The New Mexico Public Education Department, in partnership with the New Mexico Gas and Oil Association, selected Roy Biñas Basa as the 2024 New Mexico Teacher of the Year. This announcement, made December 21, 2023, celebrates Basa's significant contributions to the field of education and his role as a leading figure promoting excellence and innovation in his classroom.
I hold a Ph.D. She holds a Master's degree in Education Management from the University of Negros Occidental-Recoletos, Philippines. Basa's academic journey is marked by excellence and passion for life-long learning. His extensive credentials include Teaching English as a Second Language (TESOL) certification, International Teaching License, and numerous accolades indicating his impact on local and international education.
Who is Dr. Vasa?
Basa is an educator at Twin Buttes Cyber Academy in Zuni Pueblo. The school offers courses that combine online learning, face-to-face instruction, and professional learning to provide an alternative path to graduation.
Basa is recognized for its outstanding teaching methodology that emphasizes hands-on scientific inquiry and engineering innovation. Under his guidance, his students have achieved notable success in various competitions, including the 2022 New Mexico Governor's STEM Challenge and the International HOSA International Research Competition.
Basa's educational philosophy was deeply influenced by his personal journey, marked by financial hardship and a determined pursuit of education. He advocates equitable access to quality education, integration of social and emotional learning (SEL), and investment in teachers’ professional growth.
“Education is one of the most powerful tools to raise our economic and social status,” said Dr. Basa. “Despite facing financial difficulties as a child, I persevered and worked hard to get an education. My personal experiences have shaped my perspective on education, and I am confident that educators have the power to provide students with exceptional educational opportunities that can transform their lives.”
Basa explained that his approach integrates a variety of professional disciplines, including career technical, business, and science education, to meet the needs and interests of a wide range of students.
Dr. Basa's commitment to fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth extends beyond the classroom. As a published author, he uses literature and storytelling to engage students and improve their understanding of complex scientific concepts. His international experience enriches his teaching by providing students with a broad perspective and essential intercultural communication skills.
“Integrating literature into science education can significantly improve students’ literacy skills,” Basa explained. “By using stories that inspire creativity and encourage critical thinking, we can spark a passion for innovation in our students. It is heartwarming to see educators and students from diverse backgrounds come together and exchange ideas. Through shared projects, virtual interactions, and international partnerships, students can learn a lot by interacting with peers from diverse cultures. Such experiences broaden their horizons and help them develop intercultural communication skills that are essential in today’s world.”
Looking back on his career
Reflecting on his teaching career, Basa shared memorable moments, such as leading students to design a prototype of a renewable energy source, which he explained demonstrated the transformative potential of education.
One of his main projects was guiding students through hands-on projects designing and building prototypes for renewable energy sources. “This project involved designing and building a prototype for using fatty acid methyl esters from native New Mexico plant seeds as an alternative biofuel as a renewable energy source,” he explained. “This project highlighted the depth of students’ understanding of renewable energy concepts. Demonstrated ability to think critically, solve problems creatively, and communicate effectively—skills essential for success in academia and the workplace. Overall, this teaching moment reminded me of the profound impact a dedicated educator can have on the lives of students. It’s been inspiring to see the students’ growth and success throughout the project, and it’s still a testament to the transformative potential of quality education.”
Basa's approach to this challenge was not simply academic. It was an in-depth exploration of the real-world applications of science and encouraged students to think critically about environmental sustainability, energy efficiency, and the global impact of scientific endeavors.
“This experience reinforced my belief that, as educators, we have a responsibility to prepare our students not only for academic success, but also for roles as innovators and leaders solving global challenges,” Basa explained.
Education Strengthens Independence
The 2024 New Mexico Teacher of the Year Award adds to Dr. Basa's long list of awards, including the 2023 New Mexico Academy of Science Outstanding Science Teacher Award and the 2023 Shell Urban Science Educator Development Award. His recognition as a leader in education highlights the impact of dedicated educators in shaping the future of both students and communities.
As New Mexico Teacher of the Year, Basa said she will continue to advocate for innovative education and inspire new generations of learners and educators to pursue excellence and innovation in all aspects of their educational endeavors.
“I believe in empowering individuals to become independent thinkers and lifelong learners,” Basa said. “To achieve this, I always try to provide the tools and resources necessary to explore new ideas and concepts. My ultimate goal is to promote a culture of continuous growth and development among my students, colleagues, and myself as an educator. Through dedication, collaboration, and commitment to excellence, we can create a learning community where everyone has the opportunity to grow and reach their full potential.”
candidate
There may only be one Teacher of the Year, but New Mexico has great educators across the state. The nominees for Teacher of the Year are:
- Christopher Speck, Albuquerque Public Schools
- Ray Rodriguez, Rio Rancho Public Schools
- Christine Holder, Belen Consolidated School
- Veronica Jimenez, Albuquerque Public Schools
- Drew Sedrel, Albuquerque Public Schools
- Melissa Lengstorf, Reserve Independent School District