Year in review: Portales schools see achievements, improvements

Between academic achievements and infrastructure improvements, 2023 has been an “exciting year” for Portales Municipal Schools, said Superintendent Johnnie Cain.

Cain said the district has faced some great infrastructure improvements this year, especially for several school’s athletic programs. At the Portales High School the track was resurfaced, while Portales Junior High School constructed a new track.

“Building the track at the junior high and the complex at the high school consolidates sports at their respective schools and enhances the safety of students. By maintaining attractive and comfortable facilities students do better in class and other activities,” Cain said.

Other expansions include the new Ram Athletic Complex nearing completion, which will include a turfed softball field and regulation tennis courts. The high school also received new weight equipment.

Cain said there was a new roof installed at the main building of the junior high school and the high school agriculture building.

“The Portales Municipal School Board believes maintenance of the physical plant at Portales Municipal School is imperative so that buildings and grounds are in good condition and don’t have to be replaced, which saves taxpayers money,” Cain said.

The school district also implemented its new calendar this year. Cain said this provides different educational and enrichment opportunities on many Fridays during the school year.

“The additional hours in the calendar have created more time for students to be in class and instruction each week,” Cain said.

Cain said the district academic achievement scores were above the state average as well.

Throughout its highs, Cain said the school district was still feeling the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic this year. He said since returning from the shutdown of the pandemic, all schools are seeing “poorer than normal” attendance.

“The attendance issue is something that is a problem across the state and country, but PMSD continues to develop strategies and support for students and families whose students are failing to come to school,” Cain said.

He said over the past two years the district has hired several social workers and counselors to work with parents and students to help in their social-emotional struggles.

The school district will be providing educational support classes to parents and families who are struggling with a variety of issues from the end of COVID, study habits, students missing school, and ideas to help parents in troubling times.

Another “frightening time” for the district was a bus accident that took place in January, Cain said.

“Although it was an accident, the district has decided to install cameras inside and outside of each of the buses that will provide information when needed for any complaints of unsafe driving and behavior on buses,” Cain said.

Cain said the buses will now be equipped with GPS equipment, which will help track buses that might be running late or for whatever reason might not be accounted for. He said this provides the district the ability to know where buses are at any given time and monitor speed and routes.

For 2024, Cain said Portales Municipal Schools are looking to expand their infrastructure plans by developing a five-year Facilities Master Plan. He said the committee will consist of teachers, administrators, board members and community members to develop a plan to continue to support the district in making necessary upgrades.

The district is working with architects to install a new roof and better drainage at James Elementary School, along with a new roof at the high school next year. Cain said residents can also expect new heating and cooling systems in the high school’s gymnasium and cafeteria, along with the kitchen at Valencia Elementary School.

He said the district’s main priority this new year is to support the overall growth of students academically, socially, emotionally and develop well-rounded individuals.

“Students have always been and will remain the highest priority at Portales Municipal Schools. Staff will continue to collaborate with parents, the community, and students to continue to provide the best education possible,” Cain said.