New Mexico reading proficiency up 10 points since 2022, state says
State assessment results show reading proficiency in grades 3–8 rose to 44% in 2025, up 10 points since 2022. Math and science scores were mostly flat.
Nearly half of grades 3–8 now read at grade level as literacy push expands — math and science see little change
Organ Mountain News report
SANTA FE - Nearly half of New Mexico elementary and middle school students now read at grade level, up from just over one-third three years ago, according to statewide results released Oct. 14.
Reading proficiency in grades 3–8 climbed 10 percentage points since 2022 to reach 44% in 2025. Students in grades 3, 6 and 8 posted the largest one-year gains on the New Mexico Measures of Student Success and Achievement, the Public Education Department said.
“These results confirm that the state’s investments in early literacy and the science of reading are working,” Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla said. “We’re seeing the payoff in classrooms across the state.”
Gains were strongest among groups that have historically lagged. Native American students improved 13 points, Hispanic students 10 points and English learners 8 points, narrowing achievement gaps. Third-grade proficiency rose 8% in a year. Sixth- and seventh-grade rates increased 6% and 5%.
Officials tied the gains to structured literacy adopted in 2020, teacher training in grades Pre-K through 5 and expanded summer reading programs that served more than 16,000 students over two years. The assessment covers 89 districts, 104 charter schools and roughly 50,000 educators and staff statewide.
Math and science showed little change. High school math proficiency on the SAT declined from 16% in 2022 to 12% in 2025, while SAT reading and writing improved across student groups. Science scores in grades 5, 8 and 11 were largely flat.
Padilla called for evidence-based investments in math and science similar to literacy, including early math screening, coaching and professional development, stronger educator-prep methods, year-round high-dosage tutoring and hands-on, language-integrated instruction.
“Our literacy investments are producing results,” Padilla said. “We need sustained focus and funding in math and science to ensure all students graduate ready for college and career.”
Las Cruces man accused of putting neighbor in chokehold for up to 20 minutes — Police say a weekend dispute between neighbors turned violent and left one man facing charges.
Lawsuit accuses Doña Ana County jail of using inmates as ‘training props’ in violent overnight raids — A new federal filing alleges deputies used detainees in mock drills inside the detention center.
Las Cruces man accused of sending threatening text messages to woman, claiming he ‘beat three murder cases’ — Investigators say the suspect sent a string of violent messages before being arrested.
