Gadsden school district receives national award

Gadsden Independent School District’s (GISD) commitment to boosting student achievement led to an honor from an organization dedicated to elevating education across the country, the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED) said in a news release.

 The Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) presented GISD with its District Leadership Award at the 2023 Making Schools Work Conference in Florida in July. The board “applauded Gadsden’s continuous improvement processes over more than a decade that are helping to transform classroom practices and schools, including student test scores and readiness for college and careers,” NMPED said.

“Gadsden embodies a continuous improvement culture and their students are winners because of that,” said Dr. Gary Wrinkle, SREB director of state and district partnerships. “From the superintendent to campus principals to teachers, what sets them apart is a willingness to examine current practice, seek feedback, learn from it and make adjustments ─ always with the attitude that they can continue to do more to improve student outcomes.” 

“This district is a shining example of how consistency, perseverance and a commitment to change can transform education and school culture at all levels," said NMPED Secretary Arsenio Romero.

Representatives from SREB, which covers 16 states, visited GISD, reviewed its career pathways, curriculum and instruction and provided strategic planning as the district has met its bold goals, the news release said.

“GISD is humbled to receive this national recognition and proud the spotlight of success is shining on our students, teachers, staff, administrators and parents,” said Nicholas Wohlgemuth, director of Gadsden’s secondary schools. “This accomplishment would not be possible without all members of the school community focused on what is best for our students. In addition, it validates the long-standing partnership we have had with SREB that has helped us to reflect on our practice, maintain high expectations and focus on student outcomes.”

This work has resulted in documented gains during the time Gadsden has partnered with SREB, NMPED said. For example, when it comes to the four-year graduation rate, four Gadsden high schools are over 80 percent, and the district average outpaced state performance by six percent. In math and reading achievement, there was an increase of 10 percent or more. In addition, elective offerings at the high schools were transformed from stand-alone options and traditional vocational courses to defined career pathways. Professional learning has been infused across campuses and contents, in part encouraging educators to become school leaders who want to remain in the district.

Visit www.gisd.k12.nm.us/340347_2.