SW New Mexico News

White Sands School has been recognized as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School, as announced this week by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. This recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups. Among the 356 schools recognized, three are in New Mexico.

“Congratulations to White Sands School on this remarkable achievement!” noted Las Cruces Public Schools Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz. “Being recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, staff and community. This honor reflects our commitment to educational excellence and our shared goal of ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive. We are incredibly proud of what this school has accomplished and look forward to continuing our mission of fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment for all.”

The 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools reflect the full diversity of American education and serve students from all backgrounds. While awardees represent various types of schools, they share common traits. National Blue Ribbon schools are led by leaders who articulate a clear vision of instructional excellence and uphold high standards. They showcase effective teaching methods and offer robust professional development for their staff. Data-driven instruction is emphasized, with efforts to ensure every student's success. Collaboration among families, communities, and educators is also key.

“I am ecstatic,” said White Sands School Principal James Dickerson upon receiving the news. “Receiving this recognition is a direct reflection of our dedication to district initiatives, our curriculum, and the Las Cruces Public Schools’ strategic plan to be a place where all learners thrive.”

Included in the application submitted for consideration, Dickerson explained how White Sands School fosters a positive learning environment for educators by supporting innovative learning opportunities like the Sun Chiefs Academy for elementary and middle school students. The academy provides dedicated time each week for students to focus on successfully passing two lessons in both reading and math. Due to its small school setting, students can collaborate more frequently with each other and learn from their teachers and peers.

“We have unwavering support from our parent community,” added Dickerson. “We look forward to building on this partnership to provide outstanding learning opportunities for generations of students to come.”

The school serves 279 students in pre-K through 8th grade, with most students attending elementary school. In the 2022-2023 school year, White Sands School had a 93% daily attendance rate. There are 38 staff members at White Sands School, including 20 classroom teachers.

To read more about White Sands School curriculum and overview, click here for a copy of the final application.

White Sands School appears approximately 23 minutes into the official announcement shared on YouTube by U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona.

White Sands School is located on White Sands Missile Range in Las Cruces, New Mexico. The missile range is one of three army posts designated as remote by the Department of the Army. Approximately 950 people live within the post, including military retirees. The missile range is located 17 miles from Las Cruces, New Mexico. Established in 1952, White Sands School resides within this post and is one of the older schools within its district. About 35 percent of its student population consists of active-duty military students living on post; the remaining 65 percent commute from Las Cruces with their parents who are contractors at White Sands Missile Range.