Bill > HB94

This bill addresses maximum class loads for kindergarten through third-grade classrooms in New Mexico, establishing a phased approach to reducing class sizes. Starting in the 2025-2026 school year, the bill mandates that kindergarten classes be limited to 20 students, with an educational assistant required for classes between 15-20 students. For first grade, the maximum class size will also be 20 students, with similar assistant requirements. The bill introduces a gradual implementation for second and third grades, with maximum class sizes of 22 students in 2025-2026 and 2026-2027, then reducing to 20 students in the 2026-2027 and 2027-2028 school years, respectively. School districts seeking waivers from these requirements must submit annual applications, demonstrate a lack of alternative classroom spaces, show a plan to increase building capacity, notify parents, and hold a public hearing. The bill also includes a $2 million appropriation from the general fund to help schools build or acquire additional classroom space to meet these new class size requirements. Additionally, the bill requires school districts to include detailed information about class loads in their educational plans and mandates reporting to the state department of education about class sizes.

Education

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=94&year=25