✨ Thrive Thursday Spotlight ✨
This Thrive Thursday, we’re digging into the story of an educator who helps students grow in every sense of the word!
Jessica Hardy is an exceptional 4th grade teacher at Valley View Elementary who consistently goes above and beyond for our students and school community. As the Garden Club sponsor, she dedicates countless hours to keeping the school garden blooming and beautiful, creating meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that connect gardening to academics, social-emotional learning, and inclusive practices.
Ms. Hardy has written multiple grants to sustain and expand the garden program and has attended national conferences to deepen her expertise in integrating outdoor learning with academic standards. Her commitment ensures students benefit from innovative, research-based opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.
In addition to her work in the classroom and garden, Ms. Hardy serves as the school’s Academic Team Lead and co-sponsors the Student Leadership Team, empowering students to grow as both scholars and leaders.
Ms. Hardy truly embodies the spirit of THRIVE, making a lasting impact at Valley View Elementary and helping it continue to blossom into a place where every student can thrive. 🌻
This Thrive Thursday, we’re digging into the story of an educator who helps students grow in every sense of the word!
Jessica Hardy is an exceptional 4th grade teacher at Valley View Elementary who consistently goes above and beyond for our students and school community. As the Garden Club sponsor, she dedicates countless hours to keeping the school garden blooming and beautiful, creating meaningful, hands-on learning experiences that connect gardening to academics, social-emotional learning, and inclusive practices.
Ms. Hardy has written multiple grants to sustain and expand the garden program and has attended national conferences to deepen her expertise in integrating outdoor learning with academic standards. Her commitment ensures students benefit from innovative, research-based opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom.
In addition to her work in the classroom and garden, Ms. Hardy serves as the school’s Academic Team Lead and co-sponsors the Student Leadership Team, empowering students to grow as both scholars and leaders.
Ms. Hardy truly embodies the spirit of THRIVE, making a lasting impact at Valley View Elementary and helping it continue to blossom into a place where every student can thrive. 🌻
Physics Summer Camp at New Mexico State University
The Department of Physics will host a summer camp in Gardiner Hall during the week of June 22-26th. The program will run from 9:00 am-4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
Students will explore various physics topics and sciences, including mechanics, electricity and magnetism, light, chemistry, and astronomy. Exploration of these topics will include demonstrations of the principles involved, as well as an explanation of why and how they work the way they do. This program introduces students to the physics and engineering physics programs at NMSU.
The camp is free to all participants, and participants must have completed 9th grade and not yet graduated from high school. Lunch and snacks will be provided!
Lunch and snacks will be provided. Students must register by Thursday, April 16, 2026. Scan the QR Code on the flyer or click the registration link below.
Register here: https://stemcenter.nmsu.edu/camps/stem-camps.html
The Department of Physics will host a summer camp in Gardiner Hall during the week of June 22-26th. The program will run from 9:00 am-4:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
Students will explore various physics topics and sciences, including mechanics, electricity and magnetism, light, chemistry, and astronomy. Exploration of these topics will include demonstrations of the principles involved, as well as an explanation of why and how they work the way they do. This program introduces students to the physics and engineering physics programs at NMSU.
The camp is free to all participants, and participants must have completed 9th grade and not yet graduated from high school. Lunch and snacks will be provided!
Lunch and snacks will be provided. Students must register by Thursday, April 16, 2026. Scan the QR Code on the flyer or click the registration link below.
Register here: https://stemcenter.nmsu.edu/camps/stem-camps.html
We want you! Please help us select the next principal at Organ Mountain High School. Scan the code to access a survey to give your feedback, or click on this link: https://my.thoughtexchange.com/scroll/551981734/welcome You can also submit a request to be part of the interview committee by emailing Lily Aranda, laranda1@lcps.net. The deadline to submit feedback or a committee request is Thursday, March 26.
DEADLINE REMINDER!
Attention graduating seniors: Scholarship applications must be submitted by Wednesday, April 1st, 2026.
The LCPS Foundation continues to support high school graduates by offering scholarship opportunities to help cover the cost of tuition.
Only one application is required to be considered for all available scholarships however, students are only eligible to receive one scholarship. Applicants must provide two references, upload the most recent transcript, respond to questions about their school and community involvement, and submit an essay.
Awards range from $250-$2,000. The recipients of the scholarship awards will be announced on April 17th, 2026. Awards will then be presented to students during Senior Awards Assemblies. These scholarships are made possible through endowments and other funds through the LCPS Foundation, with the generosity of numerous community donors who sponsor dedicated scholarship funds.
For a list of available scholarships and to apply, please visit lcpsf.org
Don't miss your chance to apply!
For questions, contact Gena Bermudez, Executive Director of the LCPS Foundation at director@lcpsf.org
Attention graduating seniors: Scholarship applications must be submitted by Wednesday, April 1st, 2026.
The LCPS Foundation continues to support high school graduates by offering scholarship opportunities to help cover the cost of tuition.
Only one application is required to be considered for all available scholarships however, students are only eligible to receive one scholarship. Applicants must provide two references, upload the most recent transcript, respond to questions about their school and community involvement, and submit an essay.
Awards range from $250-$2,000. The recipients of the scholarship awards will be announced on April 17th, 2026. Awards will then be presented to students during Senior Awards Assemblies. These scholarships are made possible through endowments and other funds through the LCPS Foundation, with the generosity of numerous community donors who sponsor dedicated scholarship funds.
For a list of available scholarships and to apply, please visit lcpsf.org
Don't miss your chance to apply!
For questions, contact Gena Bermudez, Executive Director of the LCPS Foundation at director@lcpsf.org
You're invited to a powerful and engaging presentation on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) by Nick Chignoli, at the La Vida Project - Innovative Youth Programs & Resource Center in the HOK room, 118 N Main St, Las Cruces, NM 88001.
The presentation will take place this Wednesday, March 25, from 5:30pm-7:30pm. Please scan the QR code on the flyer to register.
ACEs include experiences such as physical or emotional abuse, witnessing domestic violence, or growing up with a parent who struggles with substance use or mental health. These experiences can have a deep and lasting impact on a child’s development but with knowledge, connection, and support, healing is possible.
This presentation is for parents, caregivers, teachers, neighbors, and anyone who is interested in building a community where everyone can thrive.
Join us to:
• Understand what ACEs are
• Learn how early experiences affect lifelong health
• Discover tools for healing, support, and prevention
• Empower yourself and others to create safer, more resilient families
Please see the attached flyer for full details, and feel free to invite a friend, coworker, or community partner.
We hope to see you there!
Today at Monte Vista Elementary, teachers and staff hosted an awesome Buddy Kickball Game, bringing together students from across 5th grade and our special education program.
The game was all about teamwork, encouragement, and having fun together. We’re so proud of all our students for their effort and great sportsmanship!
Brought to you by LCPS.TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C44iWPV0_n4
The game was all about teamwork, encouragement, and having fun together. We’re so proud of all our students for their effort and great sportsmanship!
Brought to you by LCPS.TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C44iWPV0_n4
Students in the Academic Career Experience (ACE) program recently participated in the Dress for Success event, where they were given a budget of $130 to shop for professional clothing at Dillard’s.
This opportunity allowed students to select attire that will help them feel confident and prepared for future academic and career opportunities.
The event was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Nusenda Credit Union and the continued support of Dillard’s and the Las Cruces Public Schools Foundation, whose partnership helped make this experience a success for our students.
Congratulations to Cali Cervantez from Arrowhead Park Early College High School for being named CTE Student of the Week!
With a 4.39 GPA, Cali ranks among the top 10 students in her class, an achievement she considers her greatest in high school. She serves as Historian for both Women in STEM and Business, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to her school community.
Cali plans to pursue a career in Human Resources and is gaining valuable real-world experience through her internship at the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office HR department. Last semester, she mastered a new employee management software and trained staff on its use, showcasing her initiative, professionalism, and strong communication skills.
We’re proud of you, Cali!
Graphic Credit: Ryan Diaz
With a 4.39 GPA, Cali ranks among the top 10 students in her class, an achievement she considers her greatest in high school. She serves as Historian for both Women in STEM and Business, demonstrating her leadership and commitment to her school community.
Cali plans to pursue a career in Human Resources and is gaining valuable real-world experience through her internship at the Third Judicial District Attorney’s Office HR department. Last semester, she mastered a new employee management software and trained staff on its use, showcasing her initiative, professionalism, and strong communication skills.
We’re proud of you, Cali!
Graphic Credit: Ryan Diaz
Mrs. Sedillo’s New Mexico Pre-K class at Conlee had the perfect way to wrap up their week of learning all about traffic and transportation!
After exploring road signs, traffic rules, and how vehicles move through our community, students brought their own creative “cars” to school for a fun drive-in movie experience.
It was the perfect way to celebrate their learning and kick off Spring Break with lots of smiles and imagination.
Way to go, little Conlee Colts , we love seeing learning come to life in such fun ways!
After exploring road signs, traffic rules, and how vehicles move through our community, students brought their own creative “cars” to school for a fun drive-in movie experience.
It was the perfect way to celebrate their learning and kick off Spring Break with lots of smiles and imagination.
Way to go, little Conlee Colts , we love seeing learning come to life in such fun ways!
Congrats to Leah Melero, our LCPS Athlete of the Week from Organ Mountain HS! The senior Knights third baseman recently signed with Northeast Nebraska.
Her advice: “Be dedicated and strive to be better than you were yesterday.”
Her advice: “Be dedicated and strive to be better than you were yesterday.”
Congrats to Brennan McNiece, our LCPS Athlete of the Week from Organ Mountain HS! The senior Knights pitcher recently signed with Iowa Western.
His advice: “It’s not just about practice, it’s the work you put in on your own that makes the difference.”
His advice: “It’s not just about practice, it’s the work you put in on your own that makes the difference.”
As students and staff head towards Spring Break, Superintendent Ignacio Ruiz and the Bulldawg Broadcast crew at Las Cruces High School would like to wish you a happy, safe and restful week.
See you back at school March 23!
Produced by LCHS Bulldawg Broadcast: https://youtu.be/_2Pcmacwkpo
See you back at school March 23!
Produced by LCHS Bulldawg Broadcast: https://youtu.be/_2Pcmacwkpo
Mientras estudiantes y personal se preparan para el receso de primavera, el superintendente Ignacio Ruiz y el equipo de Bulldawg Broadcast de Las Cruces High School desean desearles una semana feliz, segura y llena de descanso.
¡Nos vemos de regreso en la escuela el 23 de marzo!
Producción de LCHS Bulldawg Broadcast: https://youtu.be/y5nL9UgOj9M
¡Nos vemos de regreso en la escuela el 23 de marzo!
Producción de LCHS Bulldawg Broadcast: https://youtu.be/y5nL9UgOj9M
The NMSU College of Health, Education, and Social Transformation continues to elevate our partnerships with LCPS, leading to expanded opportunities for students.
On March 11th, the LCPS Community Schools team joined our Executive Council to discuss impactful Community School internships, after-school programs, and site-based support designed to support student success!
On March 11th, the LCPS Community Schools team joined our Executive Council to discuss impactful Community School internships, after-school programs, and site-based support designed to support student success!
A big congratulations to Florence from Valley View Elementary for qualifying for the El Paso Regional Spelling Bee Finals hosted by the El Paso Independent School District Foundation!
Out of 85 students from West Texas and Southern New Mexico, only 42 advanced and Florence is one of them. You’ve made the Bullpups proud! Way to represent Valley View and LCPS!
Florence will compete in the El Paso Regional Spelling Bee Finals on March 27 at Andress High School in El Paso.
We wish you the very best of luck, Florence!
Out of 85 students from West Texas and Southern New Mexico, only 42 advanced and Florence is one of them. You’ve made the Bullpups proud! Way to represent Valley View and LCPS!
Florence will compete in the El Paso Regional Spelling Bee Finals on March 27 at Andress High School in El Paso.
We wish you the very best of luck, Florence!
🌟 Thrive Thursday Spotlight: Kasey Peña 🌟
At Lynn Community Middle School, Kasey Peña is helping ensure our school is truly a place where all learners thrive.
In her dual role as a math teacher and instructional interventionist, Ms. Peña works tirelessly to support students where they need it most. She organizes and leads multiple targeted intervention groups in both reading and math, giving students the focused instruction and encouragement they need to grow in confidence and achievement.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Peña’s leadership makes an impact across campus. As Student Council advisor and a valued member of the school leadership team, she elevates student voice while also inspiring colleagues to continually strengthen their instructional practice. Her thoughtful ideas, and collaborative spirit help move the entire Lynn Community Middle School community forward.
Ms. Peña's commitment to students reflects the very best of what Lynn stands for—creating opportunities and helping every learner thrive.
Because when it comes to supporting students and solving challenges, Ms. Peña always knows how to add value and multiply success! ➕✖️📚
At Lynn Community Middle School, Kasey Peña is helping ensure our school is truly a place where all learners thrive.
In her dual role as a math teacher and instructional interventionist, Ms. Peña works tirelessly to support students where they need it most. She organizes and leads multiple targeted intervention groups in both reading and math, giving students the focused instruction and encouragement they need to grow in confidence and achievement.
Beyond the classroom, Ms. Peña’s leadership makes an impact across campus. As Student Council advisor and a valued member of the school leadership team, she elevates student voice while also inspiring colleagues to continually strengthen their instructional practice. Her thoughtful ideas, and collaborative spirit help move the entire Lynn Community Middle School community forward.
Ms. Peña's commitment to students reflects the very best of what Lynn stands for—creating opportunities and helping every learner thrive.
Because when it comes to supporting students and solving challenges, Ms. Peña always knows how to add value and multiply success! ➕✖️📚
⚽ Kick for a Cause at the Copa Esperanza 3v3 Soccer Tournament! ⚽
Gather your friends and lace up your cleats for a fun morning of soccer while supporting a great cause. The Copa Esperanza 3v3 Soccer Tournament will benefit McKinney-Vento students in Las Cruces, helping support youth experiencing housing instability.
📅 When: Saturday, March 14
⏰ Time: 9:00 a.m. – Noon
📍 Where: High Noon Soccer Complex
💲 Team Fee: $45 per team (3–4 players)
🍧 Bonus: Kona Ice and prizes will be available!
🗓 Deadline to sign up: EXTENDED TO MARCH 13
💳 Payment: Zelle to StudentAffairs@bcomNM.org
📩 Questions? Contact Sam Glaser at Samuel.Glaser@Burrell.edu
Bring your team, enjoy some soccer, and help make a difference for students in our community. ⚽💙
Gather your friends and lace up your cleats for a fun morning of soccer while supporting a great cause. The Copa Esperanza 3v3 Soccer Tournament will benefit McKinney-Vento students in Las Cruces, helping support youth experiencing housing instability.
📅 When: Saturday, March 14
⏰ Time: 9:00 a.m. – Noon
📍 Where: High Noon Soccer Complex
💲 Team Fee: $45 per team (3–4 players)
🍧 Bonus: Kona Ice and prizes will be available!
🗓 Deadline to sign up: EXTENDED TO MARCH 13
💳 Payment: Zelle to StudentAffairs@bcomNM.org
📩 Questions? Contact Sam Glaser at Samuel.Glaser@Burrell.edu
Bring your team, enjoy some soccer, and help make a difference for students in our community. ⚽💙
You're invited to a powerful and engaging presentation on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) by Lorena Valencia, Master SW Intern at the 100% Family Center. The presentation will be in Spanish, and it will take place this Thursday March 12th 12pm-1pm via Zoom.
ACEs include experiences such as physical or emotional abuse, witnessing domestic violence, or growing up with a parent who struggles with substance use or mental health. These experiences can have a deep and lasting impact on a child’s development but with knowledge, connection, and support, healing is possible.
This presentation is for parents, caregivers, teachers, neighbors, and anyone who is interested in building a community where everyone can thrive.
Join us to:
✅ Understand what ACEs are
✅ Learn how early experiences affect lifelong health
✅ Discover tools for healing, support, and prevention
✅ Empower yourself and others to create safer, more resilient families
Please see the attached flyer for full details, and feel free to invite a friend, coworker, or community partner.
We hope to see you there!
ACEs include experiences such as physical or emotional abuse, witnessing domestic violence, or growing up with a parent who struggles with substance use or mental health. These experiences can have a deep and lasting impact on a child’s development but with knowledge, connection, and support, healing is possible.
This presentation is for parents, caregivers, teachers, neighbors, and anyone who is interested in building a community where everyone can thrive.
Join us to:
✅ Understand what ACEs are
✅ Learn how early experiences affect lifelong health
✅ Discover tools for healing, support, and prevention
✅ Empower yourself and others to create safer, more resilient families
Please see the attached flyer for full details, and feel free to invite a friend, coworker, or community partner.
We hope to see you there!
It’s Personal Best Wednesday!
This week, we’re hearing from some of the athletes on the Organ Mountain High School Track & Field team! From personal goals for the season to the team’s focus on qualifying for the state championships, these athletes are locked in and ready to compete.
You’ll also hear about the team’s pre-meet superstitions, rituals, and what helps them get in the right mindset before stepping onto the track.
Produced by LCPS.TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4opfS-28Azw
This week, we’re hearing from some of the athletes on the Organ Mountain High School Track & Field team! From personal goals for the season to the team’s focus on qualifying for the state championships, these athletes are locked in and ready to compete.
You’ll also hear about the team’s pre-meet superstitions, rituals, and what helps them get in the right mindset before stepping onto the track.
Produced by LCPS.TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4opfS-28Azw
Unified Therapeutic Recreation Sweetheart Dance 2026
The Unified Therapeutic Recreation Sweetheart Dance brought together middle and high school students from special programs, creating a shared space for connection, celebration, and fun.
Throughout the school year, students work on developing their socialization skills, and events like this give them a fun and welcoming environment to practice those skills in a real-world setting.
For many of the students, the moment they walk into the room and hear the music playing, their faces light up. Even students who communicate differently can connect and express themselves through music, movement, and the comfort of familiar faces.
This dance is more than just a party it’s a social experience that promotes confidence, participation, and joy in recreation and leisure activities.
A big thank you to all of our wonderful special education teachers and staff, and to Sierra Middle School for hosting the event.
Produced by LCPS.TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3T6XCiy7x8
The Unified Therapeutic Recreation Sweetheart Dance brought together middle and high school students from special programs, creating a shared space for connection, celebration, and fun.
Throughout the school year, students work on developing their socialization skills, and events like this give them a fun and welcoming environment to practice those skills in a real-world setting.
For many of the students, the moment they walk into the room and hear the music playing, their faces light up. Even students who communicate differently can connect and express themselves through music, movement, and the comfort of familiar faces.
This dance is more than just a party it’s a social experience that promotes confidence, participation, and joy in recreation and leisure activities.
A big thank you to all of our wonderful special education teachers and staff, and to Sierra Middle School for hosting the event.
Produced by LCPS.TV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3T6XCiy7x8
