Teacher preparation includes the completion of an accredited teacher education program. This matrix provides schools and institutions that are New Mexico state approved programs for the preparation of professional educational personnel:

NMApproved Programs.xls

Because this information changes regularly, you should contact each school directly to ensure the teacher licensure programs are still available.

Alternative Teacher Licensure or Teacher in Residence Programs allow candidates to be hired in a high need public school prior to completing licensure requirements.  Candidates are typically paid a salary during the apprenticeship.  The NM Alternative Licensure Process allows you to teach as an intern while you learn and earn your Level 1A teaching license.

3 Easy Steps (The following steps may be taken one at a time or simultaneously)

1. Apply for Teacher Internship License http://www.ped.state.nm.us/Licensure/index.html

          �This process involves taking three tests. See www.nmta.nesinc.com to register

·       �You may choose the Alternative by Program or OPAL (Online Portfolio for Alternative Licensure)

·       �If you choose the Online Portfolio for Alternative Licensure (OPAL), you may complete the process independently, or seek support by applying to the NM Transition to Teaching program (http://www.teachnm.org/t2t_about.html ). See information in number 3 below.

2. Apply for Employment in a NM School District

·       �You should look for teaching position in the content area of your degree and work experience in which you have at least 30 credit hours at a bachelor’s level

Note: high-need areas for teaching are special education, math, science, TESOL, and bilingual education.

3. If you plan to teach in a High Need District/School, apply for NM Transition to Teaching program: 

·       �The NM T2T program will provide you with extra support (i.e. covering the cost of reading courses, OPAL submission, portfolio coaching, mentorship, workshops, and NMTA fees) as long as you make a commitment to teach in a high need district/school for three years after you receive your Level 1A teaching license

For a directory of state approved Alternative Licensure programs, application materials, eligibility requirements, and other details, visit http://www.ped.state.nm.us/Licensure/2010/index.html

Many universities offer online or distance learning teacher preparation programs.  When considering online and distance learning programs, ask:

• Does the program license teacher candidates in your state?
• Is your state reciprocal with the program's state?  Some online programs license you in one state, such as Arizona or Florida, and you will need to transfer that license back to the state in which you desire licensure or certification.  This may require additional application or testing procedures.
• Does the program offer financial aid for online courses?  Federal financial aid (e.g., Stafford and Perkins loans) is only applicable to certain accredited online programs.