Cut off: School closings leave rural students isolated

The school system in rural New Mexico is sending school buses to students' far-flung homes to bring them assignments, meals and a little human contact. — Cedar Attanasio/AP

CUBA, New Mexico: The midday arrival of a school bus at Cyliss Castillo's home on the remote edge of a mesa breaks up the long days of boredom and isolation for the high school senior.

The driver hands over food in white plastic bags, collects Castillo's school assignments and offers some welcome conversation before setting out for another home.