your information using the link
below:
All Isleta Graduates:
Elementary Visits
The DoE staff also met with Principals from
Bosque Farms Elementary and Sundance
Elementary. During this time, resources
were shared and discussions on building
partnerships to support academic success
took place.
CALLING ALL GRADUATES FROM HIGH
SCHOOL, TECHNICAL INSTITUTES,
AND COLLEGES, please be sure to let us
know you are graduating or have graduated
by calling our department or filling out
the link below. We want to celebrate your
accomplishments!
https://isletapueblo.formstack.com/
forms/2024_graduate
Tutoring News
You may also use the QR
code to access the form.
Save the Dates:
•
March 6th - College and Career
Fair @Isleta Resort Casino from (48pm), open for all!
•
March 11th – 15th - Spring Break
Camp @ Department of Education
The tutoring program has also seen
innovation. The tutoring program has
created a reward program for students
regularly attending tutoring sessions.
The program looks to incentivize student
academic performance. The tutoring
•
March 19th – FAFSA SUPPORT
NIGHT @ Department of Education
(4-7pm)
•
March 27th - FAFSA SUPPORT
NIGHT @ Department of Education
(4-7pm)
•
April 3rd – American Indian
Junior Day @ UNM (9am)
•
May 5th – Senior Baccalaureate
Mass @ St. Augustine Church (10am)
open for graduates (High School &
College)
As always, the Department of Education
team is here to serve the community. We
consistently communicate with Districts
and schools that serve our students. If you
have any questions or comments, please
reach out to our department at 505-8699790. We encourage you visit our webpage
by searching or googling, Isleta Pueblo
Department of Education in your favorite
browser.
The Department of Education Team
•
PreK-12 (Michael & Jamie)
•
Tutoring (Nicole, Sonja, Elena &
Trinity)
•
Academic Success (Michelle &
Lloyd)
•
Higher Education & Adult
Education (Fran & Sam)
•
Language (Pat, Edna, Martha,
Carol, Rochelle & Ignacio)
•
Administration (Joy, AuDrena &
Charlene
•
Language (Pat, Edna, Martha,
Carol, Rochelle & Ignacio)
•
Administration (Joy, AuDrena &
Charlene
Page 12
Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
Call for Applicants:
The Tribal Council is soliciting letters of interest from
individuals interested in serving on the Pueblo of Isleta
Housing Authority Board of Commissioners (1
position) and The Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Enrollment
Committee (1 position).
Any persons interested in serving on the Board/
Committee are requested to submit a letter of interest,
including a resume/vital to the Tribal Council Office.
Applications will be accepted until the vacancies are
filled.
Qualifications for Pueblo of Isleta Housing Authority
Board of Commissioners are:
1)
Each
Commissioner
shall
possess
communication skills, experience, and expertise
necessary to carry out the duties of a Commissioner,
and to contribute to the ability of the TDHE to achieve
the purposes for which the TDHE was established.
2)
Each Commissioner shall possess at least two
years’ experience in housing development, design,
management, construction/modernization, business
management, personnel, tribal governance, accounting,
financing, or housing inspections, or, in the alternative,
he or she shall possess, at a minimum, an Associate’s
or Bachelor’s Degree in one of the following areas:
Business, Health, Political Science, Building Trades,
Human Services, or Social Services.
3)
Prior to appointment to the Board, each
prospective Commissioner shall submit to a background
investigation and a drug screen. The prospective
Commissioner shall pay for such background
investigation and drug screen, but, upon the TDHE’s
receipt of satisfactory results, shall be reimbursed for
all such costs.
4)
Commissioners shall be Enrolled Members.
5)
Commissioners shall not be employees of the
TDHE.
6)
When nominated and appointed, Commissioners
shall not be past due on any payment owed to the TDHE
or its predecessor entity.
7)
Criminal Background.
a) Conviction of any crime requiring listing on a
Sex Offender Registry site, whether tribal, state, or
federal, shall result in a finding of ineligibility until
such time as the individual is no longer required to
register. Conviction of domestic violence or other
Crime of Violence involving the use, attempted use,
or threatened use of physical force against a Person
or property; or any offense related to conversion of
property or that would tend to reflect their ability to
manage finances shall result in a finding of ineligibility
of the individual as a Commissioner for a period of
five years from conviction, or release from probation,
incarceration, or parole, whichever is later.
b) If, while in office, a Commissioner is charged
with the commission of one or more of such offenses
under this section, he or she shall be immediately
suspended from the Board and shall remain
suspended until such time as the offense or offenses
for which the Commissioner was charged is or are
resolved. If the Commissioner is convicted of the
offense or offenses charged, his or her appointment
to the Board shall be terminated immediately.
If you would like more information, please feel free to
contact the Tribal Council Office at 505-869-9746.
Send letters of interest to:
Tribal Council Office
P.O. Box 1270
Isleta, NM 87022
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
ALBUQUERQUE PUBLIC SCHOOLS
(APS)
Greetings from Indian Education at Albuquerque
Public Schools!
Enrollment in all APS schools is open to all students
who reside in Isleta with free busing available to the
following schools:
Los Padillas Elementary School
Polk Middle School
Rio Grande High School
To register, the first step is for one parent to log in to
ParentVue, If you do not have a ParentVue account,
you can create one here:
https://www.aps.edu/students-parents/parentvuestudentvue/create-your-parentvue-account
Registration for each of your children is completed
through your ParentVue account. There is currently
a bug in the system for many home addresses. If you
have difficulty, please use the school address for Los
Padillas (2525 Los Padillas Rd SW, Albuquerque, NM
87105) to complete registration and then work with
your child's school to fix the address when you visit
the school.
If you would like for your child to attend one of the other
145 APS schools, you can place a transfer request to
the APS school of your choosing. As a member of the
Pueblo of Isleta, who resides in Isleta, your transfer is
given the highest priority.
The transfer request process can be found here:
https://www.aps.edu/schools/transfers/new-studentsrequest-student-id-and-transfer
Please be sure to select the reason for your transfer as
"residing on non-taxable trust lands within a 50 mile
radius of Albuquerque" so as to ensure your transfer
request receives priority.
-Phil Farson
Senior Director
APS Indian Education Department
505.884.6392 ext 80039
The New Beginnings, LLC
“Enhancing Quality of Life”
We are looking for someone to assist in the community
integration to help people to enhance their personal,
social, and vocational experience successfully in the
community. Focusing in but not limited to broaden
possibilities in the community and general population
activities. Individual support is based on the identified
needs and desires of the person served. Individuals
are active partners in determining the activities they
desire to participate in and identifying their most
meaningful experiences.
Job Qualifications:
-
Must be 18 years of age
-
Ability to read and carry out the requirements
of the job
-
Ability to communicate in the language that
is functionally required by the individual
-
Must complete all state required competencies
-
Must have a valid driver’s license and insurance
-
Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
If interested in applying, please contact:
Christian Satterfield
Service Coordinator @ TNB
8908 Washington St. NE
Albuquerque, NM 87113
(505) 363-6421
Page 13
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 14
Welcome Our New Teacher
Mr. Donald Casuse
March 2024
Isleta Elementary School Newsletter
March 2024
•
Provide input and feedback on school
goals and plans for improvement.
Requirements:
•
Must commit to meet at least once per
month. As a School Board Member, you
will be compensated for your time.
•
Must have a favorable background
clearance prior to starting the term.
If you are interested, submit a letter of interest
to the school. Please include your full name,
phone number, and email address.
The Season of Assessments
Greetings Isleta families and friends! We were
happy to introduce our new 6th grade teacher
to Isleta Elementary. Mr. Casuse has close to
20 years experience in the classroom.
He has taught in settings from third grade all
the way to eighth grade. He is highly qualified
to teach math, and in fact, he has a track
record of bringing up highest test scores.
He has taught in Gallup, NM as well as Las
Cruces, NM.
In his free time, he likes to work on classic
cars, try new trails to go hiking, travel to
different places, camp in the mountains, do
river fishing, and try new foods.
“I really love working with students to help
them better their math and reading skills along
with their social skills to make them better
members of society. I believe that every child
and teen have something positive to bring into
the world. I am grateful to be working at Isleta
Elementary. I look forward to working with the
staff, parents, community and especially the
students.”
Your Voice Matters!
Join the School Board
We are seeking interested members of our
community to serve on the IES School Board
for the upcoming school year.
Immediate Priorities:
•
Review School Board by-laws.
•
Review Student-Parent Handbook for
next year.
What type of standardized test does my
child take?
●
ACCESS
Students
in
English
language learner (ELL) program take the
ACCESS for ELLs language proficiency
test in February. The test measures
academic English language proficiency for
students learning English in our school and
throughout our state.
●
BIE ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
(ELA) & BIE MATH All students in grades
3-6 take the BIE ELA and BIE Math tests
during the Spring. These computer-based
tests measure academic proficiency in
English language arts and mathematics.
●
BIE SCIENCE This computer-based
test is only administered to students in
grades 5 during the Spring and measures
academic proficiency in science.
●
BIE ALTERNATE ASSESSMENT
This assessment is designed for students
with the most significant cognitive
disabilities. The decision for a student to
be administered the alternate assessment
is left to the discretion of the individualized
education program (IEP) team.
Why is it important for my child to
participate?
Teachers in our school use this information to
help them make decisions about instruction
for your child. Teachers also use these
test scores to monitor the progress your
child makes toward proficiency of the state
standards. It helps students, parents, and
teachers understand the student’s level of
performance and areas for improvement.
Here are some pictures from our Valentine Carnival.
Can I get a copy of my child’s test results?
Yes! NWEA MAP assessments reports are
available after each testing period (fall, winter,
spring). All other test reports are not available
until June 2024. We will plan to distribute
these reports at the start of the SY24-25
school year. We also maintain a copy of these
reports in your child’s records.
What can my child do to prepare?
Students can prepare by getting a good
night’s rest the night before the test day,
arrive to school on time, eat breakfast, and
do their best.
Important Dates
March 1
March 5
March 8
March 11-15
March 20
March 22
March 29
Dr. Seuss Day
Picture Day
Early Release. End of 3rd
Quarter.
No School - Spring Break.
3rd Quarter Awards
Assembly (1:30–2:30 pm)
Early Release
No School – Good Friday
VOTE NOW!
Help Us Plan for
SY 2024-2025
Calendar
Go
to
our
website at www.
isletaelementary.com
or scan the QR code
with your phone to
provide your input on
our calendar for
SY 2024 – 2025.
Our first Valentine Carnival was exciting
and special, as it was the first sponsored
activity by our newly created Parent Teacher
Organization.
President is Desirae Salvador,
VP is Connie Orozco,
Treasury is Mariah Zuni,
Secretary is Rachel Melchor
At this time, IES would like to thank the many
departments and parents that donated items
and time to run a booth in making this a
successful fun event for our students.
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 15
On Friday evening, Febrary 23 our Isleta
Elementary hosted the first inner tribal
sporing event since Pre-Covid, in the form
of a few friendly basketball games with the
Jemez Day School. Games were played
between our 3rd & 4th grade boys and girls
teams and our 5th and 6th grade boys &
girls teams. There was a total of 4 games
that evening with bleachers packed on
both sides and people standing along the
slidelines. Our cheerleading team even
had the opporotunity to showcase their school pride. This was a great turn out in support for our youth whom loved the opportunity to
showcase their hard work and skills.
We would like to thank basketball and cheerleading coaches, the Elementary staff and parents volunteers, Officer J. Abeita and Coach G.
Waquie for making this a fun filled event for our students and the community.
TRUANCY
Greetings,
We hope you had a wonderful Valentine’s Day.
The Truancy Department was excited to take part in the Valentine’s
Day carnival at the Isleta Elementary School on Valentine’s Day.
It was wonderful to see all the students have fun with their friends
enjoying a fun afternoon of music and snacks and enjoying games.
We were happy to join in on the fun making popcorn for all those in
attendance and handing out delicious cupcakes and Valentine cards
to the students. A big shout out and thank you to the Elementary
School PTO, Ms. Ceus and her staff for inviting our department to
join in on the fun! We look forward to being invited to more upcoming
events with Isleta Elementary School.
Since Truancy focuses on attendance and ensuring the school policies
are followed by our students and parents, below is information from
the Los Lunas Public Schools Handbook:
•
All students between the ages of 5 and 18 must attend
school daily.
•
What is chronic absenteeism?
o Chronic absenteeism is when a student misses 10% or more
of the school year for any reason, excused or unexcused.
•
A school approved extracurricular activity is when a student
is not in school or class as a result of participation in a schoolsponsored sanctioned event, practice, competition, or contest.
Students are permitted fifteen (15) school approved extracurricular
events per semester.
•
Verified absences are defined as follows:
o When a student is absent from school with prior knowledge
and consent of a parent with written verification to the school.
o When a student is absent with a personal illness, any medical
appointments, death in the family, or a religious commitment.
As many in the community are aware, there is a Pueblo of Isleta Law
and Order code, 30-05-06: Failure to send a child to school, which
states the following:
A. Any person who without justification or excuse, fails to send
or deliver a child under his or her care and supervision to school is
guilty of a failure to send a child to school.
B. Any person found guilty of failing to send a child to school is
guilty of a Class E Misdemeanor. Each day of school missed shall
be considered a separate offense.
The Truancy department has been sending notification letters to our
students that have multiple unexcused absences in accordance to the
Truancy Department’s Steps of Enforcement. Once parents receive
these notification letters, please contact our department so that we
can work with you to address any concerns or questions regarding
your child’s attendance to school. Keep in mind that we are here
to work together to avoid negative outcomes, as we want to see
positive results from our Isleta students attending school regularly and
pursuing their future goals.
Thank you,
Isleta Truancy Department
Page 16
Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 17
Pueblo of Isleta Veterans Association
(POIVA) - Commander Fred R. Lujan
As you drive north or south on Highway 314,
you have noticed the construction project at the
Pueblo of Isleta Veterans Association Center,
to the west end of the smaller buildings. This is
the maintenance/storage facility. This building
has been under construction for over a two
year period, but is now near completion. All
that is needed now is here and there electrical
connections. The major issue of the longevity of
construction was due to the slow availability of
construction supplies, some due to COVID. This
building will house the tractor and implements
that will be used for cultivating the four acres
at the POIVA property.
POIVA would like to increase its membership,
especially with younger Veterans, to conduct
color guard and funeral details. Annually, we
have had elections for new officers in January,
but we have postponed 2024 elections, hoping
that there will be new Veterans who will
join the POIVA and vie for one of the officer
positions. Due to the lack of new members,
the POIVA has had the same officers year
after year. Below is the list officers and duties.
The only qualification for being an officer is a
commitment to helping veterans.
Pueblo of Isleta Veterans Association
Duties of Officers
Commander - It shall be the duty of the
Commander to preside at all meetings of the
Association and to have general supervision
over the business and affairs of the Association,
and such officer shall be the Chief Executive
Officer of the Association.
Vice-Commander - The Vice-Commander
shall assume and discharge the duties of the
office of Commander in the absence or disability
of, as when called upon by the Commander.
Adjutant - The Adjutant shall have charge
of and keep a full and correct record of all
proceedings of all meetings, keep such records
under the direction of the Commander, and
handle all correspondence of the Association.
Finance Officer - The Finance Officer shall
have charge of all finances and see that they
are solely deposited in some local bank and
shall report once a month to the Association the
condition of the finances. The Finance Officer
shall sign all checks disbursing the monies.
Chaplains - The Chaplain shall be charged
with the spiritual welfare of the Association
and will offer divine but nonsectarian service
in the event of dedications, funerals, and public
functions and adhere to ceremonial rituals as
recommended from time to time.
Sergeant-at-Arms - The-Sergeant-at-Arms
shall preserve order at meetings and shall
perform other duties as may be from time to
time assigned by the Association.
General meetings are held once-a-month, on
the third Thursday of the Month at 6:00 PM.
Anyone interested, please call Ulysses at 505264-4110.
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 18
March 2024
Pueblo of Isleta Public Library
A new month is here, and spring is upon us! For many, that means a start to spring
cleaning, tax time and getting those gardens ready. Whatever it is, don’t let spring fever
keep you away from the library. Come in and check out everything we have to offer. We
are busy planning for upcoming programs and finalizing our Summer Reading Program.
News
At the beginning of the month the library
will be having a staff meeting. We take
this time to plan upcoming programs for
children, teens, adults and families for the
upcoming months.
The library will be CLOSED on Friday,
March 29th and Saturday, March 30th in
observance of Good Friday and Easter. All
library media checked out on Wednesday,
March 27th will be due on Monday, April
1st.
The Spring Break vibe is in the air! All
schools will officially be on Spring Break
during the week of March 11 – 15. During
this time the library may be busier and
louder than usual. Please remember
students will be out and about, so please
use caution when driving to the library as
students like to ride bikes, scooters and
hang out with friends.
We are excited to announce that all parttime and full-time positions have been filled.
We would like to introduce Abby Whitaker
filling our library aide full-time position.
She will be doing the Head Start story time
and focusing on the children section of the
library. Astrid Quintana and Isiah Abeita
filled our two part-time positions. They will
be focusing on the After School Program.
We are excited to once again be fully staffed!
from 12:30pm to 3pm. Learn how to create
your own character and build your fantasy
world with your team! Those that attend
both days of D&D will earn their way to
Slice and Dice to play games and grab a bite
to eat. This program is open to 8 patrons,
ages 9 and up. For more information,
please contact Astrid at Astrid.Quintana@
isletapueblo.com or call at 505.869.9808.
Library staff member Diane is in the early
stages of planning a Learning Outside
the Classroom field trip for Wednesday,
April 24th. This program is the library’s
approach to an “All Learners Day” that Los
Lunas Schools conduct one day a month
throughout the school year. The goal being
that on these particular days students
can make the most of their day and learn
outside the classroom. Previous field trips
have included the Indian Pueblo Cultural
Center and the New Mexico Museum of
Natural History & Science. If you have any
question, concerns or suggestions regarding
this program, please feel free to call the
library at 505-869-9808 and speak with a
staff member.
Summer Reading Program
Registration will be on Friday, May
10th at 7am.
Registration will be on a first come, first
serve basis. We will have one single line for
registration for youth and junior groups.
This will insure that priority is given to
those who showed up early.
Some reminders to keep in mind before
registering:
•
Only Parents/Legal Guardians of
students are allowed to sign up students
for the Summer Reading Program.
•
3-year olds MUST be potty trained.
•
We will be asking for BASIC
information on registration form along
with a list of allergies.
•
Students cannot be dually enrolled in
other Pueblo of Isleta Summer Programs
as there are limited Summer Program
slots throughout the community.
Check out a new way to read with our NEW
collection of Wonderbooks (from Playaway).
Every Wonderbook is a print book with a
ready-to-play audiobook inside. Kids can
listen out loud, or plug in headphones. It’s
simple to use. Just click the green button
to turn the audio device on, and then the
orange button to press play. Stop by the
library and check out our book display and
browse our collection located by the front
desk.
Join the Library weekly for Family Story
Time every Wednesday at 10:00am. Family
Story Time is a fun opportunity for parents,
grandparents, and caregivers to introduce
their children to reading and language. No
sign ups required, just come in! For more
information on this program, please call
library at 505-869-9808.
Upcoming
Join us to explore the world of Dungeons
and Dragons this Spring Break for a threeday program starting March 13th -15th
The Youth Summer Reading Program
group descriptions are out. We will feature
5 different themes to choose from. 5 spots
will be available for each of the programs.
Both Junior and Youth calendars will be
released in the April newsletter and will be
available to pick up at the library, and will
be posted on our social media accounts so
keep a look out for that.
This year our Juniors (3-6 year old) will
have a curriculum based on science. The
Juniors will be doing experiments and we
hope to bring in a couple of presenters. Each
day we will have story time, activities and
crafts. They will also have field trips and
fun water days. The Junior calendar is in
the process of being filled in, finalized and
hopefully ready by April.
The Youth (7-14 years old) will consist of
5 curriculum-based programs. Each library
staff member will have different theme,
mini field trips, and activities. Descriptions
and calendars coming soon!
More program announcements to come! For
up to the minute info on the library, follow
us on our Social Media accounts where we
will be promoting upcoming programs and
events.
Recap
On Thursday, February 8th, library staff
member Cheyenne hosted a Chinese New
Year Program, year of the Dragon. It was
a fun filled evening. Participants learned
how to make paper lanterns and received
red paper envelopes that are given during
the Chinese New Year to bring good luck
into the new year. We would like to thank
everyone who participated, and Cheyenne
for putting together an awesome program.
Our After School Program is going strong
and the kids are getting excited for warmer
weather which means outdoor activities
including students utilizing our new outside
learning center. Library staff have been
busy planning daily crafts and activities.
We hope that we can plan an incentive field
trip for March. Currently the activity van
is in the shop, so for right now we are down
our van until it gets fixed. We would like to
acknowledge and thank the Department of
Education for allowing us to use one of their
activity vans for the time being.
Students have also been liking the library’s
new Wonder books and more books are
coming soon! We would like to thank all the
students for doing a wonderful job coming
in and completing their homework and
reading. We hope everyone enjoys their
spring break and comes back refreshed and
ready to finish off the school year.
The Learning Outside the Classroom
field trip to the New Mexico Museum of
Natural History!
March 2024
Chinese New Year program participants
making a paper lantern for the Year of
the Dragon!
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 19
Page 20
Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT
The warm weather is upon us finally! I
think we’ve all been waiting for it to get
here, but you know how we are, we’re never
satisfied, in a few months we will all be
complaining that it’s too hot and that we
can’t wait until the cool weather gets here
again. Maybe I should just speak for myself
as far as the weather goes lol!
March is upon us, spring is here! Plants are
starting to bloom, grass is turning green,
the leaves on the trees are starting to come
back, overall, it’s a great time of the year.
It’s no different for us as a department, we
are also getting things popping here as well.
Our Recreation Section is preparing our
Spring Break Recreation Program, which
takes place March 11th through March
15th, and they are also prepping for the
summer program as well. Please see the
flyers for more information about both of
these programs.
Our Fitness Section is hopping as well.
They have been busy with clients and the
numbers continue to grow which is always
good.
The Sports Section is also doing well, they
just finished up the Volleyball League and
they are getting ready for more activities,
so keep your eyes peeled. The sports
section is also putting together a couple of
youth basketball teams to compete in the
Bernalillo County Basketball League this
summer. For more information on this
contact Coach George Waquie at (505) 8699777.
The Aquatics Section is also hard at work
making sure that we are ready for the
swimmers that come to use our Aquatics
Center.
We are still having a hard
time recruiting Lifeguards, so if you are
interested in becoming a Lifeguard or know
someone that is, please contact Josh Roybal
at (505) 869-9777.
Not to be outdone, our Parks Maintenance
Section is out and about busting their
proverbial behinds to make sure all our
parks and grounds are looking beautiful for
all the tribal members as well.
REMINDER – The Recreation Center
is now open on Saturdays from 8am to
12 noon. This means that our fitness
area is open, our gymnasium is open,
and our Aquatics center is also open
for drop ins. Come by on Saturday and
enjoy the community center amenities.
FITNESS SECTION
We are 3 months into 2024 and it is going
quick. It seems that you all are enjoying
our monthly challenges. We wish everyone
could win but it is the luck of the draw. It
does tend to make things exciting. Will
I win, am I achieving my goals while
competing, have I deserved this prize?
These are all great questions but those are
not the only questions. The big question is,
what’s next for the March challenge? What
is the next give away? We have decided
to focus on our weekend attendance. So
come in every Saturday from 8 am to 12
pm in the month of March and be entered
to win a very useful prize, a Massage Gun.
Participants must come in every Saturday
for the Month of March, that is a total of
5 Saturdays. What better give away while
benefitting your health and wellness. Ask
the fitness staff for more details or call the
recreation center directly at 505-869-9777.
Good luck.
RECREATION SECTION
Spring Break Recreation Program for the
youth will take place at the center this
month. The program is almost full, please
contact LeeAnne Zuni at (505) 869-9777 for
more information and to see if we still have
space available.
SPORTS SECTION
As mentioned earlier, the Volleyball League
finished up last month and it was another
very competitive season, and boy was it
fun to watch this year. Teams are getting
better and playing harder. We are looking
forward to providing more fun Leagues
and activities for tribal members, so keep
checking with us to see what we have up
our sleeves next. We are preparing for
our Annual Bernie Run again and it is
tentatively set to take place in April. This
is a great event for the whole family, once
again information concerning this event/
run will be posted very soon. We are also
putting together two youth basketball
teams to compete in the Summer Bernalillo
County Basketball League. I believe we
currently have 14 kids signed up and we
would like to have 20, 10 for each team, so if
you want more information concerning this
or any other sports related activities, please
contact Coach George Waquie at (505) 8699777.
The Summer Recreation Assistant Positions
have been posted on the POI website, so if
you or anyone you know are 16 years old or
older and you are interested in working with
the youth this summer at the Recreation
Center, please go online and apply for one of
our Recreation Assistant positions. These
jobs are very rewarding, come join us and
make a difference in someone’s life.
We will also be having our Annual Easter
Egg Hunt this month and our tentative date
for this event will be Saturday, March 30,
2024. We will be posting more information
about this event very soon, so please keep
your eyes out for the information.
One last thing, just a friendly reminder that
we are now open on Saturdays from 8am
to 12 noon at the Recreation Center (New
Rec), so please come by and take advantage
of our Saturday hours, we would love to see
you here.
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 21
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Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 23
DID YOU KNOW?
There are no substitutes for blood, platelets or
plasma—they cannot be manufactured. Patients
in need of blood or blood products must rely on
donations from people like you. Those who are
hesitant about donating blood for the first time
often find that the donation process is easy and
that saving lives is deeply gratifying.
One donation can save multiple lives. Here are
the facts:
•
Just one donation can save up to 3
lives.
•
The average red blood cell transfusion
is 3 pints (or three whole-blood
donations).
•
More than 1 million people every year
are diagnosed with cancer for the
first time. Many of them will
need blood— sometimes daily—
during chemotherapy.
•
More than 38,000 blood donations
are needed every day.
•
Type O-negative whole blood can be
transfused to people with any blood
type, but this type of blood is rare, and
supplies of it are low.
•
Type AB plasma can be transfused to
patients with all other blood types, but
it is also in short supply.
•
While 38% of the American population is
eligible to give blood, only 2% actually
donates.
Page 24
Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
WIC
Diabetes Awareness
THERE ARE 2 TYPES OF DIABETES
Type 1- known as juvenile or insulin dependent
diabetes. The exact cause is unknown
but the body’s immune system attacks the
insulin producing cells in the pancreas which
are needed to process glucose in our body.
Insulin is required to treat this type.
Type 2- cells in the muscle, liver and fat
become resistant to insulin which is needed
to transport sugars into cells of the body, this
causes a raise in blood sugar levels. There
are four stages to this type. They are insulin
resistance, pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes and
type 2 diabetes with vascular complications.
The condition develops over time and most
people with diabetes have this type. Factors
such as weight and genes are contributing
factors.
SYMPTOMS
The symptoms include: being overly thirsty
and using the restroom frequently; blurry
vision; tingling in the hands and feet; wounds
that are slow to heal; and, weight loss without
trying.
WHAT YOU CAN DO
Diabetes can be managed through diet
and drugs such as Insulin and Metformin.
A care team needs to be established with
a primary care doctor, endocrinologist and
dietitian. Lifestyle changes such as weight
loss, healthy eating and exercise benefit an
individual and manage symptoms.
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 25
Isleta Health Center Purchase Referred Care Department
Patient Education: Understanding the
Referral Process
Welcome to the Isleta Health Center
(IHC) Purchase Referred Care (PRC)
Department.
Your health and well-being are our top
priorities. To ensure you receive the
specialized treatment and diagnostics you
need, it’s important to understand the
referral process from start to finish. Here
is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate
through it.
Step 1: Generating Referrals
Referrals are initiated by IHC providers
when specialized treatment or diagnostics
are needed. This is the first step in accessing
the care you require outside of our primary
services. Referrals can also be generated
by an outside provider, but keep in mind,
you are responsible for calling PRC with
the appointment day, time, facility and
reasoning.
Step 2: Insurance Information
It is crucial that IHC has your current
insurance information on file. IHC is your
payor of last resort, requiring you to use
your primary insurance first or provide a
denial letter from CMS if you do not qualify
for Medicaid.
•
Sign Up for Insurance: You can sign
up onsite or through www.yes.state.
nm.us.
•
Onsite Benefits Coordinator: Make
an appointment with our onsite Benefits
Coordinator for assistance at (505)8694469
The premise that Indians are guaranteed
health care from our treaties as long as
the water flows and the grass grows
is, unfortunately not that simple. Indians
ARE required to apply for alternate
resources per 42 CFR 136.61 – Payor of
Last Resort. While some treaties mention
health care, the Indian Health Service is
not an entitlement program, and therefore
funding for PRC is not guaranteed by
the Federal government. AR allows PRC
funds to be conserved, thereby providing
health care for more Indian beneficiaries.
The Isleta Health Center receives its PRC
funding from Indian Health Service, and
must comply with the mutually agreed-to
agreement which includes 42 CFR 136.61.
Step 3: Referral Generation
Once your insurance details are in order,
the PRC will generate a referral for
the specialized care you need. It is also
important to make sure your address
and phone number are up to date at
Patient Registration. This helps PRC in
scheduling appointments/and or facilities
contacting you with important appointment
information.
Step 4: Scheduling Appointments
If you have questions regarding the
scheduling of your appointment, contact the
PRC. Please note that you may be required
to schedule your own appointment at the
hospital or clinic. You can obtain a hardcopy
of your referral onsite by request. Please
keep in mind that you are required to call
PRC of all scheduled appointments,
including follow-ups, procedures, tele-med
and in-person visits
Step 5: Attending Your Appointment
When attending your appointment:
•
Provide your insurance information.
•
Indicate that IHC is the payor of
last resort.
•
Let provider know you have a
referral (either by fax or picked up by
patient)
Step 6: Handling Bills
Should you receive any bills:
•
Bring them to IHC immediately. Do
not wait until they go into collections, as
processing payments requires time.
Emergency Care:
If you attend emergency care, inform
the PRC of your visit within 72 hours.
Leaving voicemails is acceptable, please
provide:
•
Name
•
Date of Birth
•
The date you were seen at the facility
•
Name of Facility you were seen at
•
Reason for the visit
•
Transportation
method
(self/
ambulance ie: Isleta/AMR/Albuqueque)
•
Any follow up appointments
It is essential to inform the hospital of both
your primary insurance and IHC as your
last payer. Failure to inform IHC of your
emergency or urgent care visit means we
cannot search for your claims for payment.
PRC Referral Coverage: Please remember,
PRC referral coverage is not an entitlement.
It is funding allocated for referred care
or emergencies. Compliance with federal
rules regarding the payment of claims and
bills is mandatory to remain in compliance.
The only way to ensure compliance is for
patients to follow the required pathways
for payment.
Contact Us: for any questions or assistance,
please reach out to the PRC department.
We are here to help you through every step
of your healthcare journey. (505)869-4488
Empowering
Patients
Education and Support.
Through
TO THE FAMILY OF MICHAEL ALLEN LENTE
From the entire staff of the Isleta Health Center, we
extend our deepest condolences during this most
difficult time at the passing of Michael Allen.
Michael Allen played an integral role in advocating
for and supporting the Health Center in its mission to
provide quality healthcare to our community.
During his years of service to our community, Michael
Allen demonstrated unwavering dedication to the
well-being of our tribal members.
Whether it was through his advocacy, his involvement
in politics, or his support of our healthcare initiatives,
his contributions have left a lasting impact on our
community.
Together we remember Michael Allen, and the
positive changes he brought to our community, as
well as his untiring support to the Isleta Health Center.
His legacy of service will be remembered and
cherished by us all.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of
Michael Allen.
May the memories of Michael Allen help you find
peace and comfort.
Page 26
Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
Are you worried a loved one might be at risk for
suicide? Don’t hesitate to call 988, a 24/7 Suicide
and Crisis Lifeline. You can call if there’s a mental
health crisis, if you’re worried about someone else,
if you need help navigating a difficult situation,
or just had a bad day. If there is an urgent crisis,
it’s always still ok to call 911.
There is no way to know if a loved one will
follow through with threats of suicide, and we
should always take threats seriously. If you are
hearing of suicidal thoughts or seeing concerning
behaviors, these may be calls for help.
Warning signs might include unsafe behaviors,
saying things like “I wish I wasn’t here anymore,”
or someone not acting like themselves. If you see
any concerning behaviors, you should approach
them and offer support. You can also always
help your loved one stay safe by removing lethal
weapons and associated items (gun, ammunition,
knives, medications, rope, etc.) from the home
and making sure these items are locked away.
There are other suicidal warning signs like
leaving a note, giving away personal items,
risky behaviors with substances, isolation and
withdrawal, mental health distress, or struggling
to cope with a difficult situation. People ages 1034 are at higher risk of suicide (CDC, Facts about
Suicide, 2022).
You can also encourage your loved one to seek
counseling treatment services at Isleta Health
Center B’eeh-K’oo-ee Wellness Center (BKWC)
505-869-5475. A counselor can help them explore
strategies for managing crisis situations and
develop coping skills. It may take time for your
loved one to develop these skills and see a change
in behavior and mood. For some, behaviors
that can help mood might include listening to
music, dancing, journaling, getting routine sleep,
eating well, praying, and engaging in traditional
spirituality. Scheduling regular family time can
also improve communication around emotions
and create a greater sense of safety and support.
For many of us, it can be difficult to talk about
suicide and suicidal thoughts with people we care
about. But if you talk about it, you could help
them get the care they need.
Isleta Pueblo News
Editor:
Nathaniel Lujan
Asst. Editor:
Diane Abeita
Published By:
Valencia Express
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 27
WELLBRIETY: A Sober Life that is balanced
Emotionally, Mentally, Physically and
Spiritually. The Wellbriety Movement is
designed to offer a sustainable Culturally
Based Healing. Traditional Teachings tell
us that Wellness is a state of being in which
the person is in Harmony with Natural Law,
Principles and Values, which were given by
the Creator.
A Wellbriety Group is comprised of Individuals
who share similar experiences and make
an agreement to meet on a regular basis.
The meetings are not about “fixing” other
people. They are about creating new thought
patterns, new attitudes and new feelings
about themselves. For those working in the
Circle of Healing, they create strong social
and emotional bonds that help the individuals
to develop trust, autonomy and other healthy
feelings and thought patterns. These then lead
to Emotional, Mental, Physical and Spiritual
growth and balance. Much is shared in the
Healing Circle. We are here to get well.
We use Medicine Wheel & 12 Steps Teaching
Videos, Talking Circles and Mind Mapping to
work through and heal those things that often
lead us to alcohol and/or drug use, abuse,
or dependence. All permanent and lasting
change starts on the inside first then works its
way outward. Having the group sit in a circle
and take the time to connect with each other
forms one great mind that creates solutions
and ideas that will be far more useful than the
results of only one person thinking alone. We
must create a Healing Forest to benefit our
community toward a better future.
Are you ready for change? Come and Join
Us!! All you need to do to get started with
Wellbriety is show up! When you join, the
group facilitators will guide you on next
steps. We will ask that all group participants
complete an assessment so our facilitators can
offer additional support after a group session,
if needed.
WELLBRIETY MEETINGS
MEDICINE WHEEL & 12 STEPS
TUESDAYS, 4:00pm-6:00pm
B’EEH K’OO-EE WELLNESS
“THE GOOD ROAD”
CONFERENCE ROOM
(SOUTHWEST CORNER OF BUILDINGFOLLOW THE RAMP)
Pueblo of Isleta Health Center
1 Sagebrush St, Albuquerque, NM 87105
505-869-5475
Page 28
Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
Shei Puyu ~ Nathan Carpio (1984-2024)
Shei Puyu,
You had this beam of light because
of your big kind heart. You gave of
yourself humbly and unselfishly to
your family, community, and clients at
work, and for that, I know your spirit
will continue to shine. I was blessed to
have you as my son...
Journey on my son in Peace.
Go my son, go and climb the ladder
where all the Spirits sing and dance...
Signing off with my heartfelt Prayers,
Gratitude & Respect for you (& sadness
for now),
until we meet again.
We will miss you, and we will hold
onto all the beautiful memories in our
hearts.
I will always love you Lawa,
Mom
**********************
To our family, friends & POI community: "Kher-kem & Ha-woo from
the bottom of our hearts for all your support, prayers, kind words,
sympathy cards, contributions, and help. May our Creator bless ALL
of you in return.”
Caroline & Family
March 10th
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Purchased Referred Care
Did you know?
Did you know Isleta Health Center is
your payor of last resort?
Payor of last resort means if you have primary
insurance, Isleta Health Center would be your
secondary insurance. If you have a primary and
secondary insurance, Isleta Health Center would
be your Tertiary insurance. Please list Isleta Health
Center as your last payor.
Did you know you have to call PRC to inform them
of all appointments?
This includes all ER/urgent care visits, any follows
ups, any secondary referrals, telemed appointments,
rescheduled appointments. Not calling in for
appointments will delay payment
Did you know if you receive a bill from a provider,
you have to bring it in to PRC, even if you have a
referral?
Some facilities will send a bill to the patient but not
Isleta Health Center. It is best to bring all bills in
received by mail to make sure PRC contacts the
facility to bill Isleta.
Page 29
Page 30
Isleta Pueblo News
ISLETA SOCIAL SERVICES
INFORMATION ON TRAUMA
BONDS
Trauma bonds are created during abuse and they
create powerful emotions that are difficult to change.
A family going through trauma may feel very close
knit because of what they have endured as a family
unit, even when one member is causing the pain.
Trauma bonds can be caused by being in an
unhealthy relationship with an unhealed person.
Trauma bonds help your partner feel in control. This
is because there might have been past traumatic
experiences that left a feeling of being broken or
incomplete. Some examples are:
•
Past physical abuse
•
Past sexual abuse
•
A particularly stressful event
•
Alcohol or drug addiction without substance
abuse treatment
•
A family member that never showed them
healthy relationships
Toxic relationships may be the only love they’ve
known. It becomes like a drug addiction when their
brain chemistry releasing feel-good chemicals every
time they take control.
There are 7 stages of Trauma Bonding:
1. Love Bombing2. Trust and Dependency
3. Criticism and Doubt
4. Control and Domination
5. Tolerance of Abuse
6. Withdraw and Obsession
7. Trauma Bond
*Children and Youth may NOT seek help.*
Trauma bonds can be a barrier for victims or survivors
to report violence and seek services. Survivors
may feel fear, shame, self-blame, protective of the
offender, loyalty or admiration towards the offender,
and love towards the offender.
These negative bonds impact relationships inside
and outside of the family and can lead to intense
loyalty to an abuser, repeated abusive relationships,
and the cycle of violence can continue beginning
with teen dating violence.
You might struggle to reconcile the abuser’s harmful
behavior with the affection they sometimes show.
This confusion and self-doubt are part of the trauma
bond. Instead-their control can keep you in a trapped
in an abusive relationship.
But—with the proper support and guidance, you
can break free from the painful and confusing
cycle of abuse. Freedom from an abusive partner
involves recognizing the abuse and understanding
the dynamics of trauma bonding. But it also means
seeking professional help.
It is certainly a challenging journey, but it’s
important to remember that you are not alone
and help is available. You have the strength and
resilience to overcome this. Remember you deserve
a life free from abuse.
If you feel that you would like to speak to someone,
please contact the Domestic Violence Resource
Center (DVRC) at 505-248-3165 Monday through
Sunday, 7AM to 3AM.
www.icariusbehavioralhealth.com
https://dvrcnm.org
This project was supported by Grant No. 2020-TWAX-0035 awarded by the Office on Violence Against
Women, U. S. Department of Justice. The opinions,
findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed
in this program are those of the author(s) and do not
necessarily reflect the views of the Department of Justice,
Office on Violence Against Women.
NM Poison Control
We should be cleaning and
disinfecting more often.
It is
important that you do not inject or
ingest these chemicals into your
body. Please remember to keep ALL
chemicals out of children’s reach. If
any cleaning or disinfectant solution
is swallowed or injected, please
contact the NM Poison Control
immediately.
1-800-222-1222
March 2024
March 2024
Isleta Pueblo News
Page 31
Attention Expecting Mothers,
Please call Isleta Health Center to schedule your
newborn’s establishing appointment at (505)869-4089
following birth.
We kindly ask arrival of at least one hour early prior
to your newborn scheduled appointment. This allows
parents/guardians to fill out the newborn application
and give patient registration the needed documents, to
make copies and ensures your newborn to be seen at
the appointment time. Needed documents are following:
Proof of Birth
Discharge Forms
Insurance Cards
Mothers valid Drivers license/valid government issued
photo ID
Mothers Valid Tribal ID
Fathers valid Drivers License/valid government issued
photo ID
Fathers Valid Tribal ID
Unwed parents, provide a notarized Declaration of
Paternity
*New Born applications will be accepted within 60 days
from birth.
If you cannot come an hour early, newborn application
pickup is recommended. Please call Isleta Health Center
patient registration with any questions (505)869-3200.
Sincerely, Cassandra Jaramillo
Director of Administrative Services
Page 32
Isleta Pueblo News
March 2024
This is a copy of a public record, reproduced as it was published. It is not legal advice, and it may not be the version a court would rely on. Check the official source before you cite it.