State leaders in New Mexico have taken a number of steps to advance high school transformation, starting with the establishment of policies that enable students to earn credit toward graduation through demonstrations of competency across all content areas. In January 2022, the New Mexico Department of Education published the “New Mexico Comprehensive College and Career Pathways Assessment Report,” which served as the launching pad for the state’s “NM Innovation Zones” initiative, which has high school transformation at its core. During the 2023-24 school year, 47 high schools and school systems received funding to participate in the initiative to rethink pathways for college and career readiness, grounded in “grassroots solutions with wisdom from local communities.” The number of participating high schools and school systems increased to 51 in 2024-25, with two statewide coalitions supporting participating schools and systems through their change process.
To build on these efforts, state leaders could consider developing a Portrait of a Graduate reflecting the durable skills and competencies that all New Mexico graduates should have by the end of high school. State leaders might also explore opportunities to provide every New Mexico student with access to advanced coursework—such as dual credit or Advanced Placement courses—as well as quality work-based learning and apprenticeship opportunities.
