Looking for the best schools in New Mexico? Explore our list of top-ranked K-12 and private schools across the state with contact details, ratings, and why they stand out academically.
🌟 Introduction
New Mexico offers a diverse educational landscape with public, charter, and private schools that cater to students from all backgrounds. Whether you’re relocating or seeking better opportunities for your child, finding a high-performing school is crucial.
In this guide, we’ll walk through the top schools in New Mexico , based on recent academic performance, graduation rates, college readiness, and reviews. We’ve also included contact information and insights into what makes each institution unique.
🔍 How Are Schools Ranked?
School rankings are typically determined by:
- Standardized test scores (state assessments)
- College readiness metrics
- Graduation rates
- Student-to-teacher ratios
- Extracurricular offerings
- Parent and student reviews
We used data from Niche.com , GreatSchools.org , and the New Mexico Public Education Department to compile this list of top-ranked schools.
🥇 Top 10 Ranked Schools in New Mexico
1. Sandia Preparatory School – Albuquerque, NM
- Type: Private/Charter
- Grades: 6–12
- Ranking: #1 in NM (Niche)
- Website: sandiadeprep.org
- Phone: (505) 856-2233
- Address: 140 Academy Rd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87123
- Why it’s great: Known for rigorous academics and a strong STEM program. Offers AP courses and college preparatory curriculum.
2. Albuquerque Academy – Albuquerque, NM
- Type: Private
- Grades: 6–12
- Ranking: #2 in NM
- Website: cottonwood.k12.nm.us
- Phone: (505) 821-2600
- Address: 6400 Wyoming Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109
- Why it’s great: Long-standing reputation for excellence in arts, sciences, and athletics.
3. Los Alamos High School – Los Alamos, NM
- Type: Public
- Grades: 9–12
- Ranking: #3 in NM
- Website: losalamos.k12.nm.us
- Phone: (505) 662-5432
- Address: 101 Diamond Dr, Los Alamos, NM 87544
- Why it’s great: Located near national labs, offering unique STEM opportunities and internships.
4. Santa Fe Preparatory School – Santa Fe, NM
- Type: Private
- Grades: 7–12
- Ranking: #4 in NM
- Website: sfprep.org
- Phone: (505) 982-4242
- Address: 1101 Camino Cruz Blanca, Santa Fe, NM 87505
- Why it’s great: Focuses on interdisciplinary learning and critical thinking. Small class sizes.
5. Cimarron CTE High School – Albuquerque, NM
- Type: Charter
- Grades: 9–12
- Ranking: #5 in NM
- Website: cimarronschool.org
- Phone: (505) 830-3900
- Address: 7510 Jefferson St NE, Albuquerque, NM 87109
- Why it’s great: Career & Technical Education focused school with real-world skills training.
6. La Cueva High School – Albuquerque, NM
- Type: Public
- Grades: 9–12
- Ranking: #6 in NM
- Website: aps.edu/lacueva
- Phone: (505) 873-7400
- Address: 710 Lomas Blvd NW, Albuquerque, NM 87104
- Why it’s great: Strong performing arts and sports programs alongside solid academic offerings.
7. Eldorado High School – Albuquerque, NM
- Type: Public
- Grades: 9–12
- Ranking: #7 in NM
- Website: aps.edu/eldorado
- Phone: (505) 873-7200
- Address: 8920 Wyoming Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87111
- Why it’s great: High academic standards, award-winning music and theater programs.
8. Mesa Vista Elementary School – Las Cruces, NM
- Type: Public
- Grades: K–6
- Ranking: Top elementary in NM
- Website: lcps.org/mesavista
- Phone: (575) 527-6130
- Address: 4251 E Lohman Ave, Las Cruces, NM 88011
- Why it’s great: Consistently high reading and math proficiency scores.
9. Valle Del Sol Community School – Santa Fe, NM
- Type: Charter
- Grades: K–8
- Ranking: Top charter school in NM
- Website: valledelsol.org
- Phone: (505) 471-3030
- Address: 1501 Siler Rd, Santa Fe, NM 87507
- Why it’s great: Emphasis on bilingual education and community involvement.
10. Zaragoza Middle School – Las Cruces, NM
- Type: Public
- Grades: 6–8
- Ranking: Top middle school in NM
- Website: lcps.org/zaragoza
- Phone: (575) 527-6160
- Address: 2955 El Paseo Rd, Las Cruces, NM 88011
- Why it’s great: Strong STEM focus and student support programs.
🗺️ Map of Top Schools in New Mexico
If you’re planning a visit or considering relocation, here’s a quick map showing the locations of these top schools:
[Embed interactive Google Map here]
🎓 Applying to These Schools
Most public schools require only proof of residency. For private or charter schools, applications may include:
- Entrance exams
- Interviews
- Academic transcripts
- Letters of recommendation
Check each school’s website for application deadlines and requirements.
🧠 Tips for Choosing the Right School
- Visit the campus — see how students interact and observe classroom environments.
- Talk to teachers and parents — get firsthand insights.
- Review test scores and college admissions stats — especially important for high schools.
- Consider extracurricular options — arts, sports, clubs, and STEM programs matter too.
- Evaluate transportation and safety — proximity and neighborhood impact your daily life.
📞 Contact Information Summary
| School | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Sandia Prep | (505) 856-2233 | sandiadeprep.org |
| Albuquerque Academy | (505) 821-2600 | cottonwood.k12.nm.us |
| Los Alamos High | (505) 662-5432 | losalamos.k12.nm.us |
| Santa Fe Prep | (505) 982-4242 | sfprep.org |
| Cimarron CTE | (505) 830-3900 | cimarronschool.org |
For more contact info, visit each school’s official site.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the #1 school in New Mexico?
A: Sandia Preparatory School in Albuquerque consistently ranks as the top school in New Mexico.
Q: Are there good charter schools in New Mexico?
A: Yes! Valle Del Sol Community School and Cimarron CTE High School are among the highest-rated charter schools in the state.
Q: Do I need to live nearby to attend a public school?
A: Yes, most public schools require proof of local residency.
Q: What grades do these schools cover?
A: Grades vary from kindergarten through 12th grade depending on the school level.
📲 Stay Updated
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📝 Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for top-tier academics, strong arts programs, or STEM-focused institutions, New Mexico has excellent schools to meet every student’s needs. Use this guide to explore your options and make an informed decision for your family.
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