LCPS opens enrollment for new statewide online school

Las Cruces Public Schools has opened enrollment for Aspire Online School, a new virtual public school serving eligible K-12 students statewide.

LCPS opens enrollment for new statewide online school
A student works on a laptop while wearing headphones. LCPS has opened enrollment for Aspire Online School, a new statewide K-12 virtual public school. (Compare Fibre / Unsplash)

Aspire Online School will serve eligible K-12 students across New Mexico beginning with the 2026-27 school year

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - Las Cruces Public Schools has opened enrollment for Aspire Online School, a new K-12 virtual public school serving eligible students throughout New Mexico.

The new school expands on the district’s existing Virtual Learning Academy, which provides online instruction to LCPS students in grades 3-12. While the academy primarily serves students in the Las Cruces area, Aspire will accept eligible students from kindergarten through 12th grade who live anywhere in the state.

The first day of the 2026-27 school year is Monday, July 27. A transition day for students entering kindergarten, sixth grade and ninth grade will be held Friday, July 24.

“Las Cruces Public Schools is committed to meeting students where they are and providing high-quality learning opportunities that fit the unique needs of every family,” Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz said. “With Aspire Online School, we’re building on the success of our Virtual Learning Academy by expanding access to students across New Mexico.”

Students ages 5 to 21 who live in New Mexico may be eligible to enroll.

Aspire students will receive a laptop and enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity. The program will also provide access to state-certified teachers, academic support staff, an information technology help desk and virtual tutoring available around the clock.

“Online learning doesn’t mean learning alone,” Ruiz said. “Every Aspire student will have access to a team of educators and support professionals dedicated to helping them thrive.”

Families can learn more or begin the enrollment process at aspirenewmexico.com or by calling 575-680-1370.

Keep Reading

Woman killed after being struck by train in Las Cruces — Police say the 35-year-old woman was walking along railroad tracks near Brown Road late Tuesday.

Branigan Cultural Center to feature Piro-Manso-Tiwa Indian Tribe exhibit — The free exhibit opens July 18 and highlights the tribe’s stories, traditions and deep ties to the Borderland region.

As homelessness changes in Las Cruces, so does Community of Hope — Rising rents, more first-time homelessness and a growing focus on permanent housing are reshaping the city’s primary hub for homeless services.

Cut through the noise

Sign up for our free email newsletter to receive the latest headlines from Organ Mountain News