RRPS Fine Arts receives Rollie Heltman Service Award

RIO RANCHO — It wasn’t a surprise, but it was still a fantastic honor when RRPS Fine Arts Executive Director Kurt Schmidt received official word that his department had been awarded the 2025 Rollie Heltman Service Award.

Schmidt told the Observer in August that the district had already been notified by the New Mexico Music Educators Association (NMMEA) that it would be receiving the award, but getting the official notification is a validating moment for Schmidt, who has worked steadfastly to build the Fine Arts Department since he came onboard with RRPS over 20 years ago.

“I never had the opportunity to meet Rollie Heltman, but I am humbled and honored that our Fine Arts Department is now associated with his great legacy of dedication and service,” he recently told the Observer.

The NMMEA notified Schmidt via email and cited specific examples of the district’s impact.

“Your unwavering support and exceptional service to NMMEA have not gone unnoticed,” read the notification, which Schmidt received via email on Monday (Jan. 6). “We are deeply grateful for RRPS’s consistent willingness to assist in hosting and coordinating key events such as the Summer Workshop, state contests, and a modified All-State in-service during COVID.”

Named for career music educator Rollie Heltman (he was also the father of Santa Fe Symphony Founder and former Executive Director Greg Heltman), the Rollie Heltman Service Award is given to individuals and/or groups who have gone above-and-beyond in assisting the NMMEA and New Mexico students with events, classes, etc.

According to Schmidt, in the case of this year’s award, RRPS mostly provided venues and facility support for NMMEA events.

The NMMEA, however, says that’s a humble assessment of the RRPS contributions. It wasn’t just space the district volunteered.

“Additionally, the numerous teachers in your district who have shared their expertise through professional development presentations at various NMMEA events have greatly enriched our state organization,” the notification said.

Schmidt will be on hand to receive the award from the NMMEA at a closed celebratory luncheon on Jan. 10.

“This ceremony will be a wonderful opportunity for your colleagues, friends, and family to recognize and honor your significant contributions to music education in New Mexico,” said the invitation from the NMMEA.