HISPANIC STUDENT EDUCATION & REPORTING

SB 396 amends New Mexico's Hispanic Education Act to improve educational outcomes for Hispanic students in public schools. It requires school districts to develop a systemic framework (with input from students, families, and community groups) including culturally relevant programs, bilingual initiatives, tutoring, and services to boost attendance and graduation rates. The bill mandates an annual statewide report tracking Hispanic student achievement, attendance, graduation rates, and bilingual program availability by school district. The Hispanic Education Liaison, a state position, will advise on these frameworks and five-year plans for post-secondary education.