Los Lunas Schools Superintendent Dr. Arsenio Romero will begin his new role as secretary of the Public Education Department on March 6.

New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham made the appointment recently, citing Romero’s experience and vision for the state's educational future.

“Dr. Romero has been a key education policy partner since the beginning of my administration,” Lujan Grisham said in a statement, quoted by KOB 4. “With his broad range of experience as a teacher, a principal, and superintendent in districts across the state, I have full confidence that he will continue to build innovation and access for New Mexico students. Dr. Romero has the vision and expertise to implement the changes our public education system needs.”

Born and raised in Belen, Romero was encouraged by his mother, a first-grade teacher, to pursue a career in education; the KOB 4 report said.

Romero earned his Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education at New Mexico State University (NMSU), a Master's in Educational Leadership from the University of New Mexico, and a Doctorate in Educational Management and Development at NMSU; according to his Linkedin page. Additionally, he is a regent for NMSU and was also named to the Governor of New Mexico’s Central Racial Equity Committee.

“I am incredibly honored to be entrusted by Gov. Lujan Grisham and the people of our state with leading the New Mexico Public Education Department,” Romero told KOB 4. “I have deep roots here and understand the importance of an education that reflects the culture and values of New Mexicans. As a long-time educator and administrator, I am also keenly aware of the work that still needs to be done to make sure that every New Mexico student receives the education they deserve.”