About Taos Academy
About Us – Taos Academy
A Charter School for the Future
Taos Academy is a State Charter public school serving grades 5–12 with a dynamic and innovative educational model. We provide students with a rigorous core curriculum, engaging electives, leadership and career training, college preparation, and community involvement—all within a state-of-the-art 21st-century learning environment.
Our Philosophy
We believe every learner deserves access to excellent educational opportunities, regardless of ability or location. Our hybrid learning model blends direct classroom instruction with proven digital curriculum, allowing us to personalize education for every student. With flexible scheduling, students can work in our technology labs on campus—or from anywhere with a high-speed internet connection.
Dear Taos Academy Family,
Hello! My name is Dr. Moodley, and I am honored to introduce myself as the new Head Administrator of Taos Academy. When I first came across Alan Kay’s quote,
“The best way to predict the future is to invent it,”
I immediately thought of Taos Academy. This has never been a school that simply follows the traditional path. Instead, it has always been a place that embraces innovation, encourages curiosity, and empowers students to create their own futures. That vision began with our founders, Dr. Filiss and Mrs. Moulton, whose courage and commitment to reimagining education created the incredible community we know today.
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Before looking ahead, I want to pause and recognize Dr. Filiss, who has faithfully led Taos Academy for the past 17 years. Through her visionary leadership, unwavering dedication, and deep belief in every student, she has helped shape a school where relationships, innovation, and personalized learning are more than ideals…they are part of the culture. On behalf of our community, I want to thank Dr. Filiss for her years of service and for leaving such a remarkable legacy. It is an honor to follow in her footsteps and continue the work that she and Mrs. Karen Moulton began.
While this is a new role for me, Taos Academy is not new to my heart. I’ve had the privilege of serving as an advisor, getting to know many of our students, families, and staff. I’ve seen firsthand the creativity, resilience, and passion that make this school so unique. Those experiences have only strengthened my belief that Taos Academy is a place where students don’t just learn, they discover who they are.
A little about me…I transitioned from a career in biotechnology to a career in education. I have served students as a teacher, assistant principal, and principal. My success in transforming learning communities over the course of 6 years earned me the New Mexico Principal of the Year award in 2023. No matter the title, my purpose has always been the same: to help every student feel seen, every educator feel supported, and every family feel like an important part of our school community. I believe strong relationships are the foundation of great schools, and my goal is to build those relationships with each of you.
As we begin this new school year, I hope we continue asking big questions, taking meaningful risks, celebrating creativity, and learning from one another. My promise to you is simple: I will lead with integrity, listen with intention, and always keep students at the center of every decision. My door will always be open because the best ideas come from working together as a community. Alan Kay reminds us that ” The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” Thanks to the vision of the Taos Academy founders who built a community based on innovation, relationships, and the belief that every student can thrive. Now, together, we have the opportunity to honor that legacy while inventing the next chapter of Taos Academy’s story. I can’t wait to create that future with all of you.
With excitement and gratitude,
Dr. Moodley
Head Administrator
Taos Academy
Dr. Moodley,
Executive Director
Taos Academy
Our Story
Taos Academy was founded by a team of educators with a vision to meet the needs of today’s digital generation. Drawing on more than 30 years of combined experience, they blended proven teaching practices with innovative 21st-century learning tools. The result is a flexible hybrid model that engages students, fosters independence, and prepares them to thrive as lifelong learners in a rapidly changing world.
Who we are
Taos Academy is a free, public charter school, serving grades 5–12. We provide a supportive hybrid learning environment where students thrive academically, creatively, and personally.
Vision statement
Our vision is to be a model 21st-century learning community developing strong leaders who have the academic and social skills necessary to succeed in the modern world.
Our Charter
Click here to download our Charter Summary. Visit the Governing Council page to get more information about our Charter and Policies.
Mission statement
At Taos Academy, our mission is to empower students in grades 5–12 to achieve and sustain excellence. We support academic success, leadership development, and social responsibility through innovative curriculum, leadership training, and enrichment opportunities.
By fostering self-motivation and independence, we help students grow as lifelong learners. Together with families and the community, we create a learning environment where students gain the knowledge, skills, and responsibility needed to thrive in the 21st century.
What We Offer
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Individualized Learning: Instructional advisors guide each student with consistent feedback and support.
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Highly Qualified Teachers: Licensed educators teach both onsite and online, providing tutoring, workshops, and hands-on lab experiences.
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Leadership & Career Development: Students gain skills through outdoor education, community service, and career training opportunities.
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Innovative Facilities: Media arts, science, math, and engineering labs foster creativity and discovery.
National Recognition
We are proud to share that in 2019, Taos Academy was recognized by U.S. News & World Report as one of the Top Performing Schools in the Nation.
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Ranked #20 among all schools in New Mexico
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Ranked #465 among Charter High Schools nationwide
This honor reflects our commitment to academic excellence, college preparation, and innovative learning opportunities. Our students are not only excelling on state assessments and graduation requirements but are also building the skills they need for success in higher education and beyond.
Enrollment Process
Admission to Taos Academy is through a lottery system. Accepted students complete an application and meet with an administrator or instructional advisor to create an educational and career plan. Each student also completes an academic assessment to determine course placement.