Taos Municipal Schools board keeps current officers after debate over leadership and communication

The Taos Municipal Schools Board of Education voted unanimously on Jan. 23 to keep its current officers in place, after a lengthy public discussion about leadership succession, communication and how to speed up the board’s work. The special meeting opened at 4:22 p.m. and the board approved the agenda before moving into the reorganization item.

Board Member King moved to retain the existing slate — President Flores, Vice President Sprague and Secretary Trujillo — saying continuity was important after the district’s recent bond and forensic audit and praising the team’s work. “It’s been we’ve got a lot done last year,” King said, urging the board to build on its momentum.

Several board members urged continuity while also emphasizing leadership development. Secretary Susan Trujillo said she would be willing to remain as secretary and coach a successor. Vice President Sprague said she would be willing to continue as vice president for a trial period but expressed frustration that some items — including the strategic plan and day-to-day matters — have not moved forward quickly enough and asked for better communication and involvement in agenda building.

A board adviser advised the group that Open Meetings Act rules limit informal, frequent one-on-one leadership conversations (so-called rolling quorums) and recommended structured opportunities, such as retreats or agenda-based relationship-building, to improve collaboration without violating the law.

The board’s motion to retain the incumbents was seconded and called for roll — each member present voted yes and the motion carried. President Flores said the board would revisit the subject in three months to assess working relationships and whether a reorganization is appropriate.

The decision preserves the current leadership while documenting an expectation of improved communication, clearer agenda-building and a near-term reassessment of officer roles.