Emery has been with Aztec Municipal Schools for over 11 years and proudly serves as one of the inaugural members of the District Safety Team. With more than 20 years of experience in the San Juan County Volunteer Fire Department, Emery brings a deep commitment to the welfare of students and staff. Known for his light-hearted sense of humor and practical jokes, Emery keeps things fun while remaining dedicated to the serious responsibility of school safety. He truly loves his role in the district.

Bobby is a U.S. Air Force veteran who served for 22 years, including nine combat tours. After retiring, he moved to the Farmington area in 2010 and spent a decade working as a parts specialist. In 2024, Bobby joined the Aztec Municipal School District as a Safety Specialist and now serves as the resident safety team member at Koogler Middle School. Bobby brings a strong sense of service and is committed to keeping students and staff safe for years to come.

Omar lives in Aztec and enjoys the great outdoors with his wife and their dogs—hiking, biking, rafting, and exploring nature whenever they can. He has worked in the district for over a year and brings a calm, approachable presence to his role. Omar loves connecting with students and cheering on the Tigers at sporting events. Go Tigers!

A proud Aztec High School graduate (Class of 2009), Cheryl brings both passion and purpose to the AMSD Safety Team. After spending several years in Carlsbad, NM, Cheryl and her husband Don returned to Aztec in 2021 to be closer to family. She holds an associate’s degree in Biology from New Mexico State University and is continuing her education through Arizona State University. Cheryl began her journey in education at Kinteel Residential Campus, where she worked as a Residential Assistant and later an Activity Coordinator. In 2024, she joined AMSD as a Safety Specialist. In her free time, Cheryl enjoys reading, music, movies, and spending time with her family and their three dogs.

Billy Newton is a U.S. Air Force veteran with over 20 years of service and a long-standing career in public safety. He spent more than two decades at San Juan College’s Department of Public Safety, eventually retiring as Director. Prior to joining Aztec Municipal Schools, Billy worked in private security at Aztec High School for four years. As an original member of the District Safety Team, Billy brings extensive experience, leadership, and a deep commitment to campus safety.

Cody brings nearly three decades of experience in safety and security to the Aztec Municipal School District. A retired firefighter and former U.S. Marine, Cody holds a bachelor’s degree in Fire Science and is a certified advanced firearms instructor. His expertise spans school, event, and church security, asset protection, access control, and executive protection. Cody is also certified in active shooter response instruction. His decision to serve as a Safety Specialist with AMSD is rooted in his desire to give back to the community he calls home.

John Welch, a 2006 graduate of Aztec High School, is a veteran of the United States Army, where he served for six years in force protection and vehicle maintenance. After his service, he attended the Pikes Peak Regional Law Enforcement Academy and worked as a peace officer in Colorado before returning home to serve with the Aztec Police Department for five years. John became the District Safety Coordinator for Aztec Schools in July 2022. Deeply committed to youth and community, John has also served as a youth pastor and football coach for over five years. He and his wife of 18 years are raising two daughters and are proud to live, work, and play in the Aztec community they love.