Gadsden board adopts 2026–27 calendar option aligning fall break with Las Cruces

The Gadsden Independent School District board voted to adopt the 2026–27 school-year calendar known as Option A, which aligns the district’s fall break and spring break with Las Cruces Public Schools. Board President Lira announced the outcome after a roll-call vote.

Staff presentation detailed a three-option survey the district ran from Jan. 12–16 that drew 8,402 web clicks and responses from staff, parents and students. Option B received the most responses overall, but board members debated trade-offs: Option A preserves alignment with DACC/Alta Vista dual-credit students and reduces scheduling conflicts for those enrolled in dual-credit coursework, while Option B was favored by a larger group of students and some parents.

During discussion Vice President Laura Salazar Flores and other members raised concerns that students at Alta Vista Early College would lose a fall break under Option B; administrators reported Alta Vista enrolls about 177 students. Secretary Claudia Rodriguez and other board members noted the survey’s heavy student participation influenced results and urged care when interpreting responses that might not have fully explained dual-credit ramifications.

After motions and two roll-call votes to put competing options on the floor, the board approved Option A for the 2026–27 calendar. The administration was asked to provide additional details—acreage, program alignment, and any necessary mitigations—if calendar alignment impacts other campus operations.

The vote concludes the calendar-selection agenda item; staff will finalize and publish the adopted calendar and notify campuses and community partners.