LCPS Celebrates Academic Gains in State Assessments

Marked Improvement in Literacy, Steady Growth in Math & Science

Students across Las Cruces Public Schools demonstrated significant academic growth in the New Mexico Public Education Department’s Spring 2025 assessment results, marking improvements in literacy and steady progress in math and science across nearly every school in the district.

The statewide report highlights historic post-pandemic gains in literacy, with New Mexico proficiency rates rising 10 percentage points since 2022. Locally, LCPS schools followed that upward trend with elementary, middle, and high school students showing measurable growth in key academic areas.

Among standout achievements, the NMPED recognized the following schools for growth in literacy and/or math:

Across the district, LCPS students also contributed to the statewide rise in early literacy, where proficiency among kindergarteners increased by 13 percentage points in one year. Structured literacy programs, professional development, and dedicated literacy coaches have all played a role in this sustained progress.

“These results are a testament to the hard work and dedication of our teachers, principals and instructional support staff who continue to close learning gaps and move our students forward,” said Ignacio Ruiz, Superintendent of Las Cruces Public Schools. “But assessments are not the destination; they are just one piece of our overall goal of ensuring every student, in every school, has access to high-quality instruction that prepares them for the next level. Education is the equalizer that will position our students to realize success post-graduation as they enter the workforce.”

Ruiz added that the improvements in state-reported scores directly support the LCPS Strategic Plan, which centers on Student Success, Instructional Excellence, and Culture & Climate.

“Through evidence-based literacy practices, structured math support and a districtwide focus on data-driven instruction, LCPS is delivering on its commitment to meet every learner where they are and ensure equitable access to opportunities that lead to academic and personal growth,” said Ruiz.

While math scores statewide remain an area for improvement, LCPS’ results show promising growth among early grades and targeted schools, supported by new K–8 benchmark assessments and ongoing professional learning for math instruction.

“Every gain represents a student’s success story,” added Ruiz. “Our mission is to ensure that this momentum continues, especially as we invest in instructional supports and academic enrichment programs throughout the district to ensure every student thrives. To that point, I am very proud that 97 percent of our schools are now designated as a Spotlight or Traditional school, according to the state’s accountability system.”

According to the New Mexico Public Education Department’s accountability system, schools receive designations based on overall performance, student growth, attendance, and the success of specific student groups. A school earns a Spotlight designation when its overall school index score ranks among the top schools statewide, and no student subgroup is flagged for additional support. A Traditional designation indicates the school is meeting state expectations and performing within an acceptable range, without significant areas of concern.

The 2025 assessment results will help guide LCPS’ strategic priorities as the district continues its focus on academic excellence, equity, and continuous improvement.

For more information about the Spring 2025 assessment results, please visit the New Mexico Public Education Department’s Achievement Data page.