LAPS News:

Los Alamos Public Schools (LAPS) has announced that Piñon Elementary School in White Rock has been awarded a 2025 Spark Change Award.

This is the first year for these awards, launched by the Alumni of the Changemakers Fellowship as a new initiative to honor schools that demonstrate improved student outcomes can be achieved for all students.

Piñon Elementary received recognition for highest performing in mathematics for students with disabilities. This subgroup showed a 34.3 percent proficiency in mathematics in 2023-2024.

“I am thrilled and honored to accept this award on behalf of our school community,” Principal Ivanna Austell said. “This recognition reflects the hard work and dedication of our teachers, staff, and families, and most importantly, the perseverance and growth of our students. Their success is the true measure of our mission, and we are proud to see their achievements celebrated at the state level.”

Sponsored by ConocoPhillips, the awards highlight schools that are either the highest-performing or the fastest-improving in literacy and math for Yazzie Martinez subgroups—economically disadvantaged students, English Learners, Native American students, and students with disabilities. By showcasing these schools, the Spark Change Awards demonstrate that meaningful progress is possible for every New Mexico student, especially the state’s most underserved students. 

Award recipients were identified through a rigorous analysis of statewide assessment data from the 2023–2024 school year. Schools recognized by the program both serve Yazzie Martinez subgroup populations and demonstrate measurable success in raising student achievement.

Superintendent Jennifer Guy said, “I am proud of the work that is happening at Pinon Elementary School. This spotlight award is nice recognition of the students and teachers and great learning happening at this school. Go Panthers!”