For the 2026 school year, there are 5 public schools serving 939 students in 88005, NM (there are , serving 372 private students). 72% of all K-12 students in 88005, NM are educated in public schools (compared to the NM state average of 93%).
The top-ranked public schools in 88005, NM are J Paul Taylor Academy, Alma D'arte Charter and Columbia Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 88005 have an average math proficiency score of 22% (versus the New Mexico public school average of 25%), and reading proficiency score of 32% (versus the 34% statewide average). Schools in 88005, NM have an average ranking of 5/10, which is in the bottom 50% of New Mexico public schools.
Minority enrollment is 85% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the New Mexico public school average of 80% (majority Hispanic).
Best 88005, NM Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
J Paul Taylor Academy
Charter School
(Math: 35-39% | Reading: 55-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
402 W. Court Ave Bldg 2
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 652-4006
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 652-4006
Gr: K-8 | 200 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 71%
Rank: #22.
Alma D'arte Charter
Charter School
(Math: ≤10% | Reading: 40-59%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
402 W Court Ave
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 541-0145
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 541-0145
Gr: 9-12 | 137 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 74%
Rank: #33.
Columbia Elementary School
(Math: 15-19% | Reading: 25-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
4555 Elks Dr
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 527-1561
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 527-1561
Gr: PK-5 | 198 students Student-teacher ratio: 9:1 Minority enrollment: 94%
Rank: #44.
La Academia Dolores Huerta
Charter School
(Math: 11-19% | Reading: 25-29%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
400 West Bell Ave
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 527-5800
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 527-5800
Gr: 6-8 | 68 students Student-teacher ratio: 10:1 Minority enrollment: 97%
Rank: #55.
Alameda Elementary School
(Math: 15-19% | Reading: 15-19%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
1325 N. Alameda Blvd
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 527-9486
Las Cruces, NM 88005
(575) 527-9486
Gr: PK-5 | 336 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 91%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 88005, NM?
The top-ranked public schools in 88005, NM include J Paul Taylor Academy, Alma D'arte Charter and Columbia Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 88005?
5 public schools are located in 88005.
What percentage of students in 88005 go to public school?
72% of all K-12 students in 88005 are educated in public schools (compared to the NM state average of 93%).
What is the racial composition of students in 88005?
88005 public schools minority enrollment is 85% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the New Mexico public schools average of 80% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Transitioning to High School: A Family Guide
Learn how to prepare for high school with practical tips for families before freshman year, from academics to social readiness.
School Vouchers 2026: Updated Pros and Cons
Explore school vouchers in 2026, including updated pros, cons, policy changes, and what families should know before choosing.
Transitioning to Middle School: Summer Planning Guide
A practical 2026 summer planning guide to help parents support a smooth middle school transition for their child.