A high school student who regularly testifies before state lawmakers and speaks at board meetings has been named Student of the Year by Public Charter Schools of New Mexico.
Miller Millea, a student at East Mountain High School, received the award for grades 7-12 as part of the organization’s 2025 Excellence Awards, which recognize leadership and advocacy within the state’s charter school community.
The award honors students who demonstrate leadership, resilience and commitment to their school communities while managing the demands of adolescence, according to the organization.
Millea leads outreach and advocacy efforts at his school and represents New Mexico in national charter advocacy programs. He frequently appears at legislative hearings to support charter school initiatives.
“When I have to testify in the State Legislature or present to our charter school authorizer, there is one person I can always count on to stand with me in those high-stakes moments,” said Trey Smith, executive director of East Mountain High School. “It’s not a faculty member or administrator—it’s been Miller Millea with me every step of the way.”
The Excellence Awards are part of a two-part series recognizing educators, students and legislative leaders who support public charter schools across New Mexico.