Measures would expand reading reforms, tighten math standards and make the Office of Special Education permanent

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE - New Mexico lawmakers wrapped up the 2026 legislative session with bipartisan approval of three education bills aimed at improving reading instruction, strengthening math standards and restructuring special education oversight.

Senate Bills 29, 37 and 64 passed both chambers, with SB 29 and SB 37 receiving unanimous votes.

Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla said the measures build on recent gains in reading proficiency and seek to raise instructional standards statewide.

Reading reforms

Senate Bill 37 requires school districts to use research-based literacy instruction aligned with what educators refer to as the “science of reading.” State assessment data show reading proficiency has increased by 10 percentage points since 2022, according to the Public Education Department.

Starting in the 2027 - 2028 school year, the department must assign literacy coaches to elementary schools in the bottom quartile statewide for reading performance. Coaches would serve three-year terms.

The bill also directs the department to create grade-specific at-home reading plans for families and includes targeted support for English learners and students in bilingual or dual-language programs.

Math changes

SB 29 sets new standards for math instruction and teacher preparation. Beginning July 1, 2027, new elementary and secondary math endorsements will require six additional credit hours focused on math methods.

The measure also requires districts and charter schools to conduct universal math screening for students in kindergarten through third grade within the first 30 days of the school year, starting in 2027 - 2028.

Special education restructuring

SB 64 formally establishes an Office of Special Education within the Public Education Department and creates a deputy secretary position focused solely on special education services.

The office has operated under executive order since 2023. The bill places it in statute, making it permanent.

It also requires the department to develop a uniform statewide online system for individualized education programs, or IEPs.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham has until March 11 to sign the bills.