The New Mexico Department of Justice (NMDOJ), after a years-long investigation, found that the Gallup-McKinley County School District suspended Native American and Hispanic students out of school more frequently than their peers, causing them to lose substantial classroom instruction.
The report found that students in the district lost at least twice as many instructional days to out-of-school suspensions as the statewide average. Among the most significant findings, Native American students lost about eight to 10 times as many instructional days to suspensions as White students, and Hispanic students lost three to four times as many instructional days as White students.
Investigators examined several years of student discipline data, district policies, complaints, and interviews with educators, families and community members.
The report also acknowledged progress in the district, noting that expulsions and referrals to law enforcement have declined in recent years. However, the Justice Department said significant racial and ethnic disparities in school discipline remain, recommending further reforms to ensure students spend more time in the classroom.
“Every child deserves an equal opportunity to learn in a safe and supportive school environment,” said Attorney General Raúl Torrez. “Our investigation found that Gallup-McKinley County Schools relies too heavily on exclusionary discipline and that these practices disproportionately affect Native American and Hispanic students.”
“The loss of instructional time has real consequences for academic success and future opportunity,” he stressed. The NMDOJ report, released on July 2, serves as a framework for reforms that strengthen accountability, ensure fairness, and improve student outcomes, he added.
District administrators said they are reviewing the report’s findings and are committed to ensuring all students are treated fairly and consistently. Officials cited recent efforts, including the creation of an Equity Council and expanded community engagement, as part of ongoing work to improve school climate and disciplinary practices.
The report recommends that the district:
- Reduce disparities in out-of-school suspensions.
- Strengthen discipline policies and guidelines.
- Improve the collection and analysis of discipline data.
- Expand staff training on equitable disciplinary practices.
- Increase transparency and accountability through regular public reporting.
The Department of Justice said reducing unnecessary out-of-school suspensions is critical, saying consistent classroom attendance is closely tied to improved academic outcomes. The report is part of broader efforts across New Mexico to promote equitable educational opportunities while maintaining safe and effective learning environments.
