White Sands School has been honored as a 2024 National Blue Ribbon School, recognized for its exemplary performance and dedication to closing achievement gaps. This prestigious award highlights the school’s success as one of the highest-performing institutions in New Mexico based on state assessments.
Principal James Dickerson emphasized the school’s focus on personalized learning, with students showing significant growth through programs like i-Ready in reading and math. The school serves pre-kindergarten to 8th-grade students and is part of the Las Cruces Public School system, located within the White Sands Missile Range.
In addition to its strong academic focus, White Sands School offers a wide range of programs, including a STEM after-school initiative in collaboration with New Mexico State University, as well as art electives, social-emotional learning, and various sports activities. The dedication of the teachers plays a key role in the school's success.
A unique aspect of the school is its diverse student body, with 35% comprising children of active-duty military personnel stationed at White Sands Missile Range. The remaining students are children of employees working at the range, creating a supportive and engaged community.
Dickerson highlighted the importance of strong collaboration between the school, parents, and teachers in fostering student success. He also praised the local military community for their continuous support, noting their active involvement in school events and programs, including assistance from the Space Force and the White Sands Missile Range Fire Department.
This recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School celebrates White Sands School’s commitment to educational excellence and its role in fostering a thriving, supportive environment for all students.
