The bill establishes a tiered salary system for school nurses in New Mexico, aligning their minimum salaries with those of teachers at corresponding levels. It introduces a new structure for school nurse licensure, creating three levels: Level One, Level Two, and Level Three, each with specific qualifications and requirements. Level One is a provisional license for beginning registered nurses, requiring mentorship and evaluation, while Level Two and Level Three licenses are granted based on experience and demonstrated competencies. The bill also mandates that the minimum salary for each level of school nurse corresponds to that of teachers at the same level.

Additionally, the bill includes provisions for the certification of school nurses by the National Board for Certification of School Nurses, allowing for an increase in program units for those certified. It specifies that the number of program units for certified school nurses will be calculated at one and one-half times the number of licensed school employees certified by the national board. The bill emphasizes the importance of mentorship and evaluation for school nurses, ensuring that they meet competency standards to maintain their licensure and employment.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-8-18
Final Version: 22-8-18