The board approved two Sandoval County DWI prevention initiatives for Independence High School totaling $20,000 and awarded multiple on-demand painting contracts plus a refuse/recycling services contract during the July 13 meeting.

District staff told the Rio Rancho Public Schools board they face a roughly $5.8 million technology backlog and recommended using educational technology notes (ETNs) to borrow $2.5–3 million per year for a five-year modernization plan; staff said the move would not raise property taxes but would reduce future capital bond capacity and a resolution is expected July 27.

After a closed session, the Rio Rancho Public Schools Board of Education voted to add one year to Superintendent Dodd’s contract, extending the agreement through 2029. Board members praised Dodd’s first 100 days and expressed confidence in the district’s direction.

District AP leaders told the board the district has reinvigorated Advanced Placement offerings, ordering 2,064 AP exams (up from 1,367 last year), expanding pre‑AP courses and introducing new APs including African American Studies, cybersecurity and personal finance, and hosting statewide AP training at Rio Rancho High School.

District leaders presented an arts‑integration pilot at two elementary schools, showed videos and student demonstrations, and asked the board for $130,000 over two years to complete staff training and embed coaching; board members pressed staff on scaling, selection bias and what the money would buy.

The board initiates a nationwide search for a new superintendent after Doctor Cleveland's retirement announcement.

Cleveland High School honors Daniel Holmes at fine arts night for music educator award

Council approves vehicle for Rio Rancho Public Schools to support successful student program.