The Board of Education of Reserve Independent School District is pleased to announce the selection of James Olivas as the district’s next Superintendent of Schools, effective July 1, 2026!
Mr. Olivas brings more than two decades of experience in public education, including service as a classroom teacher, instructional coach, data coordinator, district testing coordinator, operations director, and most recently Assistant Superintendent for Bloomfield School District. A decorated veteran of the United States Air Force, Mr. Olivas has dedicated his professional career to leadership, service, and the advancement of educational opportunities for students and communities across New Mexico.
Beyond his district leadership experience, Mr. Olivas has contributed extensively to educational innovation and professional development across New Mexico and the Four Corners region. His experience includes serving as a visiting instructor for the Teacher Education Outreach Program science methods course at Fort Lewis College, a BP Energy Conference training facilitator, a participant in the Department of Energy Academies Creating Teacher Scientists (ACTS) program, and a participant in the Presidential Academy in American History and Civics Education: Middle Ground Project.
Additionally, Mr. Olivas has served as a technological advisor and trainer to San Juan College and the National Science Foundation Advanced Technology Education Grant program. He was honored as a New Mexico Golden Apple Recipient in 2012 and has served on the New Mexico Public Education Department Assessment and Accountability Advisory Committee as well as the Teacher Evaluation Task Force. In 2018, he was selected as a member of the prestigious Woodrow Wilson Foundation Leadership Cohort.
Mr. Olivas prides himself on his unwavering commitment to students and the educational profession by seeking and implementing innovative practices that promote growth, achievement, and opportunity at all levels. He firmly believes that learning should extend beyond the classroom and positively impact both the learner and the broader community. His philosophy centers on the belief that authentic learning occurs when knowledge is shared, applied, and extended in ways that sustain continuous growth and innovation.
Throughout his career, Mr. Olivas has focused on improving student achievement, strengthening community partnerships, and expanding opportunities for all learners. Under his leadership, Bloomfield Schools expanded career and technical education pathways, enhanced campus security initiatives, secured millions of dollars in state grants and funding, developed comprehensive monitoring systems to track district progress, and collaborated closely with school principals to help increase graduation rates to record highs.
Mr. Olivas is widely recognized for his collaborative and servant leadership style, strategic vision, and commitment to transparent communication with students, families, staff, and community stakeholders. Colleagues and community members alike value his ability to build strong relationships, foster accountability, and create systems that support both student success and organizational excellence.
Mr. Olivas earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from University of New Mexico, a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership from New Mexico Highlands University, and a Master of Business Administration from New Mexico State University.
“I am honored and excited to serve the students, staff, families, and community of Reserve Independent School District,” said Mr. Olivas. “I look forward to listening, learning, and working together to build on the district’s strengths while creating exceptional opportunities for every student.”
Mr. Olivas and his wife, Veronica, have three children and remain deeply committed to public education, community service, and supporting the success of students throughout New Mexico.
The board and administration are looking forward to working with Mr. Olivas. We hope you'll join us in giving him a very warm welcome to our community!
