Board approves lease amendment allowing Growing Up New Mexico to continue operating at district site

The Santa Fe Public Schools Board of Education on Sept. 25 approved a second amendment to a ground lease that allows Growing Up New Mexico (formerly United Way of Santa Fe County) to continue operating on district land and to mirror terms the district uses with other nonprofit partners.

Staff explained the district owns the land for the Connie Building and Growing Up New Mexico purchased the building; the amendment preserves the lease relationship and allows the nonprofit longer‑term certainty and the ability to purchase the land under the same terms previously agreed.

The presentation noted the lease terms mirror those used with NDI, another nonprofit operating services for students; the amendment allows Growing Up New Mexico to enter into a longer agreement and to keep the nonprofit’s operations on site.

Vice President Noble recused herself from the discussion and vote because she said she works for Growing Up New Mexico. The transcript records a motion, a second and a roll call in which the chair announced “Motion carries.” The mover and seconder are not identified by full name in the motion text recorded in the meeting excerpt.

Why it matters: The amendment maintains continuity of wraparound services provided by a nonprofit partner housed on district land and preserves an option for the nonprofit to purchase the land in the future under the previously negotiated terms.

Next steps: The amendment was approved; district staff will continue to coordinate with Growing Up New Mexico on lease implementation and any subsequent administrative steps required by the agreement.