Press Release: Court Orders New Mexico to Develop Plan to Improve Public Education for At-Risk Students
SANTA FE, N.M. – In a significant ruling on Tuesday, state district court Judge Matthew Wilson mandated that New Mexico must establish a comprehensive remedial plan aimed at enhancing K-12 education for Native American students and learners from low-income families. This order builds upon a pivotal 2018 ruling that triggered a multibillion-dollar investment spree in public education, yet acknowledged ongoing failings to adequately educate at-risk populations, which include English language learners and students with disabilities.
Judge Wilson emphasized the need for a structured plan, stating, “A court-ordered plan would provide guidance to the legislature and the executive branches of government, particularly during challenging budgetary decisions.” New Mexico’s educational outcomes have consistently ranked low nationally, with pre-existing issues like lagging test scores and graduation rates exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Yazzie-Martinez case, a legal battle originating over a decade ago, spotlighted systemic deficiencies within the state’s educational framework, primarily affecting Native American and Hispanic communities. In recent years, the administration of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham acknowledged the need for improvement, citing a remarkable 62% surge in K-12 funding since 2016, elevating the annual budget to $4.2 billion.
Public Education Department spokesperson Janelle Garcia welcomed the ruling, looking forward to collaborating on a plan that guarantees quality education for all students. The judge directed the Public Education Department to partner with the plaintiffs and engage an external expert to devise this remedial strategy, instead of a proposed legislative agency taking charge.
This new plan could extend over five years, with hopes of resolving ongoing litigation. Notably, Governor Lujan Grisham recently vetoed a bill aimed at expanding specialized schools focused on Native American language and culture, marking a contentious decision amidst the state’s educational reforms.
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