IMPORTANT DATES FOR MAY:

• May 23rd: Field Day Noon Dismissal - NO AFTERCARE

• May 26th: Memorial Day No School

• May 28th: Virtual Workshop: Creating Protective Communities

• May 29th: Last Day of School: Noon Dismissal

• May 30th: Sixth Grade Ceremony 1:30-3:00 

Dear Rio Grande Families,

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our most recent Beyond Boundaries information sessions. Your questions, curiosity, and support continue to shape and strengthen this exciting journey as we work together to reimagine the future of our campus. Below is a compilation of questions that were asked during the session, both previously and most recently, with answers that reflect where we are now and what’s on the horizon.

Q&A: Beyond Boundaries Capital Campaign & Campus Project

When will Phase I begin?

Our contractor, InsightNM, expects to break ground around July 1, depending on the timing of permit approval.

Who are the architects?

We are working with DNCA, the same talented firm leading the expansion of the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum.

What’s included in Phase I?

Phase I focuses on replacing our outdated portables with a new Arts & Sciences building, featuring dedicated spaces for art, science, and performing arts, as well as outdoor classrooms, a teacher lounge, and a flexible common area.

How much has been raised so far?

Including pledges, we’ve raised a little over $2 million to date.

How many million do you need in total?

We estimate all three phases will cost around $7.5 million, with Phase I coming in just under $4 million.

Will we need to use the endowment?

So far, we have not used the endowment. However, the board is aware that a portion may be needed to complete the full project.

Is the building LEED certified? Solar powered? Using sustainable materials?

While we are not seeking LEED certification (as it’s cost-prohibitive), the building incorporates sustainable design principles and uses healthy, environmentally conscious materials wherever possible.  We are designing the roof infrastructure to support solar power in the future.

Will there be new play structures or swings?

Yes, play elements are part of our vision. Installation timelines are still being refined and will align with progress across the phases. Phase III includes a large Nature Play Zone.

Will the field be used as a staging ground during Phases II and III?

No, the field will be usable again during those later phases. We do not anticipate significant disruption.

What happens with summer camps during construction?

We’ll preserve a portion of the field and expand off-campus activities, including trips to Patrick Smith Park, occasional use of the Prep School field, and possible partnerships with Santa Fe Swim & Tennis.

When does Phase II begin, and what does it include?

Phase II design begins soon. Once construction starts, it should take about 10–11 months. It includes a new 4th–6th grade building near the Fire Road and old portables. This phase also includes a demo of the current EC building and a light reconfiguration of the existing 5/6 building, which will become the new Early Childhood Center. Kindergarten and Spanish will move to the main building as part of Phase II.

What is the focus of Phase III?

Phase III will center on campus landscaping, outdoor learning environments, and completing the final elements of the reimagined master plan. This includes connecting pathways, outdoor gathering spaces, native plantings, and intentional play and learning zones that enhance our campus’s natural beauty and functionality.

Is there a sustainability component to Phase III?

Absolutely. Phase III will prioritize native, drought-tolerant landscaping, shade structures, and outdoor classrooms designed with ecological impact and student well-being in mind. As part of our water retention efforts, we also plan to incorporate Zuni bowls and other passive water harvesting features that support healthy soil, reduce runoff, and model sustainable land stewardship for our students.

Will the construction zone hinder our admissions process?

We don’t believe so. In fact, we hope the progress will spark excitement among prospective families. Importantly, no students or educators will be displaced during construction.

Thoughts on future fundraising?

We’re excited to welcome a new Director of Development in July, and will continue to pursue grants and community partnerships in addition to donor support.

Safety and Security Updates

You may have noticed some updated check-in procedures at the front office. We thank you for your patience as we navigate implementing additional precautions to keep our community safe. See below for more details.