Governor Bill Richardson announces support to save Alamogordo Schools Published July 15, 2009 By the Office of New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson SANTA FE, N.M. -- Governor Bill Richardson and Education Secretary Veronica C. García today announced their support to keep two Alamogordo schools open: Holloman Middle School and High Rolls Elementary School. "Both of these schools are vital to the Alamogordo community and I am committed to making sure their doors are kept open," Governor Richardson said. "It is critically important as Holloman prepares for its newly announced missions that we work to preserve the educational opportunities on the Air Force Base and in the surrounding community." Governor Richardson has directed Secretary García and the Public Education Department (PED) to work with the district and the schools to review financial audits expected in January 2010. The PED will thoroughly assess the audits and determine if the district has the financial capacity to keep both schools open. If the PED determines the district does not, Governor Richardson will make emergency funding available. "School closings are always a last resort. I understand the impact to the communities and the need to ensure fiscal responsibility. We'll do everything we can to support the students and the community," Secretary García said.