For the 2026 school year, there are 5 public schools serving 1,989 students in 87417, NM.
The top-ranked public schools in 87417, NM are Judy Nelson Elementary School, Kirtland Middle School and Kirtland Elementary School. Overall testing rank is based on a school's combined math and reading proficiency test score ranking.
Public schools in zipcode 87417 have an average math proficiency score of 19% (versus the New Mexico public school average of 25%), and reading proficiency score of 24% (versus the 34% statewide average). Schools in 87417, NM have an average ranking of 3/10, which is in the bottom 50% of New Mexico public schools.
Minority enrollment is 91% of the student body (majority American Indian), which is more than the New Mexico public school average of 81% (majority Hispanic).
Best 87417, NM Public Schools (2026)
School
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
(Math and Reading Proficiency)
Location
Quick Facts
Rank: #11.
Judy Nelson Elementary School
(Math: 31% | Reading: 27%)
Rank:
Rank:
6/
Top 50%10
40 Cr 6580
Kirtland, NM 87417
(505) 598-6285
Kirtland, NM 87417
(505) 598-6285
Gr: PK-6 | 486 students Student-teacher ratio: 14:1 Minority enrollment: 86%
Rank: #22.
Kirtland Middle School
(Math: 16% | Reading: 22%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
538 Cr 6100
Kirtland, NM 87417
(505) 598-6114
Kirtland, NM 87417
(505) 598-6114
Gr: 7-8 | 372 students Student-teacher ratio: 12:1 Minority enrollment: 92%
Rank: #33.
Kirtland Elementary School
(Math: 14% | Reading: 24%)
Rank:
Rank:
3/
Bottom 50%10
30 Cr 6446
Kirtland, NM 87417
(505) 598-5893
Kirtland, NM 87417
(505) 598-5893
Gr: PK-6 | 388 students Student-teacher ratio: 13:1 Minority enrollment: 94%
Rank: #44.
Kirtland Central High School
(Math: 6-9% | Reading: 20-24%)
Rank:
Rank:
2/
Bottom 50%10
550 County Road 6100
Kirtland, NM 87417
(505) 598-5881
Kirtland, NM 87417
(505) 598-5881
Gr: 9-12 | 743 students Student-teacher ratio: 15:1 Minority enrollment: 92%
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top-ranked public schools in 87417, NM?
The top-ranked public schools in 87417, NM include Judy Nelson Elementary School, Kirtland Middle School and Kirtland Elementary School.
How many public schools are located in 87417?
5 public schools are located in 87417.
What is the racial composition of students in 87417?
87417 public schools minority enrollment is 91% of the student body (majority American Indian), which is more than the New Mexico public 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.