Rebecca Dow, a representative for New Mexico's 38th District, said that if Louisiana and Mississippi can improve their educational outcomes, New Mexico can too. She made this statement on X on February 22.
"If Louisiana (and Mississippi) can improve their educational outcomes, New Mexico can too," said Dow, State Representative. "One state is getting education right — going back to basics."
The post highlighted an opinion piece from the New York Post discussing the 2023-2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) results. These results showed fewer students scoring well in math and reading. According to the article, Louisiana improved from 49th to 32nd overall in the NAEP results, becoming the only state to recover to pre-pandemic levels. Louisiana achieved this by focusing on fundamental skills, requiring K-3 teachers to complete a course on the science of reading, which emphasized phonics and phonemic awareness. Additionally, the state introduced math flashcards for elementary schools and mandated high-dosage tutoring for K-5 students.
Screenshot of State Representative Rebecca Dow's Feb. 22 post on X
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In the high-dosage tutoring program, students in kindergarten through fifth grade who are not performing at grade level in reading or math receive extra tutoring each week. The article also noted that Louisiana is ending "social promotion," where students are moved to the next grade level despite not meeting the previous grade's requirements. Students far behind in reading are required to repeat the year. Furthermore, Louisiana has implemented universal school choice, allowing parents to transfer their children from schools that do not focus on basic skills.
The NAEP overview for Arizona's fourth-grade students in mathematics shows an average score of 232 out of 500, slightly below the national average of 237. In reading, 53% of fourth graders scored at or above the basic level, 26% at or above proficiency, and 7% were advanced. For eighth-grade students, the average reading score was 254, below the national average of 257. About 65% of eighth-graders were at or above basic comprehension levels, with 25% at or above proficiency and 2% advanced.
Dow is a politician representing Grant, Hidalgo, and Sierra counties. After previously serving as a state representative, she reclaimed her seat in House District 38 in 2024 by defeating Democratic incumbent Tara Jaramillo. Her campaign focused on pro-business initiatives and education reform record. Dow has been recognized for her contributions to early childhood education and community service.
