DEMING – Faculty members from Western New Mexico University’s College of Education recently immersed themselves in the unique educational environment of the U.S.-Mexico borderlands. Their visit to Deming, Columbus, and Puerto Palomas offered firsthand insights into the experiences of bilingual students and the educators who support them.
The trip was organized by Professor Alexandra Neves, Associate Dean of the College of Education, who aimed to deepen the faculty’s understanding of the students they prepare to teach. Many WNMU education majors hail from Deming, which also hosts dual enrollment programs allowing high school students to earn college credits.
A highlight of the visit was observing a Bilingual Academy class at Deming High School, taught by Guadalupe Estrada. The academy enables students to graduate high school with a WNMU minor in Spanish. Neves noted Estrada’s dedication to fostering creativity among her students and creating pathways to higher education.
At Columbus Elementary, the group learned about the unique challenges faced by the 400 students who cross the border daily from Palomas. Meeting with local educators, they discussed strategies to address the needs of these bilingual learners.
The faculty also crossed into Palomas for lunch and witnessed the end-of-day routine as students returned to Mexico. Watching children navigate border security underscored the resilience of these young learners and the critical role educators play in their success.
This immersive experience reaffirmed WNMU’s mission to prepare teachers equipped to thrive in the diverse, bilingual context of southwest New Mexico. “Seeing these challenges firsthand helps us better support our students and their future classrooms,” Neves said.
The visit left the faculty inspired and more committed than ever to fostering excellence in borderlands education.