This bill aims to enhance the quality of education in New Mexico by increasing the minimum salaries for teachers, school counselors, and school administrators, while also mandating the inclusion of the science of reading in public post-secondary teacher preparation programs. Specifically, it establishes a new section in Chapter 21 NMSA 1978 that outlines the requirements for teacher preparation programs to include structured literacy and scientifically based reading instruction. The bill defines key terms related to reading instruction and emphasizes the need for evidence-based practices, particularly for English language learners and students with dyslexia. Additionally, it requires teacher preparation programs to provide supervised field experiences and to develop standards that align with the science of reading.

Furthermore, the bill amends existing sections regarding licensure for teachers, specifying the minimum salaries for level one, level two, and level three-A teachers, with level one teachers' salaries set at $55,000, level two at $65,000, and level three-A at $75,000 for a standard nine and one-half month contract. It also outlines the conditions for obtaining and maintaining these licenses, including mentorship and performance evaluations. The provisions of this act are set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-10A-7, 22-10A-10, 22-10A-11
Final Version: 22-10A-7, 22-10A-10, 22-10A-11