Educator returns to New Mexico to lead school that launched her career

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. New Mexicans often talk about "brain drain" – when the best and brightest minds leave the state for other opportunities.

However, Heather Mock is someone who has decided to come home. She started working at Sandia Prep 26 years ago, teaching social studies, English and drama. She even coached the volleyball team.

"Really getting to know these kids in vastly different ways, and that is something that really stayed with me as I went to be a teacher and administrator in other places," Mock said.

Mock has since served in teaching and leadership roles at three schools in Colorado, but now she’s heading back to Sandia Prep where she was chosen as the next Head of School.

"When I came back for my interview, I ran into a parent who had been one of my students, and that was really powerful for me because a lot of times as a teacher you don’t get to see the effect that you had on kids," Mock said.

For Mock, it’s a full-circle return – leading the school that helped launch her career.