SW New Mexico News

The Las Cruces Public Schools Board of Education has finalized the instructional calendar for the 2025-2026 academic year, opting for Draft B. This decision aligns with the preferences of most survey participants. Under this plan, kindergarten, sixth, and ninth grades will commence on July 25, 2025, while all other grades will begin on July 28. The board also approved instructional calendars for the subsequent two school years.

Dr. Wendi Miller-Tomlinson spearheaded the committee that presented three calendar options to both the community and the board. Over 5,000 responses were gathered through an online survey launched on January 16 via the LCPS website and social media platforms. The survey was open to students, parents, staff, and community members.

Survey respondents had three options: Option A offered balanced breaks throughout the year; Option B provided a longer summer break with shorter fall and spring breaks; Option C also featured a longer summer break but fewer interruptions during the school year. Participants expressed a desire for a calendar that balances breaks to support mental health and academic retention.

Challenges associated with Draft B were discussed as well. Concerns included potential impacts on learning retention due to extended summer breaks and difficulties some students might face when transitioning back to school after a long summer hiatus.

The board's approval of instructional calendars extends through to the 2027-2028 school year in response to requests for more consistency and stability in school scheduling.

All approved instructional calendars are accessible in both English and Spanish on the LCPS website.