Amanda Lukkar of James Bickley Elementary - Clovis Municipal Schools Substitute of the Year
Our 2025-2026 Clovis Municipal Schools Substitute of the Year is someone who has proven that the influence of a great educator isn't defined by a job title, but by the lives they touch.
Nominators shared that this individual is much more than someone who simply fills in for a classroom teacher. She builds genuine relationships with students, creates engaging learning environments, and ensures that learning never stops when they are in the classroom. Teachers consistently described this person as their first choice because they know their students will be challenged, supported, and cared for.
Parents praised this substitute's kindness, patience, and encouragement, while others shared stories of students seeking them out beyond the classroom because of the trust and meaningful connections they had built. One nomination even credited this individual with helping a struggling reader gain both the skills and confidence needed to succeed.
Whether stepping into a classroom for a single day or supporting students over an extended period, Amanda Lukkar brings positivity, compassion, and a genuine commitment to helping every child succeed. Her unwavering dedication and extraordinary impact on students, staff, and families make her a truly deserving recipient.
Christina Dukes of Zia Elementary as the Clovis Municipal Schools Support Person of the Year.
Our 2025-2026 Clovis Municipal Schools Support Person of the Year is someone whose kindness, positivity, and dedication have made them an unforgettable presence on their campus.
Nominators described Christina as the person who starts each school day with a warm smile, greeting students each morning, assisting with traffic duty, and ensuring every child feels welcomed and safe from the moment they arrive. Parents praised her patience, compassion, and ability to make our youngest learners excited about coming to school, while teachers highlighted the strong relationships she has built with both students and families.
Beyond her work in the kindergarten classroom, this individual is known for stepping in wherever help is needed, supporting teachers during transitions, and creating a sense of belonging throughout the entire school community. Her cheerful spirit, servant's heart, and unwavering commitment to helping children succeed have left a lasting impression on students, families, and colleagues alike.
Whether welcoming students at the front door, lending a helping hand in the classroom, or simply brightening someone's day with a smile, Christina Dukes exemplifies what it means to serve with excellence. Her dedication, compassion, and positive influence make her a truly deserving recipient.
Rubeli Alvarez of Clovis High School - Clovis Municipal Schools New & Emerging Teacher of the Year.
Our 2025-2026 Clovis Municipal Schools New & Emerging Teacher of the Year is someone who has already made an extraordinary impact in a remarkably short time.
Nominators described this educator as an exceptional science teacher with a unique ability to make complex concepts engaging, understandable, and exciting for students. Despite being early in his career, he has already embraced the challenge of teaching Advanced Placement Biology and stepped into Advanced Placement Physics when his school needed him most. Students consistently shared that they are challenged to think critically while learning in a classroom where they feel supported, encouraged, and confident in their abilities.
Beyond the classroom, this individual is known for going above and beyond by providing tutoring, volunteering for student activities, supporting curriculum development, and continuing his own education while teaching full time. Colleagues describe Rubeli as a collaborative leader with an exceptional work ethic, while students know them as someone who genuinely believes in their potential and inspires them to achieve more than they thought possible.
Whether leading advanced science courses, supporting students outside the school day, or stepping up whenever his school has a need, Rubeli Alvarez exemplifies what it means to be an emerging leader in our profession. His passion for teaching, commitment to excellence, and dedication to student success make him a truly deserving recipient.
Amanda Encinias of Highland Elementary - Clovis Municipal Schools Teacher of the Year.
Our 2026 Clovis Municipal Schools Teacher of the Year is someone whose impact extends far beyond the walls of their classroom. Through exceptional teaching, compassionate leadership, and an unwavering commitment to students, this educator has made a lasting difference not only in the lives of children, but also among families, colleagues, and future teachers across our district.
Nominators described Amanda as someone who creates a nurturing, highly structured classroom where every child feels safe, valued, and excited to learn. Parents shared story after story of children who entered the classroom uncertain of themselves and left with confidence, independence, a strong academic foundation, and a genuine love of learning. They credited this educator with helping their children develop not only the academic skills they needed, but also the self-belief that will carry them far beyond elementary school.
Beyond the classroom, Amanda Encinias has spent years mentoring future educators through Eastern New Mexico University, modeling outstanding instruction, effective classroom management, and the professionalism that defines an exceptional teacher. Colleagues describe this educator as a leader who sets high expectations, inspires those around them, and invests wholeheartedly in the success of both students and fellow educators.
Whether teaching young learners, encouraging families, or helping shape the next generation of teachers, Amanda Encinias exemplifies excellence in every aspect of the profession. Her passion, leadership, and lasting influence make her a truly deserving recipient.
Congratulations to all award recipients and nominees!