Bill > HB156

This bill addresses teacher preparation, licensure, and salaries in New Mexico, focusing on improving reading instruction and increasing educator compensation. The legislation requires public post-secondary teacher preparation programs to incorporate the "science of reading" - an evidence-based approach to teaching literacy that includes systematic instruction in phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension. Teacher preparation programs must now offer courses and field experiences that prepare candidates to effectively teach reading, with elementary teacher candidates required to complete at least 100 hours of supervised classroom experience implementing these reading instruction techniques. The bill also establishes new minimum salary levels for teachers at different licensure levels: $55,000 for level one teachers, $65,000 for level two teachers, and $75,000 for level three-A teachers, with additional compensation for extended learning time programs. The Public Education Department will monitor teacher preparation programs and can require corrective action or withdraw state approval for programs that do not adhere to the science of reading standards. These changes aim to enhance teacher preparation, improve student literacy outcomes, and provide more competitive salaries for educators, with the provisions set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Budget and Finance, Education

https://www.nmlegis.gov/Legislation/Legislation?chamber=H&legtype=B&legno=156&year=25