For the 2026 school year, there are 7 public elementary schools serving 1,955 students in 87002, NM.
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 87002, NM are Belen Family School, Gil Sanchez Elementary School and Dennis Chavez Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public elementary schools in zipcode 87002 have an average math proficiency score of 33% (versus the New Mexico public elementary school average of 26%), and reading proficiency score of 35% (versus the 34% statewide average). Elementary schools in 87002, NM have an average ranking of 7/10, which is in the top 50% of New Mexico public elementary schools.
Minority enrollment is 83% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the New Mexico public elementary school average of 81% (majority Hispanic).
Best 87002, NM Public Elementary Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #1 - 21. - 2.
Belen Family School
Alternative School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
4 Eastside School Road
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-2270
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-2270
Gr: 1-8 | 154 students Student-teacher ratio: 31:1 Minority enrollment: 72%
Rank: #1 - 21. - 2.
Gil Sanchez Elementary School
(Math: 45-49% | Reading: 50-54%)
Rank:
Rank:
9/
Top 20%10
376 Jarales Rd
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-1900
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-1900
Gr: PK-6 | 316 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 82%
Rank: #33.
Dennis Chavez Elementary School
(Math: 40-44% | Reading: 35-39%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
19670 Hwy 314
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-1800
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-1800
Gr: PK-6 | 294 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 85%
Rank: #44.
Rio Grande Elementary School
(Math: 30-39% | Reading: 40-44%)
Rank:
Rank:
8/
Top 30%10
15 Eastside School Rd
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-2200
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-2200
Gr: PK-6 | 332 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Minority enrollment: 89%
Rank: #55.
La Merced Elementary School
(Math: 28% | Reading: 31%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
301 Alame Loop
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-2100
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-2100
Gr: PK-6 | 463 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 81%
Rank: #66.
La Promesa Elementary School
(Math: 25-29% | Reading: 20-24%)
Rank:
Rank:
5/
Bottom 50%10
898 Hwy 304
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-2400
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-2400
Gr: PK-6 | 230 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 82%
Rank: #77.
Central Elementary School
(Math: 18% | Reading: 20-24%)
Rank:
Rank:
4/
Bottom 50%10
600 W. Picard Ave
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-1200
Belen, NM 87002
(505) 966-1200
Gr: 4-6 | 166 students Student-teacher ratio: 11:1 Minority enrollment: 84%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public elementary schools in 87002, NM?
The top-ranked public elementary schools in 87002, NM include Belen Family School, Gil Sanchez Elementary School and Dennis Chavez Elementary School.
How many public elementary schools are located in 87002?
7 public elementary schools are located in 87002.
What is the racial composition of students in 87002?
87002 public elementary schools minority enrollment is 83% of the student body (majority Hispanic), which is more than the New Mexico public elementary schools average of 81% (majority Hispanic).
Recent Articles
Gifted, Honors, and Advanced Tracks: Are They Accessible or Just Advertised?
Learn how to evaluate gifted, honors, and advanced academic programs in public schools, including admission criteria, equity, and the questions every parent should ask.
Algebra Readiness: What Parents Should Ask Before Middle School
Discover how to determine if your child is ready for algebra before middle school, including the questions parents should ask and the skills students need to succeed.
How to Evaluate Reading Instruction in Your Zoned Elementary School
Learn how to evaluate reading instruction in your neighborhood elementary school by recognizing effective literacy practices, asking the right questions, and understanding what quality reading instruction looks like.
