Three Las Cruces High Schools Rank in Top 15 Statewide

Three high schools in the Las Cruces Public Schools district have been named in the top 15 schools in New Mexico, according to a report by U.S. News and World Report. 

Arrowhead Medical Academy ranked fifth on the list, Arrowhead Early College Academy took the ninth spot and Centennial High School ranked 13^th.   

The three schools were among more than 24,000 public schools reviewed across all 50 states, including the District of Columbia. Criteria for ranking included:  

• College readiness based on the proportions of 12th grade students who took and passed advanced placement and/or International Baccalaureate exams.
• College curriculum breadth based on proportions of 12th grade students who took and passed AP and/or IB exams in multiple content areas.
• Math and reading proficiency, based on student performance on state-required tests.
• Math and reading performance, based on whether performance on state assessments exceeded expectations given the school's proportion of underserved students.
• Underserved student performance, based on how black, Hispanic and low-income students performed on state assessments compared with those who are not underserved in the state.
• Graduation rates based on the proportion of students who entered ninth grade in 2013-2014 and graduated four years later.

“I’m so proud of our students and staff at Arrowhead Park Schools,” said Gabriela Alaniz, principal at Arrowhead Park Early College High School and Medical Academy. “Our staff works hard to provide an environment of support, and it never ceases to amaze me to see what our students can accomplish in four years. It’s an honor to be part of this exceptional community of learners.”  

Susie Hendee, principal at Centennial High School, echoed Alaniz’s excitement after the announcement was made.  

“This is a tremendous honor,” Hendee said. “The staff and students at Centennial stand among the highest in achievement expectations and student recognition. We honor our students in all aspects of education and will continue to challenge and support them to strive beyond their perceived limits.” 

Out of New Mexico’s 223 high schools nationwide, 166 of them made the Top Schools report. For a complete list, visit www.usnews.com/education/best-high-schools/rankings-overview.