With the State’s budget the main focus of this year’s session, it will be important to keep an eye on proposed legislation to balance the budget by cutting K-12 education. Early indicators suggest New Mexico is $500 - $700 million in the hole. We often see public education as one of the first on the chopping block due to the size of its budget.
Governor Bill Richardson outlined his plan to reduce spending and balance the budget for fiscal year 2011. In addressing a joint-session of the legislature in his last ever State of the State address, he stated boldly that “education must remain our top investment”. His words may be reassuring, but the fact is public education has had to face reduced spending even when the Governor has vehemently opposed cutting K-12 funds.
Governor Richardson realizes the reality that cuts to K-12 education may be made, which is why he offered the solution that cuts must start with the administration and not affect education spending. Albuquerque Public Schools Superintendent, Winston Brooks, stated any more cuts will directly impact students. APS has laid out a strong legislative agenda which includes opposing additional budget cuts.
New Mexicans are speaking out. The advocacy group Better Choices New Mexico started the 9 ways in 9 days campaign last Tuesday to propose nine ways to raise revenue to prevent further budget cuts. The message from the Governor was clear – “budget cuts are not an excuse for giving up responsibility to educate our children”.
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