GADSDEN, N.M. — The Gadsden Independent School District Board of Education voted to adopt a multi‑year strategic plan that sets measurable targets for student achievement, equity and staff retention.

Superintendent Dempsey and Chief Academic Officer Maria Hernandez presented the plan and asked the board to approve it as an action item. The plan calls for a 5% annual improvement in short‑cycle and state assessment scores through "exemplary learning environments" and varied instructional materials, quarterly updates to the board and continued use of diagnostic programs such as iReady and iStation.

Administrators told the board the plan includes goals to increase equitable opportunities that should yield annual growth and a three‑year target to reach a 15% increase in designated measures. Human resources targets include reducing staff turnover by 3% and increasing retention by 3% by 2028. Security and emergency‑preparedness measures, including drills and campus safety plans, were listed as another strategic priority.

Board member Michelle Rodriguez moved to approve the strategic plan; the motion passed with an electronic vote. Superintendent Dempsey said some summative assessment data remain embargoed by the Public Education Department and will be presented when released. Leaders said they will present quarterly formative assessment data and additional details on implementation and staffing at future meetings.

Why it matters: The plan ties district expenditures and staffing decisions to measurable academic and operational goals and creates a recurring reporting schedule to the board.

What happens next: District staff will provide quarterly updates to the board on assessments and progress, and will return with more details as state summative data and federal funding clarity become available.