New Mexico's education system has long been plagued by issues such as low graduation rates and inadequate funding, prompting Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to outline a comprehensive plan for reform. The proposed budget allocates $1.2 billion for K-12 education, a 10% increase from last year's allocation, with a focus on supporting under-resourced schools in Albuquerque and other urban areas.
This move aims to improve teacher pay, reduce class sizes, and enhance school infrastructure in underserved areas of the state. The plan also includes a $100 million increase in education funding over two years, which will be used to support struggling schools.
The plan also aims to address New Mexico's low high school graduation rate and improve student outcomes. However, the state is facing a budget shortfall, with some candidates calling for increased taxes to support education.