Las Cruces Public Schools (LCPS) is embarking on a significant endeavor by convening an advisory committee to tackle the task of redistricting school zones. This initiative aims to address issues such as overcrowding at East Mesa schools and the need to bolster student populations at Mayfield High School. The district is inviting parents to apply for one of the 16 positions on the Redistricting Advisory Committee, which will also include LCPS staff, students, and two Board of Education members.
Parents who are interested in joining the committee can apply online at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/redistrictlc by Friday, Aug. 23. A drawing of all applicants will be held on Monday, Aug. 26 to determine which parents will have the opportunity to sit on the committee. Once all members are selected, the committee will meet on Sept. 5, Oct. 15, and Oct. 30 to begin their work.
The primary goal of the Redistricting Advisory Committee is to outline new school attendance boundaries, which will then be presented to the Board of Education for approval. This process will involve gathering input from the communities served by LCPS to ensure that the new boundaries are fair and equitable. The district’s School Attendance Zones and Redistricting policy authorizes the committee’s work on redistricting, particularly in anticipation of the opening of Columbia Elementary in the 2025 school year.
Columbia Elementary, which was closed in September 2018 due to a mold infestation, is nearing completion of its reconstruction. The old facility was demolished in 2022, and construction of the new elementary school began shortly after. Designed by architectural firm Vigil and Associates, the new Columbia Elementary is expected to accommodate 752 students from prekindergarten to fifth grade on approximately 17 acres of land.
The new facility, spanning 100,000 square feet, was meticulously planned to provide a safe and conducive learning environment for students. The district sought input from the community to ensure that the design of the new school meets the needs and preferences of students, parents, and staff. The completion of Columbia Elementary signifies a fresh start for the school and its students, offering a modern and innovative space for learning and growth.
In conclusion, the efforts of the Redistricting Advisory Committee and the construction of Columbia Elementary demonstrate LCPS’s commitment to providing quality education and facilities for its students. By involving parents, staff, and community members in these processes, the district ensures that decisions are made collaboratively and with the best interests of students in mind. The future looks bright for Las Cruces Public Schools as they continue to strive for excellence in education.
