A Key Education Decision Is Before Our Governor

For many families, education choice simply means this: parents have the freedom to choose the learning environment that best meets their child’s needs. That could be a public school, a charter school, a private or religious school, homeschooling, or a mix of educational opportunities. Education choice recognizes that children are different, and a one-size-fits-all system does not work for every student.

This conversation matters even more in New Mexico. Our state continues to struggle with low test scores, persistent achievement gaps, and an education system that too often leaves families feeling trapped. The Yazzie/Martinez ruling confirmed what parents already knew, many students are not being adequately served. Education choice gives families options when the system isn’t working for their child.

A New Opportunity for New Mexico Families

This year, a new federal Education Tax Credit Scholarship program was created, opening the door for families across the country to access K–12 scholarships. Under this program, taxpayers can receive up to a $1,700 dollar-for-dollar federal tax credit by donating to nonprofit scholarship organizations. Those donations are then turned into scholarships that families can use for tuition or other education expenses.

If New Mexico opts into the program, these scholarships could generate tens of millions of dollars for New Mexico students, all at no cost to the state and without taking a single dollar from public schools. If the governor chooses not to opt in, those same federal dollars will simply go to families in other states instead.

What Happens Next

This decision now rests with Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham. Opting in would give New Mexico families more freedom, more opportunity, and more immediate support for their children’s education. Other states, including those led by Democratic governors, are already moving forward.

At CAN, we believe parents are the primary decision-makers in their children’s lives, including their education. This is a practical, immediate way to expand opportunity and put families first.

Take Action

As of right now the governor has said that she will not be opting New Mexico into the Education Tax Credit Program. Email the governor here and urge her to put New Mexico students first.

Take Action Now!