Jack McFarland, Director of College, Career, & Civic Readiness
Jack has an impressive track record in educational leadership at both the district and building levels. His visionary leadership paved the way for the development and execution of the College, Career, and Civic Readiness initiatives aligned with GMCS’s strategic ELEVATE 2025 goals. He has excelled in fostering support systems for students, from career exploration to rigorous academic pathways, and has actively collaborated regionally to champion college and career readiness. As a turnaround principal, he transformed Miyamura High School, culminating in a commendable “B+” state rating. Throughout his professional journey, Jack McFarland has consistently emphasized the development of teacher leaders, championed data-driven instruction, and engaged in national and state programs for educational advancement. His academic credentials include a master’s in educational leadership from Western New Mexico University and specialized certifications from esteemed institutions in New Mexico. A blend of strong educational, business, and leadership experiences defines his holistic approach to student success.
Kyndee Keeler, Coordinator of College, Career, & Civic Readiness
Kyndee is an accomplished educator and administrator with a rich history in the Gallup-McKinley County Schools, Kyndee Keeler holds both an MA in Educational Leadership from Western New Mexico University and a B.S.Ed. in Secondary Reading & Special Education from Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Her professional journey has seen her in roles ranging from English Teacher and Dance Coach to College, Administrator to College, Career, and Civic Readiness Coordinator. Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated a talent for curriculum development, mentoring, leadership, and promoting college and career readiness. Recognized multiple times by the New Mexico Public Education Department for her excellence in teaching, she has a proven track record of driving student success, fostering professional growth among educators, and ensuring optimal learning environments.
Arnel Dela Cruz, Coordinator of College, Career, & Civic Readiness
Arnel is a visionary leader, reflective educator, and dedicated lifelong learner. Serving as the Coordinator of College, Career, and civic Readiness for Gallup-McKinley County Schools, he has been instrumental in developing sustainable practices for the GMCS Pathways Program and enhancing technology integration in educational settings. His roles have ranged from instructional coaching and Pathway coordinator at Miyamura High School to Science department chair at East Gadsden High School, Florida. He is a certified science teacher with TESOL endorsement in multiple states. He holds three Master’s degrees: one in Educational Leadership from Western New Mexico University, another in Science Teaching from New Mexico Tech, and a third in Science Education with a major in Biology from the Philippine Normal University. Passionate about innovative teaching practices and leveraging technology for enhanced learning, he remains committed to driving student success and advancing educational best practices.
Lilverlyn Charley, Pathway Associate
Lynn is a dedicated individual with a strong aspiration to become a vital member of the Gallup community. With an impressive 15-year tenure at Gallup McKinley County Schools, Lynn has developed a deep-rooted passion for education and a commitment to guiding young adults toward a career-focused future after graduation. Lynn is on a journey to expand her knowledge and skill set by pursuing an associate degree in business administration. This educational endeavor aligns perfectly with her goal of empowering and mentoring young adults, preparing them for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in their professional lives. Lynn’s career path has been marked by diversity and an insatiable thirst for knowledge. With a team-oriented mindset, Lilverlynn Charley strongly advocates for collective efforts to achieve common goals. She is dedicated to fostering a collaborative environment in Gallup. She is determined to make a positive impact, inspire young adults, and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the community. Lynn’s journey is driven by a profound commitment to the betterment of Gallup, and she invites others to join her in working together to make a difference.
Casey Begaye, Pathway Associate
Casey Begaye, armed with an associate degree in business administration, has seamlessly navigated roles as an Inventory Warehouse Manager, Shelter Program Manager, and Area Director for a prominent non-profit. During the pandemic, Casey’s expertise in logistics became particularly evident, marked by efficient inventory systems and keen attention to detail. As a cornerstone of the College, Career, and Civic Readiness (CCCR) program, Casey’s dedication shines through in empowering high school seniors, linking them to vital internship opportunities and overseeing key aspects from interviews to workshops.
Approaching two years at GMCS, Casey’s unwavering commitment to excellence in challenging settings is commendable. Eagerly eyeing further professional growth, Casey aspires to attain a master’s degree, propelled by a relentless pursuit of knowledge and a vision to elevate internship programs and other pivotal student initiatives to new benchmarks.
Stephanie Regensberg, CCCR Secretary
Stephanie Regensberg boasts an impressive tenure of 32 years with Gallup-McKinley County Schools, exemplifying dedication and expertise throughout her longstanding career. Currently affiliated with the College, Career, and Civic Readiness Department, Stephanie is fervently committed to acquiring new skills aligning with the department’s objectives. Her professional aspirations are intrinsically tied to mastering every detail of the Pathways while continually progressing toward personal tasks and objectives.
A tech-savvy professional, Stephanie possesses profound expertise in the I-Vision system and proficiently navigates office productivity tools such as Excel and Word. Her adeptness extends to operating essential office equipment, including computers, copying machines, and 10-key calculators. With a keen eye for detail and strategic acumen, Stephanie excels in processing purchase orders (POs) and work orders, underscoring her organizational prowess and problem-solving abilities. Her coordination and strategic processing capabilities further solidify her invaluable contributions to the institution’s success.
Learn more about the GMCS-CCCR initiatives.