New Mexico Districts Boost Virtual Learning with Stride Partnership

Two school districts in New Mexico have formed a partnership with online education provider Stride Inc. to enhance virtual learning opportunities. The partnership involves the Destinations Career Academy of New Mexico (NMDCA), which was established in 2020 as a statewide online public school. Under the new agreement, starting this fall, NMDCA will be managed by Chama Valley Independent Schools and Santa Rosa Consolidated Schools. The academy is expected to enroll more than 3,000 students for the 2025-2026 school year.

District leaders from both Chama Valley and Santa Rosa believe this collaboration is a strategic initiative aimed at expanding access to high-quality virtual education in areas that have traditionally faced challenges in accessing such resources. In a joint statement, Superintendent Anthony Casados of Chama Valley and Superintendent Martin Madrid of Santa Rosa expressed optimism about the partnership. They stated, “This partnership with Stride K12 is a strategic step forward in expanding educational access and innovation in our rural communities. 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.”

Through this partnership, students will benefit from Stride’s comprehensive resources and instructional support while local districts maintain oversight and ensure alignment with state education standards. Since its inception, NMDCA has become a leading online public school in New Mexico, featuring licensed teachers, customized instruction, and career-focused courses, including dual-credit options for high school students.

The growth of NMDCA reflects a broader trend among New Mexico families seeking more flexible and future-oriented learning options. Adam Hawf, Stride K12 superintendent, noted the increasing demand for educational models that cater to individual student needs. “Families in New Mexico are increasingly seeking education options that are flexible, future-focused, and built to support each student’s individual needs,” he said. “Our partnerships with Chama Valley and Santa Rosa allow us to build on our foundation in the state and collaborate with districts that share our commitment to innovation and student success.”

Enrollment for the upcoming school year is currently open, with applications being accepted through the NMDCA website. As educational landscapes continue to evolve, this partnership is poised to play a crucial role in expanding access to quality education in New Mexico’s rural communities.