Recent high school graduates from Las Cruces Public Schools were recognized and celebrated last week during the 2026 McKinney-Vento Senior Recognition Ceremony. The event welcomed graduates, their families, and community partners to honor the achievements and celebrate students and their plans upon graduation.
The ceremony was held on May 28 at the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico. Margarita Solis, LCPS family liaison, welcomed students and introduced the keynote speakers: Juliette Paez-Pearcy, LCPS family liaison specialist; and Karla Solis-Holguin, LCPS family liaison.
Danyel Trujillo, a 2025 LCPS alumnus who spoke about the experience going through the McKinney-Vento Program and how it has shaped his hope for the future, learning that the hardships in life can be overcome when you surround yourself with people who believe, inspire, and support you.
The next keynote speaker was Rhai Rhai Hodges, a 2026 LCPS graduate who looked upon her peers, all dressed in graduation attire with colors representing every high school in the district. Rhai Rhai spoke about what the McKinney-Vento Program meant to her family and how they provided resources and support.
Rhai Rhai opened up about a time in her high school journey when she couldn’t see herself making it to the finish line and walking during her high school commencement ceremony. During that time, she disenrolled from high school but was met with compassion and support from the family liaisons that encouraged her to go back to school to successfully earn her high school diploma.
All 25 students were recognized and received a senior gift as they continue their higher education and for those entering the workforce. With support from community sponsors, students received a backpack with school supplies, a laptop, and a $50 gift card.
As students were recognized, a video showcased their senior photos alongside their future educational aspirations. Whether pursing nursing, hospitality and tourism management, social work, psychology, welding, radiology, automotive technology, or other fields of study, each graduate is charting a unique path forward.
A big thank you to community sponsors of the McKinney-Vento Program: Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico (CFSNM), Josefa Jiron-Chavez Fund held at CFSNM, BBMS Impact Fund held at CFSNM, Dee and Doris Charitable Fund held at CFSNM, Covarrubias-Aprendamos Foundation, Household Furniture, Desert Rose Cakes by Yesenia, and Heaven's Baked Goods.
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