New Mexico Districts Boost Virtual Education with Stride Partnership

Two school districts in New Mexico have formed a partnership with Stride Inc., an online education provider, to manage the Destinations Career Academy of New Mexico (NMDCA). This transition, effective this fall, aims to enhance access to virtual education for students across the state. The NMDCA, which began operations in 2020, is expected to enroll over 3,000 students for the upcoming 2025-2026 school year.

Chama Valley Independent Schools and Santa Rosa Consolidated Schools will oversee the academy’s operations. District leaders view this collaboration as a strategic initiative to deliver high-quality virtual instruction, particularly in areas that have historically lacked educational resources. In a joint statement, Superintendents Anthony Casados of Chama Valley and Martin Madrid of Santa Rosa emphasized the importance of this partnership: “This partnership with Stride K12 is a strategic step forward in expanding educational access and innovation in our rural communities.”

They added, “By offering a high-quality virtual option under our district umbrellas, we’re creating new opportunities for students across the state while positioning our districts as forward-thinking hubs for learning.”

The partnership allows NMDCA to benefit from Stride’s resources and instructional support while maintaining local oversight aligned with state educational goals. Since its launch, NMDCA has grown to be one of the most recognized online public schools in New Mexico, featuring licensed teachers, tailored instruction, and career-oriented courses, including dual-credit options for high school students.

The academy’s expansion aligns with a rising demand from families for flexible and innovative educational models. This is particularly significant in regions where geographical and economic barriers have limited access to specialized programs. Adam Hawf, Superintendent of Schools at Stride K12, noted, “Families in New Mexico are increasingly seeking education options that are flexible, future-focused, and built to support each student’s individual needs.” He further stated that the partnership with Chama Valley and Santa Rosa enhances Stride’s foundation in the state and fosters collaboration with districts dedicated to student success.

Enrollment for the new school year is currently open, with applications being accepted through NMDCA’s official website. This initiative not only aims to provide broader educational opportunities but also seeks to foster a learning environment that meets the diverse needs of New Mexico’s students.