New Mexico’s unique culture is a product of years of mixing between Hispanic, Native American and European traditions. With the highest percentage of Hispanic Americans, and second highest percentage of Native Americans of any state, students enrolled in New Mexico’s public schools come from a slew of distinct backgrounds.

The best district in the state is Los Alamos Public Schools, a system of seven schools serving Los Alamos and neighboring White Rock. Los Alamos lays claim to a number of achievements, including being rated an “A” school district, and boasts an 87% graduation rate.

Ranking #2 is Logan Municipal Schools, serving Logan, NM. In 2017, Logan Elementary was rated an “A” school.

Third on the list is Rio Rancho Public Schools, a large system of 18 schools based in Rio Rancho, NM. According to the district’s website, its mission is “graduating students who are responsible, ethical, and productive citizens, equipped with a solid foundation for individual success.”

Dora Consolidated Schools, located in Dora, NM, follows at #4. According to Niche.com, students of the district have achieved a 90% graduation rate.

Rounding out the top five is Moriarty-Edgewood School District, consisting of three elementaries, two middle schools, and one high school in its namesake communities. In 2017, the district’s South Mountain Elementary and Edgewood Middle School performed better than over 80% of New Mexico’s schools.

Methodology

The following contributed to the ranking: student performance (math and reading test scores), dropout rates, school funding, and area poverty rates. Data was collected from a total of 9,577 school districts.

Did your district make the list?