SW New Mexico News

The Las Cruces Public Schools Board of Education has appointed Ignacio Ruíz as the new superintendent of schools. The decision was made unanimously on Saturday afternoon, with Ruíz set to begin his role on August 1, 2023. Until then, Interim Superintendent Sherley O’Brien will manage the district.

Ruíz's contract will run from August 1, 2023, to June 30, 2025. His annual salary is $200,000. Additionally, the board has approved an executive coach to support his leadership. LCPS Board of Education President Teresa Tenorio stated that this measure is intended "to support the superintendent’s leadership." Ruíz will also receive standard benefits according to district policy.

In a statement made via Zoom after the announcement, Ruíz expressed his gratitude: “It’s great to be here,” he said in both English and Spanish. “I’m glad for this opportunity, and I’m honored and humbled to be selected as the new superintendent of LCPS. It was evident from the beginning that the board values what’s best for kids, and I look forward to being part of the Las Cruces community.”

Ruíz emerged as one of three finalists in a search initiated after former superintendent Ralph Ramos announced his retirement in March.

Currently serving as an assistant superintendent for Clark County School District in Nevada—the fifth largest school district in the U.S.—Ruíz brings extensive experience from various leadership roles including assistant principal, principal, and director positions. He previously served as Director of Language Acquisition at Tucson Unified School District. Ruíz is a graduate of both ALAS National Superintendent Academy and Georgetown's McCourt School of Public Policy.