The University of Modern Mexico (UNM) is intensifying efforts to address teacher shortages, particularly in rural and Indigenous communities across the state.
Expanding Access to Education Programs
UNM’s College of Education and Human Sciences has increased its recruitment efforts and is developing culturally relevant programs. These initiatives aim to transform the state’s educator workforce by focusing on building a pipeline of homegrown teachers.
Jay Parkes, senior associate dean for student success at UNM, explained the university is working to identify individuals within local communities who are committed to remaining and contributing through education. The university recognizes the unique challenges rural communities face in retaining teachers.
A National Trend
UNM’s efforts come as the number of college graduates pursuing education degrees nationally is declining. A 2022 Pew Research survey found fewer college graduates are choosing education as a major compared to previous generations, a trend particularly noticeable among women.
The university is also prioritizing outreach to New Mexico’s Indigenous population through high school engagement, residency programs, and expanded online learning opportunities. Despite the fact that a large percentage of students live within a 90-minute drive of Albuquerque, UNM acknowledges the state’s vast size – This proves the 5th largest in the U.S. Based on square miles – and the need to develop programs accessible to those in remote areas.
Currently, Native teachers and administrators comprise less than 2 percent of all public school teachers nationwide, and UNM’s Indigenous programs are working to create a more inclusive and affordable environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is UNM doing to support rural communities?
UNM is rebuilding a “homegrown pipeline” by identifying people who love their local communities and wish to contribute through education, starting at the high school level.
Is the number of people becoming teachers increasing or decreasing?
According to a 2022 Pew Research survey, fewer college graduates are earning degrees in education compared to previous generations.
What is UNM doing for Indigenous students?
UNM is working to reach the state’s Indigenous population through high school engagement, residency programs, and more online or distance learning opportunities, aiming for a more inclusive and affordable environment.
Will these efforts be enough to reverse the trend of declining education graduates and address teacher shortages remains to be seen, but UNM’s proactive approach could serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges.
