Susan Chavez: Los Lunas superintendent, loves to travel, has seen many ghosts & enjoys being an educator

Susan D. Chavez is the acting superintendent of Los Lunas Schools. Prior to becoming acting superintendent in 2024, she was an assistant superintendent for the district.

Chavez has worked for the Los Lunas Schools for 24 years. A lifelong resident of Los Lunas, she lives with her spouse, Eddie Chavez. Her family includes mother and father, Evelyn and Rudy Archuleta; and brother, Rudy.

The Los Lunas Board of Education approved Chavez’s contract and she will begin her position as superintendent on July 1.

Q: If you became invisible for the day, what would you do?

A: “I would probably find a beach somewhere and relax.”

Q: What’s the weirdest thing you believed as a kid?

A: “I am unsure if it is weird but I did have ghost experiences at the Luna Mansion. My dad was a waiter at the restaurant when I was young and we would experience a ghost encounter every so often.”

Q: What does your ideal weekend look like?

A: “My husband and I attend church and then go out to dinner. We also enjoy spending time on our back patio. I also visit my parents.”

Q: If you could only have three things on your bucket list, what would they be?

A: “Travel all 50 states, visit all the continents, and see the San Francisco Giants win the World Series in person.”

Q: Do you have a secret talent? What is it?

A: “I play the piano. I learned to play when I was a child.

Q: Have you ever seen a ghost? Where?

A: “Yes, many times. Mostly at the Luna Mansion and also at the Special Services (building) in our district.”

Q: If your dog, cat or other pet could talk, what’s the first thing it would say?

A: “When are you coming home?”

Q: If you could have a lifetime supply of anything (except money), what would it be and why?

A: “A lifetime supply of health for my family and myself.”

Q: You’re granted three wishes. What are they? (And you can’t ask for more wishes.)

A: “Health and happiness for my family. I would also wish for an endless summer.”

Q: Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

A: “I see myself serving my community. I feel very blessed to serve the community that I grew up in. My family has served our community throughout the years whether through Los Lunas Schools, the village of Los Lunas or community boards. I am glad I am able to continue this tradition.”

Q: If money didn’t matter, what job would you have?

A: “I would be an educator. I love helping students and staff.”

Q: Is there anything about you that people are surprised to learn?

A: “I enjoy watching documentaries.”

Q: If you could pick a day to relive again and again, which one would it be?

A: “Our wedding day. I married my high school sweetheart and it was the best day.”

Q: Would you rather spend a day without your phone or without speaking? Why?

A: “I would rather spend my day without my phone. I am on my phone throughout the day and this would be a nice break.”

Q: What is your biggest pet peeve? Why?

A: “I do not like surprises. I am a planner and surprises cause stress in my life.”

Q: What is that moment in your life you will always remember?

A: “I remember being a student mentor in high school. I was at Los Lunas Elementary mentoring a student with special needs. I knew I would be an educator after this experience because I learned so much from my mentee. Being an educator has brought so much joy and happiness to my life. I’ve meet incredible people and developed lifelong friendships as a result of becoming an educator.”

Q: If you woke up as your 16-year-oldself tomorrow, what would you do?

A: “I would worry a lot less and tell myself to enjoy life a lot more.”

Q: Where was your most unforgettable vacation?

A: “Our vacations are always memorable. It is a challenge to pick one. I love to spend time on the beach.”

Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world right now, where would you go?

A: “I would love to visit Spain. It is definitely on my list of places to travel.”