SWREC Spotlight Newsletter- February Edition
Spotlight from our Executive Director
February: The Heart’s Superpower
February invites us to focus on the heart, not just as a symbol of love, but as a true superpower. The heart generates the body’s strongest electromagnetic field, influencing not only our physical state but also our thoughts, emotions, and the energy we bring into every interaction.
Some research reveals that the heart may be as intricate as the brain (known as the heart-brain) and may send more communication to the head-brain than the other way around.
Source: Rollin McCraty, Psychology Today, “The Heart’s Electromagnetic Field Is Your Superpower,” November 29, 2020.
When we operate from the heart, our mental state shifts. Stress gives way to clarity. Instead of being reactive, we become more intentional. A regulated, heart-centered state sends signals of calm and coherence to the brain, supporting positive thinking and emotional balance.
This inner alignment doesn’t stop with how we feel. It shapes how we act. Small, conscious choices made from the heart ripple outward to kinder conversations, more thoughtful decisions, and actions rooted in purpose rather than impulse. When the heart leads, the mind becomes an ally, and our energy becomes contagious in the best possible way.
For educators and school leaders, this matters deeply. Classrooms, hallways, and offices are energetic environments, shaped not only by policies and lesson plans, but by presence. When we lead from a regulated, heart-centered state, we model calm, compassion, and clarity for students and staff alike. A steady heart helps quiet stress, sharpen thinking, and create the conditions where learning and collaboration can thrive.
Heart-centered leadership shows up in everyday actions such as listening with intention, responding rather than reacting, and making decisions that are grounded in care and purpose. These small moments ripple outward, strengthening school culture and supporting positive outcomes for the entire community.
This February, remember your heart is more than a feeling, it’s a force. Use your superpower wisely, and let it guide your thoughts, actions, and connections.
Sincerely,
Valerie Brea
Executive Director, SWREC
Instructional Specialist Spotlight
Wins, Successes & Scheduling Updates
We are thrilled to report that our SPED Legal Review and Executive Functioning Organized Binder trainings were a massive success! These sessions provided critical tools for organization and compliance that are already being implemented across our districts. Additionally, our Leadership Academy continues to be a cornerstone for professional growth for our administrators.
Engagement in Action: View the graphic above to see educators participating in our recent professional development nonviolent crisis intervention. This hands-on opportunity allows staff to effectively share strategies and environmental awareness to prevent crisis and stop problems before they escalate.
Upcoming Trainings
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SESSION FULL
CPI - Refresher
Date: 2/17/26 | 8:00-12:30
Requirement: Previous CPI Required
Location: SWREC Training Room
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Register Now
Fractions to Ratios & Proportions
Date: 2/23/26 | 8:30-3:30
Grades: 4 - Algebra II
Presenter: School Kit
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Register Now
Early Algebraic Concepts
Date: 2/24/26 | 8:30-3:30
Grades: Kindergarten - Grade 3
Presenter: School Kit
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REGISTRATION CLOSED
Language Through Science
Date: 3/4/26 | 4:00-5:30
Presenter: NM STEM Network
Location: Virtual
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SESSION FULL
SPED Directors' Academy
Date: 3/5/26 | 12:00-3:30
Presenter: Lorie Gerkey
Location: SWREC Training Room
Board & Superintendent Spotlight
The SWREC once again hosted our member district superintendents and school board members for dinner on February 5 at the Santa Fe School of Cooking. We are grateful for the work they do on behalf of the students in the Southwestern region of New Mexico.
We all enjoyed some great food and even better conversation. Thank you to all who attended, and we look forward to doing it again next year!
