Built in 1936–37 as a Public Works Administration project, it is the city's third-oldest operating elementary school.

In 2006, with Downtown Albuquerque experiencing a resurgence and existing inner-city schools becoming crowded, APS began exploring the possibility of reopening Coronado.

After securing funding for this purpose, the district embarked on an $8.3 million project to return the school to service.

This included restoring the main building to its original appearance and making it ADA-compliant, as well as adding a new gym, cafeteria, library, media center, and playground.

[8] Atrisco Heritage Academy HS, Kirtland Air Force Base, and National Museum of Nuclear Science & History are adjacent to but outside of the city limits.Rio Grande HS and Sandia Peak Tramway are near but not in the city limits.