Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School
1. General Information
Overview
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School is a tuition-free public charter school located in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and is known for its highly structured, academically rigorous environment designed to prepare students from kindergarten through middle school for long-term academic success. The school focuses heavily on literacy and mathematics, believing that strong foundational skills in these areas create the conditions for future college readiness and career achievement. With a mission that emphasizes college graduation as the ultimate goal, Albuquerque Collegiate implements an instructional model inspired by high-performing charter networks across the country.
Students benefit from extended learning time, targeted small-group interventions, and data-driven teaching practices that adjust instruction based on each child’s individual learning needs. Faculty receive extensive coaching and professional development to ensure consistency and high-quality instruction across all grade levels. The school places significant importance on a strong, positive, and structured school culture that supports academic expectations, character development, and respectful behavior. Families are seen as vital partners in the learning process, and the school actively promotes family engagement through communication, events, and collaborative planning. This combination of rigorous academics, deep support, and a mission-driven culture positions Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School as a highly effective educational institution committed to closing achievement gaps and helping every student build a pathway toward future academic and personal success.
Contact Informations
Address: 1720 Bridge Boulevard SW, Suite #101, Albuquerque, NM 87105
Phone Number: (505) 539-5283
Email Address: info@abqcollegiate.org
School Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Founding Year | 2018 |
| Mission / Motto | Educating all students for future college graduation |
| Grades Served | K–7 |
| Student-Teacher Ratio | Approximately 11:1 |
| Campus Size | About 14,000 sq ft |
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Rankings
| Ranking Category | Position / Note |
|---|---|
| State Testing Rank | Top 50% of public schools in New Mexico |
| Math Proficiency Rank | Approximately Top 30% in the state |
| Reading Proficiency Rank | Approximately Top 50% in the state |
| Accountability Rating | Spotlight designation |
2. Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Academics
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Faculties / Departments
- Early Literacy and Reading
- Mathematics Foundations
- Science and Inquiry
- Social Studies and Civics
- Enrichment and Extended Learning
- Student Support and Intervention
- Professional Development for Teachers
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Courses and Programs / Majors
- Foundational Reading and Phonics
- Writing and Language Arts
- Arithmetic and Mathematical Reasoning
- Science Exploration
- Social Studies and Cultural Awareness
- Character Development
- Enrichment Workshops
- Academic Intervention Sessions
Online Learning
Although Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School is primarily an in-person learning institution, it incorporates supplemental digital resources to reinforce academic progress and provide additional support when needed. Online learning is not the core instructional model, but the school may use digital platforms for enrichment activities, skill-building exercises, and communication with families. The focus remains on high-quality face-to-face instruction because the school believes in the power of strong teacher-student relationships, structured routines, and purposeful classroom interactions. However, when circumstances require flexibility, such as during extended absences or specific educational needs, technology can be integrated to maintain continuity in instruction. These digital supports include literacy practice tools, math fluency programs, and online assessments that help teachers track growth and identify areas for further development. While not a fully online school, Albuquerque Collegiate ensures that its students benefit from modern educational tools that enhance learning, provide accessibility, and strengthen foundational academic skills, especially in reading and math. This blended approach allows the school to meet diverse learning needs while preserving the core strengths of its rigorous in-person academic model.
Average Test Scores
| Test Type | Score / Proficiency |
|---|---|
| State Math Proficiency | 30–34% |
| State Reading Proficiency | 30–39% |
| Accountability Rating Score | Approximately 70 out of 100 |
Retention and Graduation Rates
As a K–7 charter school, Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School does not provide traditional high school graduation rates, but it does monitor student retention and academic progression closely. Students typically remain at the school due to its strong culture, personalized instruction, and consistent academic support systems. The school’s approach emphasizes long-term academic preparation, meaning that students develop habits and skills designed to support their performance in middle school, high school, and eventually college. Retention is strengthened by strong family relationships, consistent communication, and a commitment to meeting students’ academic and social needs. The school’s low student-to-teacher ratio allows for early identification of learning challenges, ensuring students receive timely interventions that help them advance successfully through grade levels. Although there is no diploma or graduation ceremony at the K–7 level, the school’s effectiveness is evident in student growth metrics and readiness for higher grade levels. Albuquerque Collegiate’s focus on early literacy, numeracy, and character ensures students are equipped to excel as they transition to more advanced educational settings.
3. Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Admissions
GPA Range and SAT / ACT Range
Because Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School serves elementary and middle school students, GPA, SAT, and ACT scores are not part of the admissions process. Admission is based on an open-enrollment charter lottery model available to all families in the community.
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Acceptance Rate
| Category | Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall Acceptance | Lottery-Based, Capacity Limited |
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Application Requirements
Applying to Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School is a welcoming and straightforward process designed to provide equal access for all families. The school requires a standard charter school application that includes basic student and parent information, along with proof of residency within the appropriate region. Families must also provide documentation such as a birth certificate, immunization record, and previous school records if applicable. Because the school aims to provide an equitable educational environment, no academic testing, GPA requirements, or prior academic performance indicators are part of the admissions process. If applications exceed available seats, students are selected through a fair and transparent lottery system. Once accepted, families complete enrollment forms and may attend an orientation session to learn more about school policies, expectations, and the academic model. This ensures that the transition is smooth and that families feel informed and prepared to participate fully in their child’s educational experience.
Application Process
- Submit the official charter school application
- Provide required residency and student documentation
- Participate in the enrollment lottery if necessary
- Accept the placement offer if selected
- Complete final enrollment paperwork and attend orientation
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Application Deadlines / Important Dates
| Category | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Application Opening | Early each school year |
| Lottery Date | After application window closes |
| Enrollment Deadline | Shortly after lottery results |
| Orientation | Late summer |
Essay Prompt (if applicable)
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School does not require an essay or personal statement for admission.
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Scholarships
As a tuition-free public charter school, Albuquerque Collegiate does not offer scholarships. All students attend at no cost, and the school strives to ensure financial barriers never interfere with a child’s education.
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Tuition Fee (Costs)
| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Free |
| Additional Fees | Minimal to none |
4. Student Profile and Demographics
Student Demographics
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School enrolls students from kindergarten through grade seven, generally aged five through thirteen. The school maintains a balanced gender distribution typical of elementary and middle school populations. A large portion of the student body is Hispanic, reflecting the demographics of the surrounding community. The remainder includes small percentages of White and African American students, as well as other racial or ethnic groups in smaller proportions. This demographic composition contributes to a culturally rich and community-centered learning environment. The school uses curriculum approaches that honor cultural identity, promote inclusivity, and help students see themselves represented in the educational experience. Teachers are trained in culturally responsive practices, ensuring that students from diverse backgrounds feel welcomed, understood, and supported in their academic journey.
Low-Income Students / Students with Disabilities
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School serves a predominantly low-income student population, with most students qualifying for free or reduced-price lunch. This allows the school to implement targeted support systems that directly address economic inequities and ensure every student has access to high-quality learning resources. Students with disabilities receive services through individualized plans designed to meet specific learning needs and promote academic progress. The school’s structure—featuring small class sizes, intensive intervention cycles, and highly trained teachers—creates an environment where students with disabilities can receive the focused attention necessary to thrive. These inclusive practices ensure that no child is overlooked and that every student has the opportunity to succeed regardless of financial background or learning challenges.
Student Body
| Category | Number |
|---|---|
| Total Students | Approximately 190–200 |
| Students Eligible for Free/Reduced Lunch | About 98% |
| Ethnic Composition | Predominantly Hispanic |
University Diversity
Although Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School is not a university, its diversity plays an essential role in shaping the school community and academic experience. The school serves a predominantly Hispanic student population, many of whom come from economically disadvantaged households. This shared background creates a sense of community solidarity, while also presenting unique opportunities for culturally relevant teaching and programming. The school’s instructional practices incorporate students’ cultural experiences into the curriculum, helping them feel validated and empowered in the classroom. Diversity at Albuquerque Collegiate is not merely demographic; it includes a wide range of learning needs, academic strengths, personal backgrounds, and family experiences. Faculty receive training in building inclusive classrooms where every student’s identity is recognized and appreciated. The school’s strong community partnerships and family engagement practices also help create a diverse, interconnected network of support. This contributes to a nurturing, culturally rich environment where students learn from one another and grow academically within a setting that values their individuality.
Average Earnings
Since Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School serves elementary and middle school students, it does not track earnings or employment outcomes. However, the school’s long-term academic mission directly aligns with boosting future earnings potential for its students. Research consistently shows that strong early literacy and mathematics skills significantly increase the likelihood of graduating high school, enrolling in college, and pursuing higher-paying careers. Albuquerque Collegiate places intense focus on these foundational skills, helping students build the academic strength and discipline needed for later success. The school also emphasizes character development, goal-setting, and perseverance—skills that have been linked to higher adult earnings and workplace achievement. By instilling these competencies early, the school supports long-term economic mobility. Although students will not enter the workforce for many years, their experiences at Albuquerque Collegiate lay the groundwork for future educational attainment, which is one of the most important predictors of lifetime earnings.
5. Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Faculty and Staff
Teachers and Staff
The teachers and staff at Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School form a mission-driven team dedicated to delivering high-quality instruction and fostering a positive learning environment. Teachers receive extensive professional development before the school year begins and throughout the year, ensuring they are equipped with the tools and strategies needed to meet students’ academic needs. Staff members include classroom teachers, intervention specialists, paraprofessionals, coaches, counselors, and administrators, all working collaboratively to support student success. The low student-to-teacher ratio allows educators to provide individualized attention and build strong relationships with students and families. The school emphasizes continuous improvement, and teachers regularly engage in coaching cycles, data analysis, and classroom observations. This collaborative approach helps maintain instructional consistency and encourages innovation in teaching practices. Support staff contribute to the school’s smooth operation, ensuring that students receive services, resources, and the structured environment needed to thrive.
Faculty Profiles
Faculty at Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School bring a wide range of expertise in literacy instruction, mathematics pedagogy, child development, and educational leadership. Many educators have experience in high-performing charter networks or rigorous teacher training programs, giving them a strong foundation in evidence-based instructional techniques. Teachers undergo a multi-week summer training program designed to refine their classroom management, instructional delivery, and data-analysis skills. Throughout the year, faculty continue professional development through workshops, coaching sessions, and collaborative planning meetings. Leadership at the school also includes individuals with strong backgrounds in education policy, charter school development, and school management. Collective faculty achievements include awards for teaching excellence, contributions to curriculum design, and participation in specialized literacy and math training programs. This professional expertise enriches the school’s academic environment and contributes to the strong student outcomes that Albuquerque Collegiate aims to achieve.
6. Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School Campus and Student Life
Campus Life / Housing
Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School offers a structured and supportive campus environment designed to meet the needs of elementary and middle school students. The school’s 14,000-square-foot facility includes classrooms, a cafeteria, a flex space for events and additional learning opportunities, a special education room, staff workrooms, and administrative offices. Outdoor areas feature a playground and turf field that allow students to participate in physical activity, structured recess, and community events. The school emphasizes a positive and consistent school culture where routines help students feel safe and focused. There is no on-campus housing, as the school serves day students, but many families participate actively in school life through events, meetings, and celebrations. Extended learning time, enrichment activities, and community-building programs support a vibrant daily campus experience. The school strives to create an atmosphere where students feel welcomed, respected, and motivated to achieve academic excellence.
Transportation
Transportation at Albuquerque Collegiate Charter School is designed for accessibility, safety, and efficiency. Many students arrive via family drop-off, while others use public or district transportation depending on availability. The school’s location in a shopping center provides convenient access points for vehicles and pedestrians, with clearly marked zones for arrival and dismissal. Staff members monitor traffic flow and supervise students to ensure safety during transitions. The school promotes punctuality and consistent attendance by maintaining organized routines during morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up. Families living nearby may walk their children to school, taking advantage of the school’s central and community-oriented location. Although Albuquerque Collegiate does not run an independent bus service, it ensures transportation logistics are manageable and supportive of both families and students. The goal is to create a smooth, reliable system that contributes to students starting their day ready to learn and returning home safely.