[citation needed] CHS received a "C" grade from the New Mexico Public Education Department in 2016.

Carlsbad High School consists of nine buildings scattered across a large campus.

Also on campus are the Freshman Academy (where classes for most freshmen are held), the Science Building, the PAD (housing the History and Math departments), the cafeteria (also housing the theatre department), the Gym Complex (including a public-access natatorium), the Performing Arts Center (containing the band, choir, dance, and cheerleading programs), the Arts and Crafts building, and the Building Trades Center.

CHS competes in the New Mexico Activities Association (NMAA), as a class 6A school in District 3.

In 2013, the NMAA realigned the state's schools in to six classifications and adjusted district boundaries.