Outgoing LAPS School Board members Ellen Specter and Ryan Adams wereecognized for their service to the district at the December School Board meeting.Outgoing LAPS School Board members Ellen Specter and Ryan Adams were recognized for their service to the district at the December School Board meeting. Photo Courtesy LAPS
LAPS NEWS RELEASE
The LAPS School Board will kick off the first meeting of 2026 with the installation of two new school board members. Margie Serrato and Antonio Jaurigue were elected last November to represent District 1 and District 2, respectively. Their term will run through 2030.
Serrato is replacing Ellen Specter, who has served on the School Board since 2017. Throughout her years of service, she contributed to numerous district and community initiatives, including
the LAPS Foundation, Policy Review Committee, Bond/HB33 Committee, Elementary School Attendance Zone, and White Rock construction planning. She has also served on the LAPS School Bond and Budget Committees, the GATE Advisory Committee, the NMSBA Excellence in Student Achievement Award Committee, and the Community Health Council.
“Her leadership reflects her dedication to fiscal responsibility, transparency, and building a safe, inclusive learning environment for every student,” noted Superintendent Jennifer Guy. “She has been a great asset to the district and we are truly grateful for her years of service to our staff, students and the community.”
Jaurigue is returning to serve on the School Board after an 18-month hiatus. Ryan Adams was selected to complete the term for District 2. He explained that he has children attending school in the district, and “wanted to contribute whatever I could to LAPS.”
He has a strong background in accounting, auditing, and compliance, including experience with two Big 4 accounting firms, Los Alamos National Laboratory, and a multinational nonprofit organization. “His knowledge of process improvement and financial oversight has strengthened the Board’s capacity to ensure transparency and accountability in district operations,” noted Superintendent Guy.
“I’ve gained a greater appreciation of how hard our teachers work to help our kids succeed,”
Adams commented, reflecting on his time on the School Board. “I’ve also really enjoyed building friendships and working alongside the excellent school board members and LAPS staff.”
The next School Board meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 13 starting at 5:30 pm in the
School Boardroom.