New Mexico Education Department unveils strategic plan to elevate public education outcomes

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE - The New Mexico Public Education Department on Thursday released its Strategic Plan for Success, outlining goals aimed at improving educational outcomes across the state.

"The Strategic Plan for Success will serve as a clear roadmap to improved outcomes for New Mexico’s students,” Public Education Secretary-Designate Mariana D. Padilla said. “Internally, the plan will be used to ensure all of our decision-making is aligned with the goals and vision we’ve set out for the state’s public education system."

The plan emphasizes a vision for a culturally and linguistically responsive education system, aiming to meet students' social, emotional and academic needs. It identifies five core objectives — referred to as the “Big 5 Goals” — to guide the department's efforts:

• Accelerate literacy achievement: Focus on improving reading proficiency across grade levels to ensure students graduate with essential literacy skills.
• Accelerate mathematics achievement: Aim to strengthen students' critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in mathematics to prepare them for higher education and workforce demands.
• Improve student attendance: Encourage consistent attendance through increased engagement and accountability across schools.
• Increase graduation rates: Provide resources and support to help students complete high school and prepare for post-secondary education or careers.
• Foster shared accountability: Emphasize collaboration among students, educators, families, and community members in improving educational outcomes.

The department stated that the plan would be updated periodically based on new data and feedback from communities across the state.

The full Strategic Plan for Success can be accessed on the PED website.