Gadsden

The Gadsden Independent Schools district in New Mexico serves 28 schools, including 20 elementary schools, 3 middle schools, and 5 high schools, primarily serving a predominantly Hispanic student population with high rates of economic disadvantage.

The standout schools in the district include Alta Vista Early College High School, which is the highest-ranked school in the district and one of the top high schools in the state, as well as Mesquite Elementary and Anthony Elementary, which are the top-performing elementary schools in the district. These schools demonstrate the potential for excellence within the district, despite the overall economic challenges faced by the community.

While the district as a whole faces equity concerns due to the high rates of poverty and Hispanic student enrollment, the data also reveals opportunities for the district to learn from its highest-performing schools and implement best practices to support student success across the system. The district's focus on early childhood education, with several pre-K centers, is a positive sign and suggests a commitment to laying a strong foundation for student learning and development.