FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2026
CLOVIS, N.M. — Mesa Elementary School has been recognized nationally for its students’ success in reading, earning designation as a Bright Spots Top School in literacy from The 74, a nonprofit newsroom covering education across the United States.
The Bright Spots initiative identifies schools across the country where students are outperforming expectations in literacy. The recognition is based on an analysis comparing third-grade reading proficiency with local poverty rates, highlighting schools where students are demonstrating stronger literacy outcomes than demographic factors might predict.
Mesa Elementary was among a select group of schools recognized for beating the odds and demonstrating strong student achievement in reading.
“This recognition reflects the hard work happening every day at Mesa Elementary,” said Carrie Nigreville, Deputy Superintendent of Academic Services and Leadership. “Our students are rising to the challenge, and our teachers and staff are creating the learning experiences and support that help them succeed.”
The 74 launched its Bright Spots project to identify and highlight schools demonstrating that students can achieve strong literacy outcomes regardless of socioeconomic circumstances. Its nationwide analysis examined reading performance across nearly 42,000 schools and millions of students.
For Mesa Elementary, the recognition provides another reason to celebrate the progress students are making while continuing the school’s focus on building strong readers.
“Being named a national Bright Spots Top School in Literacy by The 74 is a proud moment for Mesa Elementary,” said Principal Tori Blair. “This achievement is a direct result of the extraordinary dedication of our teachers and staff, alongside the constant encouragement of our families at home. Reading opens doors for every child, and seeing our students beat the odds proves what we can accomplish when our entire school community works together.”
Clovis Municipal Schools celebrates Mesa Elementary’s Bright Spots recognition in conjunction with National Literacy Day on September 8.
The Bright Spots project and nationwide literacy map are available through The 74.