SW New Mexico News

Las Cruces Public Schools is preparing to address student population balance for the upcoming school year. The district has scheduled three town hall meetings to discuss proposed changes to school zones. These changes are linked to the opening of Columbia Elementary School and aim to manage overcrowding in East Mesa schools while potentially increasing enrollment at Mayfield High School. Any modifications require approval from the LCPS Board of Education.

The first meeting will take place at Organ Mountain High School on Thursday, Nov. 14, at 5:30 p.m., covering zone options for all school levels and allowing public feedback. Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz and consultant Colleen Martinez will lead the discussion. Martinez, president of Visions in Planning, brings experience in educational planning.

A second meeting is set for Wednesday, Nov. 20, at Mayfield High School with a similar agenda and opportunity for input.

A third session, conducted in Spanish, will be held on Thursday, Dec. 5, at the Dr. Karen M. Trujillo Administration Complex.

Sherley O’Brien, Chief of Student Services and Community Relations, leads the redistricting initiative with a committee representing various community stakeholders. Updates are available on the Redistricting Advisory Committee’s website.

Policy JCAA outlines the redistricting process allowing zone changes due to new schools or population shifts.

The LCPS Board may vote on permanent changes during their Dec. 17 meeting.