New Mexico Constitution Article XII - Education
New Mexico Constitution – Article XII: Education
Overview:
Article XII of the New Mexico Constitution lays out the framework for the public education system in the state. It establishes key principles such as free public education, governance structures, funding requirements, and the state's obligation to provide education to all residents, including provisions for non-English speakers and Indigenous populations.
🔹 Key Sections & Provisions of Article XII:
Section 1 – Establishment and Uniformity:
A uniform system of free public schools must be established and maintained for all children in New Mexico.
Education is to be provided free of charge for all students between ages five and twenty-one.
Section 2 – Compulsory School Attendance:
The legislature is required to enact laws to ensure that children attend school.
Section 3 – Public School Fund:
Creates a permanent school fund and ensures that interest from this fund is used exclusively for public schools.
The fund must be protected and managed for the long-term benefit of public education.
Section 4 – Control of Education:
The Public Education Department (PED) and State Board of Education (restructured over time by statute) oversee public schools.
Provides for the general supervision of schools and certification of teachers.
Section 5 – Higher Education Institutions:
Provides for the establishment and support of higher education institutions such as universities and colleges.
The management of these institutions is generally assigned to governing boards or regents.
Section 6 – Special Schools:
Allows the legislature to create and maintain schools for students with disabilities, military students, and others requiring specialized instruction.
Section 7 – Prohibition of Sectarian Instruction:
No public money or property can be used to support sectarian, denominational, or private schools.
A strong statement supporting the separation of church and state in education.
Section 8 – Bilingual and Indigenous Education:
Recognizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage, including Native American and Spanish-speaking communities.
Encourages bilingual and bicultural education programs.
📝 Summary:
Article XII ensures that:
Free and uniform education is a constitutional right for New Mexico children.
There is a dedicated funding system for public education.
Educational governance and accountability mechanisms are in place.
Religious neutrality is maintained in public education.
Cultural and linguistic diversity is respected and supported.
RELATED Blog
0 comments