Alamogordo Educator Mr. Russel Juntilla Hortilano Honored with National PLTW Teacher Award

ALAMOGORDO, NM — Alamogordo High School science teacher Mr. Russel Juntilla Hortilano has been named a recipient of the prestigious 2025–2026 Outstanding Project Lead The Way (PLTW) National Teacher Award, placing him among the top STEM educators in the United States. Selected from a pool of over 116,000 PLTW instructors nationwide, Hortilano’s recognition highlights his unwavering dedication to student success, career readiness, and hands-on learning.

PLTW is a nationally recognized PreK–12 curriculum focused on Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), with a strong emphasis on project-based instruction and real-world applications. Hortilano has taught Principles of Biomedical Science (PBS) and Human Anatomy and Physiology at Alamogordo High School since 2021, and has served as a certified PLTW instructor for five years.

“This honor is not about personal accolades,” Hortilano shared. “It’s a testament to prayer, perseverance, and the power of community. I’m grateful to HOSA–Future Health Professionals, my mentor Mrs. Darlene Hayman Mellen, my fellow J1 teachers, and especially my wife Alodeah, who inspires me daily.”

Originally from the Philippines, Hortilano holds multiple degrees including a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Master of Arts in Nursing (Maternal and Child Health), and a Master of Arts in Education (Science Education). He is currently completing his dissertation toward a Ph.D. in Science Education with a focus in Biology. He is a licensed Biology teacher, a registered nurse, and a Level 3 educator in New Mexico.

Beyond the classroom, Hortilano serves as advisor to AHS’s HOSA chapter, a Basic Life Support instructor for the American Heart Association, and a member of numerous professional organizations including NEA, ASHA, NMACTE, and AFTEA. He has judged state competitions for FCCLA, TSA, FFA, and MESA, and was invited to judge the 2025 Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair in Ohio. His national and international engagements include speaking roles at the 2024 Regeneron Research Teachers Conference in Washington, D.C. and the 4th International Research and Education Conference in New York.

Alamogordo Public Schools administrators praised Hortilano’s achievement as a reflection of the district’s commitment to excellence in Career and Technical Education. His story stands as an inspiration to educators and students alike—proof that dedication, faith, and community support can lead to extraordinary impact.

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