LCPS welcomes students back to class, in-person & virtually

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico -- Las Cruces Public Schools welcomed back students Monday to in-person learning, but will also continue with virtual instruction for some.

The district announced that masks will be enforced for students, faculty, and staff while indoors throughout the school day and at any indoor after school events.

LCPS staff who are not vaccinated will also undergo "surveillance" Covid-19 testing, according to Superintendent Ralph Ramos.

"Just taking extra precautions to make sure that, you know, we do have a safe, healthy learning environment," he said.

Parents are also asked to perform wellness check on their children before sending them to school.

Ramos said he along with other LCPS faculty and staff are ready to welcome its student's back to the classroom as some will be returning for the first time in more than a year.

Extracurricular activities will make their return this school year for students, as well.

LCPS will also continue to expand its Virtual Learning Academy. The district said 850 students have shown interest in the program. LCPS said with the demand increasing to continue virtual learning, district officials are continuing to reach out to parents who've shown interest.

LCPS said students from other counties will also be able to enroll in the virtual learning program.

Social and emotional well-being for students, faculty and staff is also a priority. Ramos said more social workers have been hired to help support the needs of students.

"We're excited to have students back. Teachers are excited, administrators, principals," he said.

Ramos asked for parents to have patience and "come together" this semester. "If you have any questions, reach out to the principals, look at our websites. They're all up to date to really communicate together. Let's work let's keep our our learning environment safe, healthy, and let's do what's best for kids every day together," Ramos said.