New Mexico Senate confirms Mariana Padilla as public education secretary

Organ Mountain News report

SANTA FE, N.M. — The New Mexico Senate has confirmed Mariana D. Padilla as secretary of the Public Education Department in a unanimous 40-0 vote.

Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham appointed Padilla to the position in September 2024, following the resignation of former Secretary Arsenio Romero. Romero stepped down Aug. 28, 2024, after being named a finalist in New Mexico State University's search for a new president.

Until her confirmation, Padilla had been serving as secretary-designate.

“Mariana Padilla is an outstanding champion for public education in New Mexico,” Lujan Grisham said. “Her deep understanding of our state’s unique educational landscape and her work with the Children’s Cabinet will enable her to make meaningful change at PED for the benefit of our entire state.”

Padilla, a former elementary school teacher, has experience in education policy, child and family advocacy, and government leadership. Senate President Pro Tem Mimi Stewart said Padilla is focused on student improvement and has worked to improve systems at the department since taking the interim role.

“Beyond policy and leadership, Mariana understands education from a personal perspective as well—as a parent of school-aged children who wants the very best learning experience, educational and career outcomes for all children of this state,” Stewart said. “She has been deeply involved in the design and implementation of all cradle-to-career initiatives and has been a strong partner with the Legislature.”

Padilla said she is honored to serve as secretary and committed to working with educators, students and families to ensure access to a high-quality education.

“Education is the foundation of opportunity, and I am committed to working alongside our educators, students and families to ensure every child in our state receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success in school and beyond,” Padilla said.

As the former secretary-designate and now secretary, she has prioritized strengthening the educational workforce, expanding student support services, improving attendance, and advancing culturally and linguistically responsive education practices. She will continue working with school districts, tribal leaders, educators and community organizations to implement policies aimed at improving student achievement.

The Public Education Department oversees more than 800 public and charter schools, serving approximately 311,000 students statewide. Under Padilla’s leadership, the department stated it will continue efforts to address achievement gaps, increase graduation rates and expand access to educational opportunities.