Rio Rancho Public Schools Unveils Innovative Career Technical Education High School with CNM

A Leap Forward in Education: The Opening of RioTECH

On April 23, 2025, the Rio Rancho Public Schools celebrated a significant milestone with the grand opening of RioTECH, a state-of-the-art Career Technical Education (CTE) high school. This innovative facility has been designed to not only enhance the educational landscape of New Mexico but also to equip students with the skills needed for the high-demand careers of the future.

A Unique Educational Model

RioTECH represents a groundbreaking partnership between Rio Rancho Public Schools and Central New Mexico Community College (CNM). This cohesive union aims to provide high school students from grades 10-12 with cutting-edge education in trades and technology directly on campus—eliminating the need for students to travel to different locations for their CTE programs.

The school has the capacity to serve up to 250 students, ensuring a personalized learning experience. Facilities within RioTECH include advanced labs focused on essential skills such as welding, plumbing, carpentry, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), and electrical trades. In addition, there are multiple fully equipped information technology labs dedicated to preparing students for careers in computer science, cybersecurity, and digital media.

Real-World Exposure and Hands-On Learning

At RioTECH, education transcends traditional classroom learning. The design of the learning environments mimics real-world job settings, giving students the opportunity to gain hands-on experience with the tools and technologies they will encounter in their chosen fields. This practical approach is aligned with the school’s mission to provide students with real-world skills and prepare them for immediate employment after graduation or further academic pursuits.

A significant aspect of the curriculum is the strong dual credit partnership with CNM, offering RioTECH students the chance to enroll in college-level CTE courses free of charge. This unique opportunity enables students to earn industry-recognized credentials, certificates, and even associate degrees, which can facilitate their employment prospects or continued education after high school.

A Vision Turned Reality

The vision for RioTECH has been in the making for years, driven by a collaborative effort of educators, administrators, and community stakeholders. Dr. V. Sue Cleveland, Superintendent of RRPS, highlighted the impact of the school's opening, stating, "This school reflects the district's unwavering commitment to providing students with real-world skills and hands-on learning experiences."

CNM President, Tracy Hartzler, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the potential for students to gain valuable career insights and experiences through internships and work-based opportunities. This partnership aims to enhance not just educational outcomes but also the economic landscape of Rio Rancho.

As RioTECH prepares to welcome its first students for the 2025-2026 school year, there is palpable excitement in the air. Principal Dr. Kristopher Johnson remarked on the significance of watching the project come to life. The staff and faculty are enthusiastic about the possibility of shaping a new educational paradigm—one that’s centered around relevance, student engagement, and preparedness for the future job market.

Community Engagement and Future Pathways

During the grand opening, members of the community, industry partners, and media representatives were invited to take guided tours of the facilities. This initiative not only served to showcase the state-of-the-art resources at RioTECH but also aimed to foster connections between the school and the local business community, which is instrumental in providing internships and job placements for graduating students.

With the launch of RioTECH, New Mexico takes a progressive step towards aligning education with industry needs, ultimately ensuring that students harness real-life skills that pave the way to successful, fulfilling careers. As part of the educational landscape in Rio Rancho, RioTECH stands to empower a new generation and contribute significantly to both individual futures and the broader economic growth of the region.

For more information about RioTECH and its programs, visit RioTECH Website.