Meet the Sunset Hills Leadership Team

Catherine Diaz

Catherine Diaz

Principal

Education: 

  • Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education

  • Master's Degree of Arts in Education

  • Mater's Degree of Arts in Educational Administration

Licenses:

  • Elementary Education (K-8)

  • Administrative (Pre K-12)

Bio:
It is my privilege to be your principal at Sunset Hills Elementary. I have been in the district as a principal for the past 8 years. Prior to becoming a principal, I had many leadership experiences as an instructional coach, on the leadership team, and a fill-in assistant principal. I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education, a Master’s Degree in Education, and a Master’s Degree in Educational Administration.

I have a positive, professional leadership that brings teachers, parents, and the community together to help achieve the goals of our students. I believe in shared leadership and building strong relationships with staff, students, and the community.

I am blessed with a wonderful husband of 31 years and two beautiful daughters. They are the love and joy of my life. I have high expectations for them as I do for my students, to believe they can be anything they want to be and to never give up.

My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing learning environment where all students can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.

Vicki Horne

Vickie Horne

Assistant Principal

Education: 

  • Bachelor of Science in Professional Aeronautics & Aviation Safety 

  • Master of Arts in Physical Education & Exercise Science

  • Master of Arts in Education, Special Education

Licenses:

  • Physical Education & Health

  • Special Education

  • Administration

Bio:
Vickie Horne serves as the assistant principal at Sunset Hills Elementary, bringing with her thirteen years of experience in education. A native of Mississippi, she resides in Las Cruces with her two children. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology Education with a minor in Chemistry and a Master of Science degree in Reading Education, both from Alcorn State University in Alcorn, Mississippi. Additionally, she possesses an Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Mississippi College in Clinton, Mississippi. 

Vickie is recognized for her compassionate leadership and commitment to fostering successful growth and development for teachers and students. She is an active member of the Black Education Act Advisory Council for the State of New Mexico Public Education Department. Throughout her career, she has held various positions, including Lead Teacher, Consultant Selection Committee Member, Teacher Mentor, Leadership Team Member, and Equity Council Lead. Vickie has honed her skills as a teacher by participating in professional development and STEM programs. Among these are the Mississippi Academy of Teaching Science (Project MAST) at Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi, and Saturday STEM at Alcorn State University.