🌟 Thrive Thursday Spotlight🌟

Every day, incredible educators across Las Cruces Public Schools inspire students to dream big and reach higher. One shining example is Kathleen Guitar, Flight Director at the LCPS Challenger Learning Center. With 31 years in education — including 21 years teaching 1st, 5th and 6th grades at East Picacho Elementary and Vista Middle School — Kathleen has spent the last decade known affectionately as Commander Guitar. She believes that “kids need to see it to be it.” Through simulated space missions and hands-on STEM learning, she helps students see themselves in roles they may have never imagined before. Kathleen says her favorite part of the job is watching students who enter the Center with insecurities or self-doubt leave with newfound confidence and a spark for STEM learning. The Challenger Learning Center is an extension of the classroom, where curiosity takes flight and students experience real-world problem solving and teamwork.

Thank you, Commander Guitar, for showing our students that the sky is not the limit!
about 1 hour ago, Kelly Jameson
purple gradient graphic with Thrive Thursday feature

Skip the lines and vote early!

This year’s ballot includes two key items: the General Obligation Bond and the Mill Levy Renewals. Both will fund essential improvements in our schools, from new construction and enhanced security to updated playgrounds and modern learning spaces.

This is more than just a vote, it’s an investment in education, safety and our community’s future.

Our kids. Your choice. Their future.
Learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sppa6FFDpCs

about 16 hours ago, Samantha Lewis
This year’s ballot includes two key items: the General Obligation Bond and the Mill Levy Renewals.
Recordatorio: Cada primer jueves del mes, el equipo de Apoyo Comunitario Bilingüe de LCPS se asocia con el banco de alimentos Roadrunner Food Bank para distribuir comidas a las familias de LCPS frente al Centro de Apoyo Familiar de LCPS, ubicado en 505 S. Main St., Suite 249, Las Cruces, NM 88001.

La próxima distribución de alimentos se llevará a cabo el jueves 6 de noviembre a las 9:00 a.m. en el Centro de Apoyo Familiar de LCPS. Llegue temprano, ya que la distribución se realizará por orden de llegada.

Vea el volante para más detalles.
about 18 hours ago, Samantha Lewis
Cada primer jueves del mes, el equipo de Apoyo Comunitario Bilingüe de LCPS se asocia con el banco de alimentos Roadrunner Food Bank para distribuir comidas a las familias de LCPS frente al Centro de Apoyo Familiar de LCPS
Reminder: Every first Thursday of the month, the LCPS Bilingual Community Outreach team partners with Roadrunner Food Bank to distribute meals to LCPS families in front of the LCPS Family Support Center, located at 505 S. Main St., Suite 249, Las Cruces, NM 88001.

The next food drive will take place on Thursday, November 6, at 9:00 a.m. at the LCPS Family Support Center. Please arrive early, as distribution will operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

See flyer for additional details.
about 18 hours ago, Samantha Lewis
Reminder: Every first Thursday of the month, the LCPS Bilingual Community Outreach team partners with Roadrunner Food Bank to distribute meals to LCPS families in front of the LCPS Family Support Center

Get ready for some high-scoring football action!

You won’t want to miss the #1 Las Cruces Bulldawgs as they take on the #4 Centennial Hawks at the Field of Dreams for the 6A District 3 Championship! The game will be on Halloween night, October 31, at 7:00 PM

It’s a fierce rivalry with playoff stakes on the line! Grab your tickets early!

Can’t make it? Watch live on LCPS.TV: https://youtube.com/live/sDD_51tDXRM?feature=share

about 21 hours ago, Samantha Lewis
You won’t want to miss the #1 Las Cruces Bulldawgs as they take on the #4 Centennial Hawks
Congrats to Dahlia Gonzalez, our LCPS Athlete of the Week from Organ Mountain HS!

A junior soccer player for the Knights, Dahlia’s speed, focus & leadership light up the court. Her advice to younger athletes: “Don’t give up, stay consistent, and believe in yourself.”
1 day ago, Samantha Lewis
Dahlia Gonzalez Athletes of the Week
Congrats to Leah Melero, our LCPS Athlete of the Week from Organ Mountain HS!

A senior volleyball captain with a 4.0 GPA, Leah is known for being humble, hardworking & determined. Her advice to young athletes: “Live in the moment. Forget the past & focus on what’s ahead.”
1 day ago, Samantha Lewis
Leah Melero Athlete of the Week
Parent & Swimmer Meeting Reminder for Swim Team

This is a reminder that we will have a Parent and Swimmer Meeting on Thursday, October 30th at 5:00 PM in the Las Cruces High School Library. This meeting is mandatory for all 8th graders and high school swimmers who are interested in joining the team and did not attend the Zoom meeting last week.

The swim season officially begins on November 3rd, with tryouts scheduled for November 3rd and 4th at the Las Cruces Natatorium from 6:00–7:30 AM.

During the meeting, coaches will review meet dates, practice expectations, and discuss future developments in the swim program. This meeting will ensure swimmers and families have all the necessary information before the season begins. We look forward to seeing everyone there!

For questions, please email Matthew Gormley mgormley@lcps.net.
1 day ago, Samantha Lewis
Parent & Swimmer Meeting Reminder for Swim Team
Congratulations to Lacey Knight, our outstanding CTE Student of the Week representing Las Cruces High School!

As a senior and President of the Las Cruces FFA Chapter, Lacy exemplifies dedication and excellence—maintaining a 3.7 GPA, leading state championship teams, and gaining hands-on experience through her internship at Organ Mountain Equine. We’re proud of her leadership and commitment to success.

Graphic credit: Ryan Diaz, ACE Intern
1 day ago, Samantha Lewis
Congratulations to Lacey Knight, our outstanding CTE Student of the Week representing Las Cruces High School!
Attention Parents! You're invited to an Informational Education Night at Arrowhead Park Early College High School on Wednesday, October 29, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. This community event is open to all families, everyone is welcome!

Come learn how you can support your child’s future! Hear from guest speakers who are experts in engineering, STEM, emerging technologies, and the careers of tomorrow. Discover how technology is shaping all aspects of the job market and yes, there will be PIE!

Presented in collaboration with: New Mexico State University, Doña Ana Community College, and The Bridge of Southern New Mexico.

For more information, please contact: 575-527-9540.
2 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Attention Parents! You're invited to an Informational Education Night at Arrowhead Park Early College High School on October 29, from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
A big congratulations to the Organ Mountain High School Girls Soccer Team for kicking it into high gear and winning the District 3-5A Championship!

Say hello to your 2025–2026 District Champions! Way to go, Knights!
3 days ago, Samantha Lewis
A big congratulations to the Organ Mountain High School Girls Soccer Team for kicking it into high gear and winning the District 3-5A Championship!

Attention Valley View Families:
Join us to meet our principal finalists and provide your input in the selection of our next principal. Details are available in the flyer.

Atención familias de Valley View:
Acompáñenos para conocer a los finalistas para director(a) y compartir su opinión en la selección de nuestro(a) próximo(a) director(a). Los detalles están disponibles en el volante.

6 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Attention Valley View Families:
Attention Valley View Families:
Congratulations to Coach David Jaquez on his recent induction into the Knights of Honor Wall at the Castle!

Thank you for all you have done for the students and athletes of Oñate High School.

Go Knights!
6 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Congratulations to Coach David Jaquez on his recent induction into the Knights of Honor Wall at the Castle!
Go out and support your Centennial Hawks as they battle the Clovis Wildcats tonight at the glorious Field of Dreams. Kickoff is at 7pm.

Get your tickets early: https://www.lcps.net/page/athletics

LCPS.TV will livestream the game: https://youtube.com/live/1Ch8iVZaYno?feature=share
6 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Go out and support your Centennial Hawks as they battle the Clovis Wildcats tonight at the glorious Field of Dreams. Kickoff is at 7pm.

Meet Superintendent Ruiz at 6 p.m. tonight in the Performing Arts Center at Organ Mountain High School for an informative discussion about the district’s goals for the November school bond election.

Parents, students, staff, and Las Cruces community members will have the chance to ask questions and learn more about the Bond and Mill Levy.

7 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Meet Superintendent Ruiz at 6 p.m. in the Performing Arts Center at Organ Mountain High School for an informative discussion about the district’s goals for the November school bond election.
Tonight, your Organ Mountain Knights will play the Hobbs Eagles at the Field of Dreams. Kickoff is at 7pm, don’t miss your chance to support our athletes.

Get your tickets now: https://www.lcps.net/page/athletics

LCPS.TV will livestream the game: https://youtube.com/live/SKkgHgPrCyw?feature=share
7 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Tonight, your Organ Mountain Knights will play the Hobbs Eagles at the Field of Dreams.
Amazing turnout at the LCPS Inaugural Community Wellness Night! This event brought families together for tricks, treats, and important conversations about health and well-being. A big shoutout to our Athletics and PE Departments for leading such an awesome event!
7 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Amazing turnout at the LCPS Inaugural Community Wellness Night!
Amazing turnout at the LCPS Inaugural Community Wellness Night!
Amazing turnout at the LCPS Inaugural Community Wellness Night!
Good luck to all of our Las Cruces Public Schools marching bands as they travel to Rio Rancho this Saturday, October 25th, to compete at the 2nd annual State Marching Band Contest! #thrive575

Many thanks to New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA) and New Mexico Music Educators Association for making this event possible!

2:00pm Royal Knight Regiment - Organ Mountain High School
3:15pm Las Cruces High School Band
3:45pm Mayfield High School Band
4:30pm Centennial High School Band

Skip the lines and get tickets here:
https://gofan.co/event/1653324?schoolId=NMAA
7 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Good luck to all of our Las Cruces Public Schools marching bands as they travel to Rio Rancho this Saturday, October 25th, to compete at the 2nd annual State Marching Band Contest!
Thrive Thursday Spotlight: Efren Aleman, Mesilla Elementary

Meet Efren Aleman, the energetic PE teacher who keeps Mesilla Elementary moving—literally and figuratively! Now in his 14th year of teaching (all at Mesilla Elementary!), Coach Aleman goes the extra mile every single day to support his students and colleagues.

Whether he’s offering a listening ear, stepping in for class coverage, or keeping spirits high on campus, Mr. Aleman is a true team player. He says he’s grateful for the opportunity to motivate students to exercise and to teach them that physical activity is essential for a healthy body and mind. His favorite part of the day? Greeting students each morning with enthusiasm and making sure they know how excited he is to see them and to teach them something new. Mesilla Elementary’s principal calls him a vital part of the school community—and it’s easy to see why!

Thanks for keeping Mesilla in motion, Coach Aleman! You’re truly a class act in PE
7 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Thrive Thursday Spotlight: Efren Aleman, Mesilla Elementary
Join LCPS tonight at 6 p.m. for an overview of the district's goals for the school bond election in November. Parents, students, staff and the Las Cruces community will have an opportunity to interact and ask questions in the live chat section.

Watch livestream here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6zXnRtLPxmI
8 days ago, Samantha Lewis
Superintendent to Host Information Sessions on School Bond Election