Kristen Martines

Hello Barranca Mesa Families,

I’m excited to begin my second year as principal with our amazing Bobcat Family! It’s a privilege to work alongside such dedicated students, staff, and families. I look forward to deepening relationships and learning more about our school community. In the coming days, I’m eager to connect with you, continue to learn more about Barranca, and collaborate to foster a supportive and inspiring environment for all of our students.

I’m proud to be a former LAMS Hawk and LAHS Hilltopper. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education with an endorsement in reading from New Mexico State University, followed by a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from New Mexico Highlands University. I later went on to obtain my administrative license. Over the past 21 years, it has been a true privilege to serve as an educator in Los Alamos Public Schools. I began my teaching career at Aspen Elementary, where I spent four years before transferring to Piñon Elementary— as my oldest son started kindergarten. Piñon was my home for 16 years and I am now proud to call Barranca home. I am deeply passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of our students and watching them grow and thrive as learners. 

My husband, Jason, and I have three kids. Our oldest son, Jaxson is finishing his last year of graduate school at Texas Tech. This past May we celebrated our middle son, Maddox, graduating from Los Alamos High School and is now off to college. Our youngest daughter, Nixyn, will start 6th grade at Piñon this coming fall. I stay busy cheering on my kids at their sports and activities. Making sure to cherish all of their life moments because they grow up so fast.

Your input, ideas, and involvement are truly valued as we work together to make our school the best it can be. I’m looking forward to all the great things we’ll accomplish as a team. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out by email or phone at any time.

Thank you for all of your support during the school year --- we couldn't do it without you. Your collaboration and dedication to your students' education makes a huge difference. I’m excited to welcome and see all of our students, staff, and families soon!

Happy Back to School!

Kristen Martines

Principal, Barranca Mesa Elementary