New Mexico
New Mexico has implemented several literacy policies aimed at improving reading proficiency among its students. The state's approach to literacy education focuses on evidence-based instruction, early intervention, and support for struggling readers. One key policy is the New Mexico Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts, which outlines the skills and knowledge that students need to develop in order to be successful readers, including phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
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New Mexico provides training and support for educators in evidence-based literacy practices, such as balanced literacy instruction, explicit instruction in foundational skills, and the use of data to inform instruction. The state has established the New Mexico Public Education Department's Literacy and English Language Arts Bureau to provide guidance and support to educators and promote evidence-based literacy practices.
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New Mexico uses a statewide assessment, the New Mexico Standards-Based Assessment (SBA), to monitor student progress in reading and identify areas where additional support is needed. The state's Response to Intervention (RTI) framework provides a systematic approach to identifying and supporting struggling readers, with tiered levels of intervention based on student needs.
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The New Mexico Public Education Department also partners with local organizations and agencies to promote literacy development through initiatives such as the New Mexico Reads to Lead program and the New Mexico Early Literacy Implementation Project. These programs aim to support literacy development among students and families, particularly those in low-income communities. Additionally, the state has established the New Mexico Early Learning Guidelines, which focuses on promoting early literacy development among young children in the state.
New Mexico Student Score Gaps:
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This data represents a decline from the 2019 percentage of 4th grade students not reading at the proficient level, which was 76%.
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Data was not reported for Black students in 2022, because reporting standards were not met.
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In 2022, Hispanic students had an average score that was 24 points lower than that for White students. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (27 points).
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In 2022, male students in New Mexico had an average score that was lower than that of female students' by 9 points.
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In 2022, students who were eligible for the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) had an average score that was 32 points lower than that of students who were not eligible. This performance gap was not significantly different from that in 1998 (30 points).
Information from the NAEP website for 2022 4th grade reading scores.
NEW MEXICO'S EVIDENCE-BASED CHAMPIONS
NM EVIDENCE-BASED ORGANIZATIONS
These organizations are committed to promoting evidence-based reading practices, providing professional development opportunities for educators, and supporting students in developing strong reading skills.
New Mexico Public Education Department
https://webnew.ped.state.nm.us
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New Mexico Council of Teachers of English
https://www.facebook.com/nmcte/
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New Mexico Literacy Institute
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The International Dyslexia Association - Southwest Branch