Santa Fe, NM — Representative Rebecca Dow (R- Truth or Consequences) is urging Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham to opt New Mexico into the federal Education Freedom Credit program, calling it a timely opportunity to deliver meaningful, student-centered support to families across the state.
In a letter sent Monday, Rep. Dow emphasized that the program would expand access to educational resources for students, particularly those from low- and middle-income families, without requiring additional state spending.
"Too many New Mexico students are falling behind, and too many families lack the tools to intervene when it matters most," said Rep. Dow. "This is a practical, immediate step we can take to give students the support they need to succeed."
The Education Freedom Credit would allow scholarship-granting organizations to distribute privately funded resources to eligible students, helping families access tutoring, specialized services, curriculum, transportation, and other educational supports. These resources would be available to students regardless of whether they attend traditional public schools, charter schools, or private schools.
Rep. Dow highlighted that students from families below 300 percent of the federal poverty level often face the greatest barriers in navigating the education system, particularly when additional academic support is needed. In a state that continues to rank near the bottom nationally in student outcomes, she noted that gaps in access to resources can have lasting consequences.
"This is not about shifting students from one system to another," Dow said. "It's about ensuring that every child has access to the same kinds of opportunities and resources that many families already provide on their own."
The program would be funded through private contributions incentivized by federal tax credits, bringing new investment into New Mexico without diverting existing education funding or increasing the burden on taxpayers.
Rep. Dow also pointed to the urgency of taking action, noting that early intervention is critical for student success and that delays can have lifelong impacts.
"New Mexico's students only get one chance at a quality education," said Dow. "We have an opportunity right now to expand access, strengthen outcomes, and better support families who need it most."
Rep. Dow is calling on the Governor to act without delay and opt New Mexico into the program, aligning with existing efforts to expand access and opportunity for children and families across the state.
