NEW MEXICO

New Mexico's dropout prevention and recovery policies have been governor-led. Governor Bill Richardson created the Truancy Prevention Program in 2003 and the Dropout Prevention Grant Programs in 2006. The latter were focused on promoting new models and identifying best practices throughout the state.

New Mexico began reporting on dropouts in its annual accountability report with the enactment of SB 394 in 2003. In 2009, it began reporting the National Governors Association’s cohort graduation rate, but has yet to include the rate in its state accountability system.

New Mexico raised the compulsory attendance age to 18 in 2007. Students are entitled to a public school entitlement age until age 21.