In 2004 the Albuquerque School Board voted to name the city's newest school for Edward Gonzales, in recognition of the artist's contribution to education and culture through his art. Edward Gonzales Elementary is located on Albuquerque's west side. The school’s dedication was held October 27th. A representative from United States Senator Jeff Bingaman’s office read the following statement to the audience:

 "Thank you for extending to me an invitation to attend this event celebrating the grand opening of a new west side Albuquerque Public School. I am even more pleased to learn that you have named this school in honor of Edward Gonzales' artistic contributions to our state and the entire country.It is a fitting tribute to an artist who captures everyday images of New Mexico that underscore the importance of literacy, learning and a strong sense of cultural identity.

"... I encourage everyone who walks through the halls at Edward Gonzales Elementary Schoool - students, parents and teachers - to take a moment to appreciate Mr. Gonzales' paintings and to take to heart his message that education is vital whether it comes in the form of a family reading together at night or from formal classroom instruction."

Sincerely, Jeff Bingaman United States Senator