This bill amends Section 22-10A-6 of the New Mexico Statutes to establish a licensure endorsement in computer science for teachers across all grades. It introduces specific requirements for teachers seeking this endorsement, which include earning fifteen post-secondary course credits in computer science, passing a department-approved teacher licensure examination for computer science, and having a minimum of two years of relevant work experience. Additionally, applicants must provide validation for an industry certification related to computer science, complete sixty hours of professional development within the three years prior to applying, or demonstrate three or more years of computer science teaching experience.

Furthermore, the bill appropriates $250,000 from the general fund to the public education department for the fiscal years 2027 and 2028. This funding is designated for professional development in quantum computing aimed at teachers who are pursuing or maintaining their computer science endorsement. Any unspent funds at the end of fiscal year 2028 will revert to the general fund.

Statutes affected:
introduced version: 22-10A-6