NOTE: As provided in LFC policy, this report is intended for use by the standing finance committees of the legislature.  The Legislative Finance Committee does not assume responsibility for the accuracy of the information in this report when used in any other situation.

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(Parenthesis ( ) Indicate Expenditure Decreases)

Duplicates/Conflicts with/Companion to/Relates to

SOURCES OF INFORMATION

Commission on Higher Education (CHE)

State Department of Education (SDE)

SUMMARY

Synopsis of Bill

This bill appropriates $164.0 from the general fund to the Commission on Higher Education to support a faculty technology mentor program at public two-year post-secondary educational institutions statewide. Using Albuquerque TVI and San Juan College programs as models, selected faculty from each institution may attend a summer and winter training institute to develop expertise in contextual learning. Each institution receiving funds from the program shall provide an equal amount of funding match.

Significant Issues

According to the SDE, inadequacies exist in the delivery of course content using interactive media tools. Professional development opportunities are not readily available to college faculty.

FISCAL IMPLICATIONS

The appropriation of $164.0 contained in this bill is a recurring expense to the general fund. Any unexpended or unencumbered balance remaining at the end of FY01 shall revert to the general fund.

ADMINISTRATIVE IMPLICATIONS

The CHE notes an impact as the administrator of the program.

OTHER SUBSTANTIVE ISSUES

According to the CHE, this program would encourage professional development as individuals receiving training are required to return to their local community and share their expertise with faculty and area public school teachers.

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