AVID is a program for students in the academic “middle” (GPA 2.0 to 3.5) who are underachieving, underrepresented, and/or first-generation college students.  The purpose of AVID is to prepare students for college.  The AVID elective class provides academic support to students.  Writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization & reading (WICOR), along with tutorials and study skills are the core strategies of the AVID program.  

AVID Graduation Cord Requirements:

• Student has a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

• Student accepted to an accredited college or university, trade school or military

• Student must have been in the AVID Program a minimum of two years with the final year being their senior year.  

AVID Graduation Stole Requirement:

• Student must have a GPA of 2.0 or higher 

• Student has been accepted to an accredited college or university, trade school or military

• Student has been in the AVID Program all four years of high school.

Sponsor: Suzie Padilla

Cord: Blue and Gold

Art Club offers students the opportunity to investigate and learn new art techniques in addition to creating art for themselves

Art Club Meets Tuesdays afterschool.

Graduation Cord Requirements: Beginning with the 2025-26 school year

•  At least 3 years of art classes with a B or better.

• Take one dual credit class.

• Be a member of art club for at least 2 years.

• Participate in a Senior Art Show.

Sponsor: Elizabeth Prusak

Cord: Rainbow

Bernalillo Band is open to students in grades 9-12.

Sponsor: Tristan Tucker

Cord: Pink

Medical Sciences is a CTE/Career Pathway for students 9-12th grades who aspire to enter the healthcare and biomedical science industry. The purpose of the Medical Science Program is to prepare students for the next steps into a post-secondary education program. The Medical Science elective classes provide students with the foundational knowledge that they would not get with a standalone Science class. Students focus on Problem- and Project-based activities that strengthen their communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity skills.

Medical Honors Graduation Cords Requirements:

•  Students have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher.

• Students have completed a minimum of 3 medical science courses.

Medical Science Distinguished Award Requirements:

• Students must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher 

• Students have completed the 4 medical science courses and successfully completed their senior capstone defense.
  

Sponsor: Stephanie Gurule Leyba

Cord: Royal Blue

An entirely student-led organization formed to promote the learning of culture and encourage students to become leaders and advocates in school as well as the community.

Graduation Cord Requirements: Students must participate in 80% of all meetings and leadership conferences

Sponsor: Alma Salinas

Cord: Red and Gold

Students can earn a graduation cord for English Language Acquisition by demonstrating proficiency in English. Those who exhibit strong skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing will be recognized for their dedication and achievement in academic English.

Graduation Cord Requirements: Students must achieve an overall score of 4.7 or higher on the annual ACCESS assessment for English language learners.

Cord: Black, Red, Kelly Green and Gold

Premier Leadership, Personal Growth, Career Success. (National FFA Motto) Explore agricultural advocacy through leadership development and personal growth opportunities, Bernalillo FFA is committed to helping members find their passion and build their future. (Bernalillo FFA Chapter Motto)

• Participation Requirements: Must maintain a 2.5 GPA, must be enrolled into an agriculture course at the high school, & be enrolled in on campus courses for more than 51% of the school day. 

• Meeting times: 2nd & 4th Tuesday from 2:45pm-4:30pm in RM 401 (Ag building)

Graduation Cord Requirements: To be eligible for graduation cords students must be an active member (student participated in fundraising efforts, LDE & CDE competitions, school site events, etc.) for a minimum of two years (one of the years must be their senior year). They must uphold the Bernalillo FFA's values and traditions while always maintaining professionalism and  positive leadership which will be determined by the FFA Advisor. 

Sponsor: Matricia Redwine

Cord: National Blue and Corn Gold

Our GEAR UP CEO Ambassadors are students that help with all the GEAR UP Campaigns and activities throughout the year.  This includes GEAR UP Week activities, College Application Day, FAFSA Completion, 8th Grade Transition, and Community Service Projects. 

Sponsors: Marisol Aragon & Lupe Cervantes

Cord: Red and Gray

MESA stands for Mathematics, Engineering, and Science Achievement. It is a club designed to support students who are interested in pursuing careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. The MESA Club provides a platform for students to engage in hands-on activities, competitions, and collaborative projects that enhance their understanding of these subjects. Mesa aims to spark students’ curiosity and passion for mathematics, engineering and science through fun and interactive activities that will help them develop critical thinking, problem solving and team work skills essential for success in STEM Careers.

Graduation Cord Requirements: Members who fulfill the requirements of the MESA Loyalty Award

Sponsor: Melba Acantilado

Cord: White and Gold

The National Honor Society (NHS) is a prestigious organization that recognizes outstanding high school students who demonstrate excellence in four key areas: scholarship, leadership, service, and character. Being a member of the NHS not only honors your achievements but also provides opportunities for personal growth and community involvement.

Requirements for Membership

To be eligible for membership in the National Honor Society, students must meet the following criteria:

• Scholarship: Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.7 and above.

• Leadership: Demonstrate leadership skills through participation in school clubs,

  sports, or community organizations.

• Service: Complete a 15 hours minimum number of community service hours.

• Character: Uphold high moral standards and demonstrate good character

Graduation Cord Requirements: Members who fulfill the requirements of the National Honor Society are awarded a special graduation cord. This cord is worn during the graduation ceremony to signify their achievement and dedication to the values of the NHS. Receiving the graduation cord is a mark of honor that reflects not only academic success but also a commitment to serving others and leading by example.

Sponsor: Melba Acantilado

Blue Cowl

Students can earn the New Mexico Bilingual Seal by demonstrating proficiency in both English and another language. The seal is an official recognition of students' bilingualism and biliteracy, honoring their cultural and linguistic achievements.

Graduation Cord Requirements: To qualify, students must meet language proficiency requirements through approved assessments, coursework, portfolio, and/or a presentation that includes speaking, reading, and writing in the target language.

Cord: Red, Bright Gold and White

The BHS Outdoor Club emphasizes environmental education and peer collaboration by exposing students to experiences in nature through hiking, backpacking, cross-country skiing, snow-showing, camping, and other outdoor activities.  The club expects students to accept one another, be responsible, contribute, and cooperate in a group effort through fundraising, trip preparation, and in the development of club guidelines and safety procedures.  For camping trips, mixed groups work together to set up camp, collect and chop firewood, cook, clean-up, break camp and participate in group treks and/or activities.  When introducing members to new activities, participants are required to teach and patiently encourage one another. The goal is to respect and appreciate nature and each other. Furthermore, club members become familiar with outdoor employment opportunities by meeting a variety of professionals who work in different positions. 

Sponsors: Karla Bejos

A vibrant community dedicated to supporting and celebrating the rich heritage of Native American students. Our mission is to create a welcoming space where indigenous youth can thrive, share their stories, and raise awareness about their unique cultures.

Graduation Cord Requirements: Seniors must participate in 80% of meetings and 90% of SISU events and maintain a 2.5 GPA minimum at graduation.

Sponsor: Lorilei Chavez

Cord: Turquoise

The Bernalillo High School Student Council, is an organization formed to promote and encourage a voice and reflect the views of the student body of Bernalillo High School.

Graduation Cord Requirements: Students must participate in BHS Student Council for at least 2 years, one year must be during their senior year, participate in at least 70% of all school sponsored activities and attend at least one NMASC Conference.

Sponsor: Jennifer Jaramillo

Cord: Red and White