Rio Grande Preparatory Institute

RGPI was once host to the public library of Mesilla from 2012 to 2014, when the school forced the closure due to security concerns.^[3] In 2021, the gymnasium was painted with an homage to four major figures in Las Cruces Public Schools, including former superintendent Karen Trujillo and former Las Cruces High School principal Jim Hendee.^[4]

Michelle Ronga was appointed principal of the school in January 2023.^[5] Julie Maestas has been principal since July 2023.^[6]

As an alternative high school, RGPI differs from standard high schools in their methods of teaching.^[7] RGPI reduces teacher-student ratios, focusing on one-on-one interactions, meant to foster creativity and original thinking.^[1]

As of the 2023–24 school year, RGPI has 144 students enrolled, with an average teacher-student ratio of 16–1.^[2] Ethnically, 86.1% of students are Hispanic, 10.4% is White, 2.1% are African-American, and 1.4% are of other ethnic groups.^[2]