LESC News:
LAS VEGAS — The heart of educational reform in New Mexico is set to beat strongly as the Legislative Education Study Committee (LESC) convenes from July 23 to 25 at New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU). This meeting promises to be a pivotal moment for public education, bringing together lawmakers, educators, and experts to address pressing issues and innovative solutions.
On Wednesday, July 23, attendees can look forward to a detailed update on the Public Education Reform Fund (PERF). This session aims to clarify how the fund is being utilized to enhance educational outcomes across the state. Additionally, committee members will delve into policy recommendations generated by an artificial intelligence (AI) working group, specifically formed in response to a legislatively requested memorial. This intriguing intersection of technology and education could signal a shift in how educational policies are shaped in New Mexico.
The day will also feature insights into teacher preparation from NMHU. Given the critical role teachers play in the educational experience, understanding and improving their training is essential for overall student success.
Thursday, July 24, unfolds with a focus on mathematics. LESC staff, collaborating with the Public Education Department (PED) and the state’s Math and Science Advisory Council, will present policy options aimed at improving math education. This is particularly timely, as many students across the state continue to face challenges in math competency. The committee will also be updated on initiatives surrounding high-impact tutoring, which has shown significant promise in boosting student performance.
In another vital discussion, staff from the Legislative Finance Committee (LFC) will present a recent program evaluation regarding prekindergarten quality and educational outcomes. This evaluation is crucial for understanding how early childhood education impacts long-term academic success. Furthermore, the Early Childhood Education and Care Department (ECECD) will share findings from a recent study on workforce wages and salary structures, shedding light on the compensation framework for early childhood educators.
The final day of the meeting, Friday, July 25, will see LESC staff, together with representatives from PED, a Public Education Commission (PEC) member, and Albuquerque Public Schools (APS), discuss charter school governance and support. With charter schools increasingly becoming a part of the educational landscape, it is vital to explore governance structures that ensure accountability and quality. Additionally, updates will be provided on the ongoing Martinez-Yazzie lawsuit and the implications of federal funding for education, topics that have been at the forefront of educational discussions in recent years.
For those interested in further information about the committee meeting, the LESC newsletter, InformED, offers concise stories on agenda items and is typically available a few days prior to the meeting. You can access it at https://www.nmlegis.gov/Entity/LESC/Newsletter. Additionally, the committee meeting can be streamed online at http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00293/harmony, and reports discussed during the meeting will be accessible as handouts at https://www.nmlegis.gov/Entity/LESC/Committee_Information.