Terry Kominiak. Source:

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Terry Kominiak was a teacher at Corrales Elementary from 1996 until her retirement in December 2023. She passed away unexpectedly on Monday, June 17, 2024. 

In many ways Terry was the person that we all strive to be: Everyone’s better nature. Her motives were always ethical; do right because it’s right. She did the right thing because that was fundamentally who she was and not because she felt it was expected or that she wanted to impress. Terry graciously “walked the walk” and her spiritual aura permeated everything.

Profoundly empathetic, and kind to a fault, her wittiness was never mean or at the expense of another person. Probably because of her own life experience, Terry’s feelings and reactions were always tempered by the idea that we never know what another person is going through, and she naturally gave everyone the benefit of the doubt. She brought optimism and a rational point of view to every situation. Although she went the extra mile to be relatable and to make sure she was there to support friends, colleagues and students, she was always brave enough to speak the truth and to take a stand. She was generous with her time and willing to share her perspective on problem-solving and understanding.

With selfless dedication to all the children in her classroom, Terry had a keen eye for those who needed special care and went above and beyond to enrich their lives.

Her colleagues called her “the kid whisperer” because her way of connecting with students, before teaching students, was a marvel to behold. She had a genius gift for getting into a struggling student’s head and giving them strategies so that they could learn to regulate themselves, build relationships with others, and succeed academically. Small and mighty, and loved by her students, she was always willing to listen and give great advice. Terry was deeply empathetic with her students, families and community in knowing them personally and understanding the students’ and families’ struggles.

Her contributions to the good in this world are immeasurable and invaluable. She will be missed and remembered by the many people she touched. 

A community gathering is being planned for August 11, at the Corrales Library Park.