Expanding the Pool of Teachers Policy
Although it does not place restrictions on usage, New Mexico limits the providers of its alternate routes.
New Mexico is commended for having no restrictions on the usage of its alternate routes with regard to subject, grade or geographic areas.
The state only permits institutions of higher education to provide alternate route programs. Alternate route providers are required to meet the same accreditation standards as traditional preparation programs.
Encourage diversity of alternate route providers.
New Mexico should specifically authorize alternate route programs run by local school districts and nonprofits, as well as institutions of higher education. A good diversity of providers helps all programs, both university- and non-university-based, to improve.
New Mexico recognized the factual accuracy of NCTQ's analysis but pointed out that the Public Education Department is working on a rigorous rulemaking process to allow district and nonprofit authorization.
NCTQ looks forward to reviewing the state's progress in future editions of the Yearbook.