Starting June 1, New Mexico teachers can apply for up to $6,000 annually in student loan assistance through the state's Teacher Loan Repayment Program. The initiative, which received a record number of applications last year and assisted over 800 teachers, has seen its funding increased by $5 million this year with the support of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.
Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez stated, "The state’s Teacher Loan Repayment Program works to alleviate the financial burden of student loan debt, allowing teachers to focus on what is most important – educating our children." She emphasized New Mexico's commitment to supporting educators as they teach future generations.
Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla added that "The Teacher Loan Repayment Program is a vital investment in our educators and their future. By alleviating the burden of student loan debt, we are showing our teachers that we value their dedication to New Mexico's students and communities." Since 2020, more than 2,500 individuals have benefited from this program.
In addition to this program, Gov. Lujan Grisham has supported increased funding for the Teacher Preparation Affordability Scholarship aimed at students entering teacher preparation programs. These students may also take advantage of the New Mexico Opportunity and Lottery scholarships for tuition-free undergraduate degrees.
Awards from the Teacher Loan Repayment Program can be renewed for additional two-year cycles if recipients continue fulfilling their teaching commitments in the state. Teachers participating in the federal Teacher Loan Forgiveness program can simultaneously benefit from New Mexico’s initiative.
Eligibility requirements include being a U.S. citizen, residing in New Mexico for at least 12 consecutive months, holding a New Mexico teaching license, and having taught in the state for three years or more. Priority is given to those in high-need positions such as bilingual education, early childhood education, special education, STEM fields (science, technology, engineering or math), career technical education (CTE), or teaching at low-performing schools serving economically disadvantaged populations.
Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Monday, August 1 via the New Mexico Higher Education Department’s website at hed.nm.gov. Interested teachers can also contact the agency through email at Fin.Aid@hed.nm.gov or call toll-free at 1-800-279-9777.
