EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — White Sands School, located at White Sands Missile Range, garnered a prestigious national honor this past week — being named a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School.
The school was among 356 schools across the nation and just three in New Mexico to make the list, according to Las Cruces Public Schools.
“This prestigious recognition highlights schools that excel in academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among different student groups,” LCPS said in a news release.
The National Blue Ribbon School program is administered by the U.S. Department of Education to recognize exemplary public and non-public schools on an annual basis.
“Being recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our students, staff and community,” LCPS Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz said.
“This honor reflects our commitment to educational excellence and our shared goal of ensuring that every student has the opportunity to thrive. We are incredibly proud of what this school has accomplished and look forward to continuing our mission of fostering a supportive and enriching learning environment for all,” Ruiz said.
White Sands School Principal James Dickerson said: “Receiving this recognition is a direct reflection of our dedication to district initiatives, our curriculum and the Las Cruces Public Schools’ strategic plan to be a place where all learners thrive.”
The school serves 279 students in pre-K through 8th grade, with the majority of students attending elementary school. In the 2022-2023 school year, White Sands School had a 93% daily attendance rate, according to LCPS.
In total, there are 38 school staff members at White Sands School, including 20 classroom teachers.
White Sands School is located on White Sands Missile Range outside of Las Cruces. White Sands Missile Range is one of three Army posts that are designated as remote by the Department of the Army. Approximately 950 people live on post, including military retirees.
The student population at White Sands School consists of approximately 35 percent active-duty military students who live on post. The other 65 percent of students commute from Las Cruces with their parents, who are contractors at White Sands Missile Range.
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