Transformational Learning Opportunities:

Virtual & Online Schooling:

• New Mexico does not provide a statewide virtual school but does offer students four multi-district options, including New Mexico Connections Academy, Pecos Cyber Academy, eCademy K8 and high school, and Destinations Career Academy of New Mexico. Certain school districts offer students online and blended program options. 

• The New Mexico Course Consortium is the state’s supplemental course provider. 

Digital Learning Resources:

• New Mexico’s Department of Education’s website offers resources on educational technology planning, digital tools, and professional development resources.

• Curious about your district’s internet access? ConnectK-12 provides state- and district-specific information on access to the recommended bandwidth speeds and monthly internet costs. 

Career & Technical and/or Work-based Education:

• Students are able to earn college credits through the NM Early College High School initiative, through participation in various Early College High School programs throughout the state.

• Like other states, the state’s DOE provides guidance on CTE and career pathways aligned to industry needs. Additionally, work-based learning is supported statewide.

Personalized, Competency- and/or Mastery-based Learning:

• During the 2023 legislative session, New Mexico enacted HB130, which broadens the definition of instructional hours to include diverse activities focusing on skills development and interventions. The state subsequently increased the annual instructional hours required for all schools and provided additional funding to support this extended learning time. This bill signals a shift in investment towards innovation.

• In 2022, New Mexico’s Department of Education partnered with the Los Alamos National Laboratory Foundation (LANL) to launch Innovation Zones. The Initiative provides funding to enable schools to adopt a curriculum and instruction that is meaningful, relevant, and community-oriented. This includes personalized support and leadership, graduate profiles and capstones, as well as a community-schools model. In 2023, 47 schools were named Innovation Schools and will receive awards to “implement a re-imagined school experience.”