Parents, school staff members, and Rio Rancho residents who would like to play an active role in their schools are invited to seek election to one of the school district’s 16 advisory school councils. School council members are also being sought for the two new elementary schools opening next fall, Cielo Azul and Sandia Vista. Those interested in serving at either school may file declarations of candidacy at the school their child currently attends, at the schools’ temporary office in Portable 10 at Enchanted Hills Elementary, or at the district office.

Advisory school councils advise school principals on budgets, curriculum, and rules and policies. School council members are also expected to be champions for students in building community support for schools, develop creative ways to involve parents in schools, and where appropriate, help to connect schools and students to business resources and opportunities.

School councils consist of two school staff members, two parents, and two community representatives who must be Rio Rancho residents or have a student enrolled in a Rio Rancho public school. The principal serves as an active member of the council. Business people who are parents or community members are especially encouraged to run for school councils. Parents whose children are “graduating” from elementary, middle school, or the Mid-high may run for school council at the school their child will attend next year. (For example, parents of children who are “moving up” to 6th grade may run at middle schools.)

Interested candidates may fill out a “declaration of candidacy” form at any Rio Rancho public school or at the district office, 500 Laser Rd. NE, or declaration of candidacy forms may also be completed online here.

Forms must be returned in person to the school office or to the district office by Friday, May 23rd, except the two new elementary schools, Cielo Azul and Sandia Vista.  The filing deadline for the new schools will be established later and will be around the time school starts. Elections will be held in late July and early August at registration and during regular school office hours.