Pat S. Graff
Journalism/Humanities/Social Studies, 9th - 12th,
La Cueva High, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Total years as a classroom teacher: 29
EDUCATION
| Oklahoma State University | Bachelors Degree of Science | 1976 |
| University of New Mexico | Continuing Education | |
| Indiana University | Continuing Education |
TEACHING EXPERIENCE
| 1986-present | Grade 9-12, English Journalism, Humanities, Social Studies, La Cueva High, Albuquerque, New Mexico |
| 1976 - 1986 | Grade 7-8, English, Journalism, Social Studies, French, Cleveland Middle School, Albuquerque, New Mexico. |
| 1991 -present | Teaching summer journalism workshops, Indiana, Washington, Kansas, Texas, New Mexico, and Minnesota |
| 1991 - 2005 | ABQ Homework Hotline, PreK-Adult, telephone support for homework |
SPECIAL RECOGNITION
| 2004 | Governors Award for Outstanding New Mexico Woman |
| 2001 | Distinguished Service Award - National Council of Teachers of English |
| 1999 | Medal of Merit - Journalism Education Association |
| 1999 | Pioneer Award - National Scholastic Press |
| 1998 | Education Excellence Award - Association for School Curriculum Development |
| 1996 | YMCA Woman on the Move Award |
| 1995 | New Mexico Teacher of the Year |
| 1995 | National High School Journalism Teacher of the Year |
| 1993 | New Mexico Press Woman of the Year |
| 1992 | President’s Award, New Mexico Public Relations Society |
| 1991 | New Mexico Publications Adviser of the Year |
| 1991 | New Mexico English Teacher of the Year |
- Pat thinks of herself as “bridge-builder” between different organizations, groups, the media, and business. She also believes that when her professional work is relevant and effective, it comes through in her students’ work.
- Pat’s students have interviewed, in person, Spike Lee, Jesse Jackson, George H. W. Bush, and numerous state and local leaders.
“She [Pat] does not just teach well, which many teachers do; she takes it one step further and makes sure that the students are recognized. It is this recognition that gives her students the motivation to work diligently and want to please her. Recognition to a student cannot be understated.”
Mariaelana Casanova, Colleague and Parent
“It’s impressive as to how many former students return to our school and give credit to Pat for her help and expertise in putting them on their current career path. If students are truly the measure of a teacher’s success, Pat’s success is legion.”
Jim Zalewski, English Department Co-Chair, La Cueva High