Happy School Choice Week! NM ranks 43rd in new report on education freedom

With so many emergencies facing New Mexico in its short 30-day session (medical provider shortage, road funding, and more) the State’s failing education system is not on the agenda for reform, sadly. That’s because MLG and a vast majority of the Democrats who control New Mexico would rather create another NEW failed government program (free childcare) than make sure that existing programs like our costly K-12 education system actually work.

A new report from the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) ranks New Mexico 43rd nationally on education freedom. The existence of charter schools is one of the few bright spots in New Mexico’s education menagerie.

Unfortunately, while state after state (20 at last count) have decided to participate in the new federal school choice tax credit program created by Congress this summer New Mexico Gov. MLG has already stated that New Mexico would NOT participate. This is strange when you consider that it wouldn’t cost the state budget a nickel and your state is dead last in education.

Then there is the attempt to limit virtual learning. In the Legislative Finance Committee Budget (p. 446) the following appears, “For fiscal year 2027, no school district may reorganize to create a school, a school district or school program in which the majority of students attend school off campus during instructional days and no new charter school may be authorized in which the majority of students attend school off campus during instructional days.”

Ironically, just a few years ago ALL New Mexico schools were “virtual” and New Mexico’s virtual charter schools have show themselves to be increasingly popular with nearly 3,500 student enrolled in virtual schools throughout New Mexico. 

Overall, there isn’t a great deal to celebrate in New Mexico during School Choice Week as policymakers convene in Santa Fe with no significant effort to revamp our education system likely despite the State’s poor rankings. But, do take time to learn more about School Choice Week and various celebrations here. 

Or click on the image: