Online Schools: New Mexico

A series of colonial occupations and political strife over the course of more than 60 years prevented statehood for New Mexico after it was declared a territory of the United States. On January 6, 1912, New Mexico finally became the 47th state of the Union. Ever since, a colorful political and cultural history continues to paint New Mexico as "The Land of Enchantment," an accurate title for a state whose American Indian tribes, magnificent landscapes, and wide-open vistas continue to entice artists, travelers, and New Mexicans alike. Home to the legendary Georgia O'Keefe, whose surreal paintings captured the beauty of Abiquiu and Ansel Adams ) whose "Moonrise over Hernandez" remains one of the most famous photographs of all time) -- New Mexico has been a place for artistic and creative inspiration for well over a century

New Mexico's history of online education is perhaps just as bold and vibrant as its past. As the first state in the nation to create a comprehensive eLearning system, New Mexico's online schools include teacher professional development, over 50 K-12 curriculum courses and electives, continuing education, and workforce education. The Innovative Digital Education and Learning in Mexico (IDEAL-NM), a joint program of the New Mexico Public Education and Higher Education Departments, was announced by Governor Bill Richardson in 2006 and followed immediately by legislation which passed in the 2007 session. The school opened its virtual doors in 2008.

New Mexico's highly successful online schools provide extensive professional development for teachers, with a specific emphasis on the practices and methodology of online instruction. A uniquely inclusive school, IDEAL-NM admits students from nonpublic institutions, offering course credit for any student interested in supplemental or additional learning. Designated school site coordinators work with IDEAL-NM teachers in order to provide Instructional Educational Plans (IEPs) on behalf of students with diagnosed learning needs. Noted for its educational outreach and highly skilled teachers and professionals, IDEAL-NM has been ranked third among online schools (up from sixth) in an annual survey conducted by e.Republic’s Center for Digital Education (CDE).

Post-secondary distance learning continues to grow in the state. With the success of IDEAL-NM's online schools, New Mexico is currently expanding its flagship university's online presence. At the University of Mexico (UNM), student success is uniquely supported by the (optional) in-person mentoring and support services provided by its educational centers located in community colleges throughout the state University of New Mexico offers bachelor’s degrees in Business Administration, Dental Hygiene, Nursing, Communication, and Radiologic Sciences. Masters are now offered in Language and Literacy, Dental Hygiene, Instructional Technology, and Engineering. A doctorate in Nursing was recently added as well. The University's decision to expand its dentistry programs was made in response to the increasing number of dental hygienists in the field.

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