New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson was on hand today at a press conference announcing New Mexico’s first Early College High School.
Governor Bill Ricardson speaking at ECHS press conference
The new school will be built in the Arrowhead Research Park on the campus of New Mexico State University (NMSU). It is slated to begin holding classes in the fall of 2011.
The Early College High School(ECHS), a regional project, will focus on increasing the area high school graduation rates, enhancing career and technical education opportunities, and ensuring that students graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in postsecondary education and the 21st century workplace.
ECHS will provide new and enhanced opportunities for up to 500 Dona Ana County teenagers. Students will experience an academic environment in a small, active learning community, which includes connections to learning opportunities outside the classroom through industry internships, online learning, and independent projects and participation in dual enrollment. Students completing Early College High School will graduate with a high school diploma and up to two years of college credit, with the potential of earning an associate’s degree.
Dignitaries joining the Governor at today’s press conference included: NM Department of Education Assistant Secretary Dr. Gloria Rendon; NMSU Interim President Dr. Manuel T. Pacheco; NMSU Provost Dr. Waded Cruzado-Salas; NMSU Vice President of Economic Development and former Governor Garrey Carruthers; NMSU College of Education Dean Dr. Michael Morehead; Dona Ana Community College CEO Dr. Margie Huerta; Las Cruces Public Schools Superintendent Stan Rounds; and Suzanne Quillen, Chair of the Board of Directors of the Bridge of Southern New Mexico.
The ECHS is a collaborative effort of New Mexico State University, Dona Ana Community College, Las Cruces Public Schools, Gadsden Independent School District, Hatch Valley Public Schools, The Bridge of Southern New Mexico, and regional business and industry partners.
