We believe in a future where New Mexico does not rank 50th in education. A future where every student can succeed and our public education system prepares them to read, do math, pursue meaningful college and career opportunities, and lead a life full of opportunity.

The Annie E. Casey Foundation recently released the 2026 KIDS COUNT Data Book. For the 10th consecutive year, New Mexico ranked 50th in the nation in education. The report also introduced a new Education Index Score measuring changes in child well-being since 2019. In education, New Mexico received a score of 1 out of 1,000—the lowest in the country.

The most concerning reality, however, facing our state’s education system comes not from a national ranking, but from a recent New Mexico Legislative Finance Committee report. Based on current rates of growth, the average New Mexico student will not reach grade-level proficiency in reading or math. According to the report, it would take the average fourth grader more than nine years to reach reading proficiency and 22 years to reach math proficiency—longer than the time they have left in school.

Our students deserve better. We know progress is possible. Our state has made important investments in literacy, early childhood education, tutoring, and summer learning. Still, we must do more. Progress requires urgency, accountability, and leaders willing to make education a top priority.

As we reckon with a decade of last place and the reality that the average student will not reach proficiency, we need your help to advocate for change.

How You Can Help

Sign Our Petition

New Mexico’s next governor will set the education agenda for the next four years. Sign our petition to send a clear message to every candidate: our students cannot afford another decade of last place.

SIGN THE PETITION

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We believe in a future where New Mexico does not rank 50th. Building that future will require all of us. Will you join us in demanding more for New Mexico’s students?