Aztec Municipal School District (AMSD) proudly recognizes the outstanding work of its educators and students following the release of a new statewide literacy analysis commissioned by the New Mexico Coalition of Educational Leaders (NMCEL). The report, conducted by Evress Analytics, confirms what Aztec educators see every day in classrooms: New Mexico students are learning, growing, and meeting high expectations.
The NMCEL white paper demonstrates that New Mexico’s lower reported proficiency rates are the result of rigorous literacy standards, not a lack of student progress. When reading performance is examined using Lexile growth over time, students across the state, including those in Aztec Municipal School District, show growth that meets or exceeds national norms.
“Rankings alone never capture the full picture” said Superintendent Laws. “This study recognizes the strong instruction happening every day and our teachers’ commitment to rigorous learning. Our students are stepping up and showing what they are capable of and they are demonstrating steady growth and resilience each and every day.”
Aztec Municipal School District is proud to be part of a statewide community of districts contributing data and instructional leadership to this effort. The findings reinforce the importance of focusing on growth, instructional quality, and long-term progress rather than single-year proficiency labels.
Most importantly, this recognition belongs to students and educators. Despite challenges, they continue to demonstrate resilience, dedication, and academic growth. Their work is reflected in the data and affirmed by this research.
Aztec Municipal School District applauds the New Mexico Coalition of Educational Leaders for advancing a more accurate, data-informed conversation about literacy in our state. AMSD remains committed to supporting high-quality instruction, celebrating student growth, and partnering with educators statewide to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.