Adrianna Maria Garcia, LCPS School Board Dist. 3 candidate

1. What do you see as the top infrastructure needs for the district?
The top infrastructure needs for our district include ensuring that our schools are equipped with modern technology, updated facilities, and sufficient support services for students' physical and mental health. Access to broadband networks is another critical issue, something we saw firsthand during COVID-19 when many students were left behind in remote learning simply because they lacked reliable internet access at home. In a state like New Mexico, where rural communities are widespread, bridging the digital divide is just as important as updating classrooms. We must prioritize technology access to ensure every student has equal opportunities to learn, no matter where they live.

2. What would you do to help make sure each campus is safe for kids to go to school?
Ensuring the safety of our students is paramount. I would support improving both physical security measures such as security cameras and well-trained staff, and fostering a school culture of respect, inclusivity, and accountability. Partnering with local law enforcement and mental health professionals to address potential threats proactively and ensure quick responses to any incidents is also a priority. In addition, I believe we must include social media safety and awareness trainings for both students and teachers. By educating our school communities on responsible online behavior and the risks of digital platforms, we can reduce conflicts that often begin online and carry over into our schools.

3. What policies or programs would you support to address bullying and cyberbullying in the district?
I would support a comprehensive anti-bullying program that emphasizes education, prevention, and accountability. This includes peer mentoring programs, restorative justice approaches, and clear reporting systems so students feel safe coming forward. Adding mandatory social media safety and awareness training for both students and staff would also help. Research has shown how serious the issue is. A 2019 study by the Cyberbullying Research Center found that 37 percent of middle and high school students reported being cyberbullied at least once in their lifetime. These numbers highlight the urgency of addressing the problem with district-wide policies that protect students.

4. What are some new classes or changes to curriculum that you would like to see?
I would advocate for introducing financial literacy as a required course across all grade levels because knowledge is power. Every student deserves to leave school not only with academic knowledge, but with the skills to navigate real-life challenges confidently. Children are the leaders of our future, and an investment in their education and skill-building is an investment in the future of our community and our state. In New Mexico, where nearly one in five people live in poverty, teaching students how to budget, save, invest, and make informed financial decisions can change the trajectory of their lives. By equipping students with these tools, we are not only preparing them for personal success, but also giving them the opportunity to lift their families and communities. Financial literacy, combined with enhanced career and technical education options aligned with New Mexico’s growing industries, will inspire students to dream bigger, think creatively, and pursue opportunities they might have once thought out of reach.

5. What are some of your top priorities when it comes to creating a budget?
My top priorities for the budget would include ensuring every student, regardless of income level, has access to the resources they need to succeed, supporting teachers so they can focus on teaching, and investing in programs that strengthen the whole child academically, emotionally, and socially. I believe no child should have to worry about basic needs, such as food, and no child should ever feel as though hunger, lack of supplies, or limited opportunities can stand in the way of their potential. When we invest in our students, we are investing in our future, giving them the tools to thrive, dream, and lead. Every dollar should reflect our commitment to helping each child reach their fullest potential.

6. Can you provide us with a quick bio which includes your age and current job or job prior to taking office?
My name is Adrianna Garcia and I am 35 years old. I am a proud mother and work in marketing as a senior brand engagement strategist, where I help organizations develop strong connections with their communities and audiences. I graduated from New Mexico State University in 2015 with a bachelor’s degree in government, which has given me a deep understanding of policy, civic engagement, and how systems work. I am also certified by the International Sports Sciences Association as a nutritionist and by the US Institute of Diplomacy and Human Rights as a human rights consultant, equipping me with knowledge in health, wellness, and advocacy. My experiences as a mother, professional, and community advocate give me a unique perspective and dedication that I will bring to the school board. I am committed to working tirelessly to empower our students and ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their fullest potential.

7. Why are you running?
I am running because I believe every child in Las Cruces deserves access to a safe, equitable, and high-quality education. As a mother and community member, I have seen the gaps that exist in our system, from lack of access to resources to outdated curriculum. I want to ensure our schools are preparing students not just to graduate, but to thrive in life. I also believe our community needs fresh minds on the school board that are in touch with the needs of our children and families and ready to bring new ideas and energy to support every student.

8. What do you think are the biggest challenges facing Las Cruces Public Schools?
Some of the biggest challenges include addressing poverty and food insecurity among students, updating school infrastructure, retaining high-quality teachers and ensuring they have fair pay and the resources they need so they are not paying out of pocket, and closing the digital divide. Bullying and mental health concerns also remain ongoing issues that must be addressed with care, compassion, and a focus on empowering every student to succeed.

9. What do you hope to do to address these issues?
To address these challenges, I would advocate for programs that ensure students can focus on learning without worrying about basic needs, including access to food when needed, as well as more investment in financial literacy and life-skills curriculum, expanding broadband access, and ensuring classrooms have up-to-date technology. I would also push for better teacher support, including fair pay and professional development opportunities, to help with retention. By focusing on equity, safety, and essential skills, I believe we can create stronger schools that serve every student in Las Cruces. Moreover, I believe no child should go without one of the most basic human needs: food. No child should have to worry about whether they have money in their lunch account or if they are going to be bullied for not having food or other necessary items. Every student deserves to walk into school ready to learn, grow, and thrive, and I am committed to helping make that a reality.