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Education Committee

In collaboration with the area’s public & private school systems, this committee provides support for initiatives that promote a quality education for our youth, links local business with educational programs, and enhances learning experiences for students inside and outside the classroom. This committee sponsors the Middle School Recognition Program, Bi-Lingual Teacher of the Year Award, and the Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Education Scholarships.

Middle School Recognition Program

The Middle School Recognition Program is the signature program for the Education Committee.  This program works with twelve public and private middle schools in order to recognize outstanding achievement by 6th, 7th and 8th-grade students.  Three students, from each participating school, are nominated based on specific criteria.  The students must display good character, a positive attitude, high effort in the classroom and demonstrate outstanding altruistic acts.  In addition, the nominees must have excellent attendance, demonstrated leadership skills, exemplary role modeling and educational progress.

 

These students are recognized at quarterly “Award Ceremonies” held at the Doña Ana Community College – East Mesa Campus.  They are rewarded with public recognition, a framed certificate and a plaque displaying their name at their campus.  At these ceremonies, guest speakers are selected to motivate and inspire the students to reach their potential via higher education, military service, skilled trade or entrepreneurship.

 

The Middle School Recognition Program is possible because of community support.  Thank you to our 2014-15 sponsors:  Doña Ana Community College, Comcast Cable, FirstLight FCU,  and the Las Cruces Bulletin.  For more information on this program and/or sponsorship opportunities, please contact the Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber at 575-524-8900.

Rayo Perez Education Scholarship Program
The Rayo Perez Education Scholarships are awarded to outstanding high school graduates within Doña Ana County, enabling them to continue their education while encouraging academic excellence.  Students who seek a college degree at either DACC or NMSU may apply.

 

Scholarship recipients are selected on a number of criteria:

  • Academic record

  • Potential to succeed

  • Leadership

  • Participation in community activities

  • Honors

  • Work experience

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For more information on deadlines or how to apply for this scholarship, contact your high school counselor or the Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber at 575-524-8900.

Download application here: LCHCC Scholarship Application 2016 


2015 Scholarship Recipients

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  • Daniel Arellano from Mesilla Valley Christian Schools

  • Cecilia Corona from Gadsden High School, Gadsden Independent School District

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2014 Scholarship Recipients

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  • David Noel from Santa Teresa High School, Gadsden Independent School District

  • Taralyn Trujillo from Hatch High School, Hatch Valley Public Schools

  • Myranda Armijo-Perry from the Early College High School, Las Cruces Public Schools

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2013 Scholarship Recipients

 

  • Isabella Chairez from Las Cruces High School, Las Cruces Public Schools

  • Courtney Gavin from Onate High School, Las Cruces Public Schools

  • Tyler Herrera from Santa Teresa High School, Gadsden Independent School District


Ways to Support the Education Scholarship Program 

The number of scholarships for any given year is depending on a number of funds raised. Currently, this scholarship fund receives its donations from the Annual Golf Tournament silent auction and from community donations.  To donate a silent auction item or make a monetary donation, contact the Chamber office:  575-524-8900.

Bilingual Teacher Recognition Program

The Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Bilingual Teacher Recognition Program honors two exemplary, Bilingual Teachers from schools serving the Doña Ana County.  One teacher from the primary (K-5) division and one teacher from the secondary (6-12) division receive this recognition.  Nominees must be full-time, certified teachers at an accredited school in the Doña Ana County area. For more information, contact your high school principal or the Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber at 575-524-8900.

Other Education Initiatives

Project Back to School began in 2011.  The initiative focuses on providing children with items such as backpacks and Project Back to School supplies, but also accepts donations of socks, underwear, toothbrushes, and toothpaste, hair brushes and combs, and other basic necessities.  The Las Cruces Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, MECA Therapies, FirstLight Federal Credit Union, and other community partners come together annually to support youth throughout Doña Ana County.  For additional information, visit www.projectbacktoschool.com.school

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