Story perspectives

New Mexico Sees Reading Gains, But Math Stalls

10/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

New Mexico's Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla reported that reading proficiency among elementary and middle school students rose to 44% in 2025, up from just over one-third three years prior.
The state achieved a 10-point increase in reading proficiency, particularly benefiting historically struggling groups.
Despite these gains, math proficiency stagnated, with high school SAT scores dropping from 16% to 12%.
New Mexico plans to improve math instruction through early screening and increased legislative funding.
In Oregon, disparities in test scores remain, with Woodburn students scoring the lowest across subjects.

History

Historical Context

The New Mexico Education Reform Act of 2016 allocated $1.5 billion to enhance public education, particularly for underserved populations. This initiative reflects ongoing efforts to address educational disparities that have persisted since the state's admission to the union in 1912. Recent improvements in reading proficiency to 44% highlight progress, yet challenges in math scores underscore the need for continued investment in educational strategies.

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Story summary

New Mexico's Public Education Secretary Mariana D. Padilla reported that reading proficiency among elementary and middle school students rose to 44% in 2025, up from just over one-third three years prior.
The state achieved a 10-point increase in reading proficiency, particularly benefiting historically struggling groups.
Despite these gains, math proficiency stagnated, with high school SAT scores dropping from 16% to 12%.
New Mexico plans to improve math instruction through early screening and increased legislative funding.
In Oregon, disparities in test scores remain, with Woodburn students scoring the lowest across subjects.

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