New Mexico announces first-ever funding for CS teacher professional development!

Earlier this month, Gov. Lujan Grisham signed New Mexico’s $7 billion budget. The budget included the state’s first ever funding for computer science professional development — $400,000 will be available through the end of the next fiscal year, including $200,000 ongoing.

This victory was made possible thanks to a strong advocacy coalition of state officials, local organizations, and national partners. Our legislative champions, Rep. Debbie Sariñana and Sen. Jacob Candelaria introduced legislation to create a computer science professional development program and a joint memorial, declaring intent to call for a state computer science plan. The New Mexico Public Education Department was publicly supportive of computer science during legislative session, understanding the significance of teaching students this critical subject.

Organizational partners included: Code.org, Computer Science Alliance, CSTA-New Mexico, KW Consulting, Microsoft and New Mexico Tech Council. Our teachers were also tremendous advocates! Albuquerque Teachers Federation, AFT New Mexico, and NEA New Mexico, representatives testified in support of the computer science bills.

This funding sends a strong message across New Mexico how important computer science is in the state and the broad appeal it has among a diverse education community.

Our coalition looks forward to continue working with Gov. Lujan Grisham and the Public Education Department to ensure successful implementation of the computer science professional development program and growing the number of students with access to computer science education in New Mexico.

-Paige Prescott, Executive Director
Computer Science Alliance