SW New Mexico News

Las Cruces Public Schools recently received a substantial financial boost from New Mexico lawmakers for various student programs and support initiatives. The funding, totaling over $5 million, was allocated towards essential district programs including Career and Technical Education (CTE), family support, outdoor classrooms, an aviation program, and staff wellness.

A significant portion of the funding, amounting to $1.15 million, was pledged by Sen. Carrie Hamblen, Sen. Crystal Diamond Brantley, Sen. Jeff Steinborn, and Rep. Nathan Small for the construction of a new CTE center at Rio Grande Preparatory Institute. This center will offer vocational skills training and hands-on experience for students.

Furthermore, approximately $3.1 million was earmarked for a family support center at LCPS, with contributions from several lawmakers including Sen. Bill Soules, Rep. Angelica Rubio, Rep. Micaela Cadena, Rep. Joanne Ferrary, and Rep. Doreen Gallegos. The family support center will provide comprehensive services such as healthcare, mental health support, parent engagement, and workforce connections.

In addition to these initiatives, Rep. Willie Madrid, Sen. Diamond Brantley, and Sen. Soules collectively supported $750,000 in funding for outdoor classrooms, an aviation program, and a staff wellness center. This investment is crucial for supporting the well-being of the over 4,500 employees of LCPS, making it one of the largest employers in the state.

The legislative session concluded with approval for $4.7 billion in statewide education funding, reflecting a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and support for students across New Mexico.