Rep. Debra Sariñana (D-Albuquerque)

STATE News:

SANTA FE — The House unanimously passed HB 13 Thursday, the Teacher Residency Act, which would ensure New Mexico schools can retain a diverse and well trained workforce.

HB 13 appropriates money for a teacher residency fund, so that new teachers will receive guided training from a veteran teacher while receiving a stipend to avoid financial hardship.

“This bill creates a pipeline to recruit and retain top-notch teachers for New Mexico schools,” said Debra Sariñana (D-Albuquerque). “This would be a game changer for teachers and students in our state.”

The bipartisan bill is sponsored by Representatives Sariñana, Joy Garratt (D-Albuquerque) and T. Ryan Lane (R- Aztec) and Senators William Soules (D-Las Cruces) and Mimi Stewart (D-Albuquerque). 

“This provides an affordable and tremendously supportive pathway for those pursuing teaching as a second career or entering the profession as a fourth year education student,” Rep. Garratt said. “Rather than taking out student loans or trying to juggle family responsibilities with school work and a job, individuals will be able to focus fully on their teacher residency because of this financial stipend.”

The Roundhouse is open to the public for the session. Proof of full COVID-19 vaccination will be required to enter the building. Members of the public can also view floor sessions and committee meetings of this 30-day legislative session on the New Mexico legislature’s Webcasts tab, and provide comment via phone or Zoom as directed on the daily schedule.