FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: John Dyrcz
May 27, 2026 505-554-8679


Gallup – American Federation of Teachers New Mexico President Whitney Holland and Six Directions United Educators activist Renee Cleveland released the following statements:

“Our union is firmly committed to providing a union for every public educator who desires one. We believe unions can bring stability, student-focused policy making, and better transparency to educational institutions where workers and administrators collaborate for what’s best for the communities they serve.

“Much like the mission of Six Directions Academy, we share the goal of providing a community-led and future focused education for our students and the faculty and staff who live and work alongside our families.

“I am so proud to be taking this important step with the hard-working educators at Six Directions,” said Holland.

"Being a union member will give our collective bargaining unit a voice to provide a better education for our students. Organizing together puts us in a better position to serve our students. I am excited about the possibilities this will bring for Six Directions, our community, and our students,” said Cleveland.

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The New Mexico Public Employee Labor Relations Board issued certification for this unit on May 25, 2026 with strong support. The employees will form the Six Directions United Educators; a new local union organized with the American Federation of Teachers New Mexico.