FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 21, 2026
Clovis, NM — Clovis Municipal School District (CMS) proudly recognizes the outstanding work of its educators and students following the release of a new statewide literacy analysis commissioned by the New Mexico Coalition of Educational Leaders (NMCEL). The report, conducted by Evress Analytics, confirms what Clovis educators see every day in classrooms: New Mexico students are learning, growing, and meeting high expectations.
The NMCEL white paper demonstrates that New Mexico’s lower reported proficiency rates are the result of rigorous literacy standards—not a lack of student progress. When reading performance is examined using Lexile growth over time, students across the state, including those in Clovis Municipal Schools, show growth that meets or exceeds national norms.
“Rankings don’t tell the whole story,” said Superintendent Russ. “This research validates the hard work happening in our classrooms and the commitment of our teachers to high standards. Our students are rising to the challenge.”
Clovis Municipal Schools is proud to be part of a statewide community of districts contributing data and instructional leadership to this effort. The findings reinforce the importance of focusing on growth, instructional quality, and long-term progress rather than single-year proficiency labels.
Most importantly, this moment belongs to students and educators. Despite challenges, they continue to demonstrate resilience, dedication, and academic growth. Their work is reflected in the data and affirmed by this research.
Clovis Municipal School District applauds the New Mexico Coalition of Educational Leaders for advancing a more accurate, data-informed conversation about literacy in our state. CMS remains committed to supporting high-quality instruction, celebrating student growth, and partnering with educators statewide to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.
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