The 2026 New Mexico Legislative Session is here, and so is our chance to put students first.

As we head to the Roundhouse, we are guided by an unrelenting belief: New Mexico kids CAN succeed and that belief will drive every decision we make and every policy position we take.

This year, New Mexico has a gubernatorial election, and that means legislative advocacy matters more than ever. Lasting education policy creates stability for students by setting expectations and protections that endure, regardless of who is in the Governor’s office. That’s why this 30-day legislative session is so critical.

Can we count on you to use your voice this session? Join our VIP Advocate Team now and commit to advocating for New Mexico students.

This session, NewMexicoKidsCAN will lead as the unapologetic voice for improving student achievement. We are proud to support and pursue bold, student-centered policies that put kids first.
 

NEWMEXICOKIDSCAN 2026 POLICY PRIORITIES

Continue Building the Path to Literacy Success

Over 40% of New Mexico students are now reading on grade level, up from 36% in 2022, but major gaps remain. This session, we will support legislation that builds on recent literacy policy wins and ensures every student receives the instruction, intervention, and support they need to learn to read. This includes parent notification, Individual Reading Improvement Plans, and other proven strategies to help struggling readers succeed.

Address and Improve Math Achievement

Only 1 in 4 New Mexico students can do math at grade level. It’s time we face the numbers. This year, we will support legislation to address New Mexico’s math crisis, including requiring a K–3 math screener to identify learning challenges early, parent notification when students are behind, and individualized math support plans so students can get back on track.

Expand Access to High-Impact Tutoring

High-impact tutoring is a proven, research-backed intervention, but too few New Mexico students have access. In 2026, we will champion legislation to expand high-impact tutoring so every struggling student can receive targeted, consistent support and make real progress toward grade-level achievement.

Protect and Support the Growth of High-Quality Charter Schools

High-quality charter schools play a critical role in New Mexico’s public education system. We will continue to oppose efforts to restrict their growth while advocating for the protection of our state’s charter authorizer, the Public Education Commission.

Ensure Timely Access to Student Data

Parents and families deserve timely access to information about their child’s academic progress. This session, we will support legislation requiring the Public Education Department to release statewide assessment data by September 1, ensuring families have the information they need to make informed decisions and support their child’s learning.