For Desiree L. Veloz, education is not just a career—it’s a calling. Currently serving as the Principal of Pahrump Valley High School (PVHS), Mrs. Veloz’s journey into education began in 2006 at Rosemary Clarke Middle School, where she taught 7th-grade English. Despite entering the classroom with no prior teaching experience and a Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism – Public Relations with an English major, she quickly fell in love with teaching. “I fell in love with the teaching and learning process and inspiring students,” she recalls.
A few years later, Mrs. Veloz transitioned to PVHS, where she discovered her true passion: guiding students as they prepared for adulthood, sharing pathways and possibilities, and equipping them with the tools to realize their dreams. Although the recession in 2010-2011 resulted in her being RIF’d out of her teaching position, it led to an enriching eight-year tenure at the district office, where she supported new teachers and staff and assisted administrators. “During this time, I had incredible learning experiences that fueled my passion, leading me to want to go back to the classroom to hone my craft and/or to move to a leadership role with a deeper impact than my current role.” This fueled desire prompted her to pursue a Master’s Degree in administration.
Encouraged by role models and driven by a sense of calling, Mrs. Veloz took on the role of Assistant Principal at PVHS. Despite initial doubts about her readiness, she felt that PVHS was where she belonged. Just two years later, she stepped into the Principal position, embracing the opportunity to serve and make a significant impact on the school community. Reflecting on her journey, she says, “I truly believe that I was called to serve.” Mrs. Veloz also reflects on her 20-year plan when she was in high school, reflecting on how she got part of it right. “In my high school English class, I had to write a 20-year essay, detailing where I would be in twenty years. In that essay, part of my vision was to serve Nye County as a Nye County Commissioner, giving back to the people and county that gave my family so much. It turns out, I had the wrong government entity. Nye County is my home and my mission, it just happens to be in the schools. And, what a gift it is.”
In her personal vision for PVHS, Mrs. Veloz focuses on “Every Person a Success.” She believes in harnessing individual gifts to contribute to the greater good. This vision emphasizes intentionality, communication, and collaboration among educators to provide meaningful and relevant blueprints for students. She advocates for building a Professional Learning Community where educators work together to improve outcomes based on essential standards and data-driven decisions.
A typical day for Mrs. Veloz is jam-packed with activities and responsibilities. She starts her day at 6:30 a.m. and often works until 6 to 8 p.m. Her day includes responding to communications, attending meetings, greeting students (which is a highlight of her day), addressing student needs, and participating in lunch duty. She prioritizes meeting with parents, evaluating teachers, supporting students, and attending sports events. Despite the long hours, and admitting that her job isn’t without challenges, she finds immense satisfaction in working with students and staff, saying, “Working with individuals to grow and learn not only enhances their lives but mine too!”
Engaging with students, parents, and the broader community is a priority for Mrs. Veloz. She encourages direct communication, prefers staff to call parents, and uses Trojan cards to celebrate excellence and growth. PVHS hosts assemblies, quarterly grade/attendance celebrations, and athletic events to foster community involvement.
Outside of her professional life, Mrs. Veloz enjoys spending time with her family, working out, baking, and reading. Balancing work and personal life is a challenge, but she views her role as more than just a job. “I see this as my life’s work and there is no definitive start and stop,” she explains.
When Mrs. Veloz began her tenure as Principal at PVHS, she introduced the Success Principles to the staff, students, and families. These principles, which include “Clear is Kind,” “People First,” “Talk to me not about me,” “Feedback is the breakfast of champions,” “Grounded in truth, it’s not personal,” and “Take 100% responsibility,” form the foundation of their work. She believes these principles are applicable in all aspects of life and are essential for achieving her vision of “Every Person a Success.”
Desiree L. Veloz’s commitment to PVHS is unwavering. She is dedicated to the long-term success of the school, students, and community, inspired by the impact her own teachers had on her. “I am committed to our school, students, and community for the long term, as this county and teachers have impacted me greatly, and now it is my turn,” she affirms.
