District highlights student growth, safety upgrades and new mental health data in latest update to board

Organ Mountain News report

LAS CRUCES - Las Cruces Public Schools leaders say the district is making measurable progress toward the six goals in its five-year strategic plan, now entering its second year of implementation.

Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz and district administrators presented recent data to the Board of Education last week, detailing advances in student growth, campus safety, mental health and attendance.

Literacy and math growth

Deputy Superintendent for Teaching and Learning Wendi Miller-Tomlinson said 59 percent of students met their typical growth goals last academic year — an indicator that students are advancing at expected yearly rates in reading and math.

“Students are growing, but the measure helps teachers tailor instruction to ensure growth is both meaningful and measurable,” she said.

Superintendent Ruiz noted the plan allows for ongoing adjustments as the district tracks year-to-year progress.

“Our approach is about meeting students where they are,” he said. “The progress reflects the work of our teachers and students.”

Focus on wellbeing

Chief of Educational Equity and Support Programs Roberto Lozano said LCPS is building a data-based foundation to strengthen student and staff wellbeing. Surveys and classroom wellness walk-throughs identified strong student engagement in physical activity but also revealed the need for deeper family involvement and employee wellness support.

“This work gives us a clearer picture of where our families, staff and students need additional support,” Lozano said. “It helps us target resources where they can make the most impact.”

Safety improvements

Chief of Operations Steve Rodriguez reported that Evolv security systems are now installed in all LCPS high schools and middle schools, and door locks have been upgraded districtwide. Future goals include full documentation of safety drills and ongoing meetings of campus safety teams.

Engagement and attendance

Lozano and Executive Director of Academic Counseling and Behavioral Health Amy Himelright said the district has seen a three percent improvement in attendance, supported by new incentives and community partnerships — including a $10,000 donation from Sisbarro Automotive for high school attendance rewards.

“The pandemic shifted how families and students engage with school,” Himelright said. “We’re adapting to meet those needs while keeping our focus on student success.”

A living plan

Board President Pamela Cort praised the plan as “our mission and vision in action,” emphasizing that goals must adapt as the district learns from ongoing data.

Superintendent Ruiz added, “The strategic plan is about more than numbers. It’s about students. Data helps us support teachers in the classroom and ensures that every student has the opportunity to succeed.”

For progress updates and details on the six strategic goals, visit the Strategic Plan page at lcps.net.