The New Mexico Higher Education Department plans to prioritize adult education investments during the 2023 fiscal year by funding assistance initiatives for higher education student tuitions and helping teachers in need of student loan assistance, according to Government Technology's site.

"New Mexicans deserve the chance to succeed, no matter where they come from or what challenges they face," the New Mexico Higher Education Department wrote in a tweet. "By making free college a reality, supporting our teachers, and investing in informed decision making, we can help all New Mexicans."

The agency proposes that $48 million to be allocated to the Opportunity Scholarship, which grants full tuition to 25,000 to 35,000 students, as well as $11.5 million for an adult education/ literacy program, $5.2 million for general agency operations costs, $5.2 million for agency operations and general costs and $3 million for the state’s Teacher Loan Repayment Program (TLRP). 

Aside from the financial aid, HED will request additional funds to continue developing the state’s longitudinal data system, intended to open workforce possibilities for individuals who pursue higher education. In 2019, an overwhelming 79% of students obtained employment, and 15% of that group pursued higher educational programs, Gov Tech reported.

Educators who work in high-need specializations can receive up to $6,000 to pay down student loans. The specializations include bilingual education, early childhood education, special education, teaching science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and career technical education courses, among others.

“The program has been a lifeline for veteran teachers who acquired debt prior to the availability of the New Mexico Lottery Scholarship and other state scholarships now available for aspiring educators,” the HED announcement stated.