The Albuquerque Public Schools Board of Education has approved East Mountain High School's expansion to include middle school instruction. The decision was made last Wednesday night with a 5-2 vote, allowing the charter school, known for its high performance, to serve more students at an earlier stage in their education.

East Mountain High School (EMHS) has been recognized for its nearly 25 years of strong academic outcomes. The school's proficiency rates consistently exceed state averages, particularly benefiting low-income students whose math and reading scores are two to four times higher than other areas in the state. EMHS received national recognition as a National Blue Ribbon School in 2018 and maintains the highest graduation rate within the APS district at 90%.

Rick Alvidrez, a GACC board member and Education BIG member, expressed support for the expansion by highlighting EMHS's academic excellence and community demand for more school choices. A recent survey indicated that 73% of Albuquerque metro area residents favor developing more public charter schools in New Mexico, while 82% believe parents should have more free public school options.

The board meeting included almost an hour of public comment largely in favor of EMHS's request. The approval will allow EMHS to start enrolling approximately 100 sixth-grade students in the 2026-2027 school year.

Board members Yolanda Montoya-Cordova, Peggy Muller-Aragón, Danielle Gonzales, Crystal Tapia-Romero, and Courtney Jackson supported the proposal. Barbara Petersen and Josefina Domínguez were the dissenting votes.

Principal Trey Smith and his team at EMHS are recognized for their dedication to student success through rigorous academics and character-building curriculum focused on empathy, integrity, collaboration, curiosity, and reflection.