• Shout out to our Student Advisor, Alexa of Organ Mountain High School, for her outstanding leadership and her work with the Las Cruces Public Schools Board of Education as a student representative for our high schools at LCPS!
• Thank you to Aiden from Tombaugh Elementary for leading the Pledge of Allegiance and the Salute to the State Flag in both English and Spanish during the School Board of Education meeting this week.
• Thank you to the Centennial Chamber Choir, under the direction of Jenna Batista, for their wonderful performance Tuesday night of a Canadian folk song from Quebec, arranged by Donald Patriquin.
• Congratulations to Karin Hite, Principal of Sonoma Elementary, on being recognized as the 2025 National Education Association New Mexico Administrator of the Year. This honor reflects decades of leadership, dedication, and heart. Principal Hite was proudly nominated by Irma Valdespino, President of CSEC-LC. Thank you for more than 30 years of service. Your leadership continues to inspire the staff, students, and families you serve.
• We’d like to wish a happy retirement to Cynthia Donnelly, Chief of Human Resources at Las Cruces Public Schools, and thank her for her dedication and leadership from 2020–2026. Jesse Perrio, who has stepped in to lead HR on an interim basis, shared that since joining the team five years ago, Cindy has been his colleague, role model, leader, and greatest supporter.
This game will be livestreamed exclusively on LCPS.TV: https://youtube.com/live/7ZQ_-Q8yPVw?feature=share
Get your tickets today!
Organ Mountain High School is proud to partner with Parents Reaching Out to provide free family education and support for students with disabilities and their families.
These sessions are part of OMHS’s Spring 2026 Transition Initiative to help families understand services, supports, and post-school pathways. All families in the area are welcome, including middle and elementary school families who want to begin preparing early.
The next session will be held on Wednesday, Jan. 28 from 6pm-7pm at Organ Mountain High School.
You can register here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/q6yxwkz or scan the QR Code on the flyer.
If you have questions or would like to share ideas for future sessions, please contact Sarah Mata-Espinosa (smataespinosa@lcps.net) or Rachel Polk (rpolk@lcps.net).
Born and raised in Philadelphia, Ed Frank has dedicated his life to education. He earned his B.S. in Education with a major in mathematics from West Chester University in 1965 and later completed graduate studies through the National Science Foundation at Yeshiva University, Lake Forest College, Rutgers University, and the Illinois Institute of Technology, where he earned his M.S.T. in Mathematics.
Mr. Frank spent 39 years in the classroom before retiring in 2005 - teaching in New York, California, and New Jersey before settling into a 28-year tenure in the Lower Merion Schools in Pennsylvania, primarily at Harriton High School. Even after retiring, he continued teaching for four additional years in Washington Township, NJ.
Ed and his wife Sandra chose Las Cruces as their retirement home to be near their daughter, escape the harsh winters, and join the vibrant local tennis community.
“My proudest moment as a school board member was supporting former LCPS Board President Maria Flores in bringing a student voice to the dais,” Mr. Frank says. “Ensuring our students have a seat at the table stands above the rest.”
He ran for the board because he firmly believes that quality public education opens doors to economic opportunity and enhances students’ well-being. His mission is simple: support the people doing the hard work in our classrooms.
When he’s not serving LCPS, Mr. Frank enjoys tennis, cheering for all the Philadelphia teams, and—most of all—spending time with family.
Thank you, Mr. Frank, for your service to the students, staff and families of Las Cruces Public Schools!
Jayden is a sophomore who plays beyond his years. Averaging 18 points and 8 rebounds per game, he brings a winning mindset every time he steps on the floor. He consistently makes the right plays to elevate his teammates, plays with great efficiency, and finishes strong.
Sofia is a senior guard for the Bulldawgs and one of the most electrifying players in the state. Averaging 12 points, 5 rebounds, 5 steals, and 3 assists per game, she impacts the game in every way, scoring in transition and locking down top opponents.
At Camino Real Middle School, Deborah Soffera wears more hats than most—and somehow makes it all look effortless. Not only is she a dedicated 6th grade social studies teacher, she also leads the Esports team, guides the chess club, and coaches mock trial. If there’s a student opportunity happening on campus, chances are Ms. Soffera is behind it.
Her passion for Esports and chess started at home, learning side-by-side with her kids. Today, chess is a full-on family favorite. She’s also spent the last four years growing Camino’s mock trial program, giving students hands-on experiences that sharpen their critical thinking and confidence.
A proud military brat who eventually settled in Alamogordo, Ms. Soffera earned her master’s degree in education from New Mexico State University. When she’s not busy inspiring students, she’s cheering on her four children at soccer tournaments, camping, or curled up with a good book and a cup of coffee.
✨ Fun fact: Her home is lovingly known as the Soffera Circus—a lively mix of kids, pets, and nonstop activity.
Camino is a stronger, brighter community because of Ms. Soffera’s energy, creativity, and dedication. Thank you for helping our students thrive! 💜✨
You’re invited to Impact 2026, a FREE educator conference happening February 21, 2026, at Arrowhead Park Early College High School.
From PreK–12 and across all content areas, Impact 2026 brings educators together to share real classroom practices, collaborate, and elevate instruction rooted in Challenge, Support, and Equity.
Impact26 highlights sessions that center on:
• Practical strategies that challenge students academically
• Systems of support that meet diverse learner needs
• Equity-centered approaches that uplift every student and community
Together, we can amplify what works, strengthen our practice, and create a lasting impact for LCPS students and their families.
Click here to learn more and reserve your free ticket:
https://impact26amplifyingbestpract.sched.com/about
Today, we popped in to spotlight Melissa Leyva, Assistant Director of Information Operations, who plays a vital role in keeping Las Cruces Public Schools connected, accurate, and running smoothly.
Melissa is part of a dedicated team of three responsible for maintaining the district’s student information system, Synergy. Their work ensures data accuracy that supports student safety, daily school functionality, and essential state reporting.
When asked what she enjoys most about her role, Melissa shared that it’s the opportunity to work alongside staff in both school sites and administration to create a collaborative network focused on keeping information accurate and reliable. That commitment to connection doesn’t stop at the office. Melissa is also known for jumping into local community Facebook groups to help answer school-related questions and point families to the right resources, ensuring parents feel supported and informed.
And while Melissa may spend much of her day buried in data, she never loses sight of the people around her. She goes the extra mile to help her coworkers thrive, finding small but meaningful ways to lift morale and bring smiles to the workplace. One recent example? Celebrating National Sticker Day on January 14 by surprising her team with stickers—proof that sometimes the little things make the biggest impact.
Thank you, Melissa, for your dedication, care, and positivity. Because of team members like you, LCPS continues to thrive.
Update: Early Dismissal – Mesilla Elementary School
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Mesilla Elementary School will have an early dismissal today due to a reported gas odor in the building.
All students were safely evacuated and are currently being supervised by school staff at the Mesilla Community Center, located at 2251 Calle De Santiago.
Parents and guardians may pick up their child at the Mesilla Community Center at this time. Please remember to bring your photo ID.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we continue to prioritize the safety of our students and staff.
Actualización: Salida más temprano – Mesilla Elementary School
Estimados padres y tutores:
Los estudiantes de Mesilla Elementary School saldrán más temprano el día de hoy debido a que se reportó un olor a gas en el edificio.
Todos los estudiantes fueron evacuados de forma segura y actualmente están bajo la supervisión del personal escolar en el Centro Comunitario de Mesilla, ubicado en 2251 Calle de Santiago.
Los padres y tutores pueden recoger a sus hijos en el Centro Comunitario de Mesilla en este momento. Por favor, recuerden llevar su identificación con fotografía.
Gracias por su paciencia y cooperación, nuestra prioridad es la seguridad de los estudiantes y del personal.
Important Safety Update: Temporary Evacuation at Mesilla Elementary
Dear Parents and Guardians,
Mesilla Elementary School has temporarily evacuated the building due to a reported gas odor. Students are safe, and school staff are working closely with the Mesilla Fire Department to investigate and address the situation.
All students have been escorted to the Mesilla Community Center, located at 2251 Calle De Santiago, where they are being supervised by school staff.
Parents who wish to pick up their child at the community center may do so at this time. Please remember to bring your photo ID. We will notify families if an early release becomes necessary and will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available.
Thank you for your patience and cooperation as we prioritize student safety.
Estimados padres y tutores:
Mesilla Elementary School ha evacuado temporalmente a las personas del edificio debido a que se reportó un olor a gas. Los estudiantes están a salvo y el personal del centro está trabajando estrechamente con el Departamento de Bomberos de Mesilla para investigar y abordar la situación.
Todos los estudiantes han sido escoltados al Centro Comunitario de Mesilla, ubicado en 2251 Calle de Santiago, donde los estudiantes están bajo la supervisión del personal de la escuela.
Los padres que deseen recoger a sus hijos en el Centro Comunitario pueden hacerlo en este momento. Notificaremos a las familias si fuese necesario que los recojan más temprano de la hora acostumbrada, les seguiremos proporcionando actualizaciones a medida que haya más información disponible.
Gracias por su paciencia y cooperación nuestra prioridad es la seguridad de los estudiantes.
Meet the Arrowhead Robotics Team! This team has a strong history of competing together in a variety of competitions.
This photo is from the BEST tournament on October 18 at NMSU. Under the guidance of coaches Travis Woodard and Laurie Dadd, the team earned first place in the Marketing Presentation category.
Today, we spotlight this innovative team for thinking outside of the box. Way to go, Arrowhead Robotics Club!
Girls Can 2026! For 6th Grade Girls - Save the Date!
About Girls Can!
The American Association of University Women-Las Cruces Branch presents Girls Can! This is a Career Exploration Program for all Dona Ana County 6th grade girls! The program provides career exploration through three 50-minute, hands-on workshops led by local professional women. Career areas include the arts, medicine, science, business, vocational careers, and more.
• Each participant receives a backpack with a Girls Can! T-shirt and other goodies
• There is no cost to LCPS girls (the $5 tuition is covered)
• LCPS will arrange bus transportation for targeted middle schools
• Breakfast is provided for all attendees
Event Details
Saturday, March 7
8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Doña Ana Community College (DACC) – East Mesa Campus
2800 Sonoma Ranch Blvd., Las Cruces, NM 88011
Registration opens February 3, 2026. Save the date and stay tuned as registration links will be shared in an upcoming communication.
It’s Take it to the Net Friday!
LCPS.TV chats with the Centennial Hawks boys’ and girls’ basketball teams.
Find out what players listen to before a big game, see how the teams get hyped, and discover who might become a coach one day.
Watch here: https://youtu.be/x_uAL8M1fGI
Tracen is a senior on the Hawks’ basketball team, averaging 12 points, 3.4 rebounds, 2 deflections, and 1 steal per game, along with a 70% free throw percentage. Known as a great teammate and leader, Tracen consistently puts his team’s success first and makes a positive impact both on and off the court.
Congratulations to Alanna Perrault, our LCPS Athlete of the Week from Centennial High School!
Alanna is a senior and standout member of the Hawks’ basketball team, averaging 10.1 points and 2.4 rebounds per game this season. Known for her strong work ethic both on and off the court, Alanna’s dedication has earned her two scholarship offers in basketball as she prepares to continue her athletic and academic career at the next level.
This Thrive Thursday, we’re shining the headlights on two behind-the-scenes heroes who keep Las Cruces Public Schools rolling smoothly every day: Ben Serrano and Jean Escobar from our Transportation team.
Together, Ben and Jean are the steady hands on the wheel, coordinating bus routes in partnership with STS New Mexico and managing the LCPS fleet to ensure students and administrators arrive safely and on time. From early morning routes to last-minute adjustments and dozens of field trips, their work is a daily puzzle of logistics, communication, and care for our school community.
Thanks to Ben and Jean, learning doesn’t miss a stop and our district keeps moving forward. 🚍💙
Join us in thanking them for the dedication and teamwork that help LCPS thrive!
