In his role as a Math Content Specialist for Las Cruces Public Schools, Christopher Nuñez supports teachers and students across the district by strengthening mathematics instruction and fostering student success. He collaborates with educators to design engaging, research-based lessons; provides professional development on best practices in math instruction; and assists teachers in using data to drive instruction and improve student outcomes. Nuñez also works directly with classrooms to model effective strategies, support intervention, and ensure that all students—including English learners—are provided with equitable opportunities to thrive in mathematics.
Prior to stepping into this role, Nuñez spent 16 years teaching in the classroom, where he was known for building strong problem-solving skills through hands-on, real-world learning. His fourth graders at Sonoma Elementary used measuring tapes and cubic tiles to design gardens and pools during lessons on area and perimeter. When Sonoma adopted its 1:1 technology initiative, Nuñez led the school’s efforts to demonstrate effective technology integration, guiding students as they used iMovie to create curriculum-linked projects in social studies, science, and literature. He consistently incorporated student voice, with children leading class discussions, demonstrating their strategies, and assessing their own understanding through exit tickets and reflection activities.
Nuñez also enriched students’ learning outside of regular hours, leading after-school programs such as Reader’s Theater and Sonoma’s broadcast channel, where students interviewed staff and produced human-interest stories. Under his leadership, students made exceptional growth, moving from 70% to 100% proficiency on the iReady Math assessment and achieving 92% proficiency on the Star Reading test.
As a member of Sonoma’s leadership team, Nuñez spearheaded initiatives to build community and strengthen collaboration, including the school’s innovative “house system” that promoted kindness, vision, and teamwork across grade levels. He also guided the adoption of new curricula, supported colleagues through professional learning in math and technology, and worked alongside new staff to navigate instructional and classroom challenges. His commitment to professional growth led him to participate in Harvard University’s Partnership for Enhancing Mathematics, where he refined his practice through lesson analysis and coaching.
Nuñez is also deeply attuned to students’ social-emotional needs, helping to implement restorative practices and creating a culture of respect and trust. A third-generation educator, he continues a family tradition of service to public education, following in the footsteps of his father and grandfather.
In his new position as a Math Content Specialist, Nuñez brings this wealth of classroom experience and passion for student success to a broader stage—empowering teachers, supporting students, and shaping the future of math education across Las Cruces Public Schools.
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