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A MEMORIAL

RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION AT

ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND AT HIGHER EDUCATION

INSTITUTIONS.

WHEREAS, the world has become increasingly

interconnected through advances in technology and

transportation, and a global perspective is critical in facing

the challenges of the twenty-first century; and

WHEREAS, the economic development of New Mexico is

increasingly linked to the global economy, and the goals of

public education and economic development should be mutually

reinforcing; and

WHEREAS, providing New Mexico's future leaders in

business, education, government and the nonprofit sector with

the broadest possible education will have a significant impact

on the nation's security, foreign policy, economic

competitiveness and economic revenue and the future leaders'

capacity for tolerance; and

WHEREAS, international education includes expanding

foreign language curricula and academic programs that address

global issues and examine other cultures; and

WHEREAS, expanding the knowledge base and using the best

research and technological breakthroughs in every field of

study require international collaboration; and

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WHEREAS, kindergarten through twelfth grade schools and

universities and colleges should be encouraged to introduce

New Mexico students to other cultures, foreign languages and

global issues and to provide opportunities to study abroad,

which will enrich students' perspectives and personal

development; and

WHEREAS, qualified students and faculty from other

countries should be encouraged to study in New Mexico to

further the free exchange of ideas, to facilitate an

appreciation of different cultures and to emphasize how

international education builds a foundation for the future of

our state and strengthens global understanding;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF

REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that it recognize

the importance of international education and encourage New

Mexico's elementary and secondary schools and higher education

institutions to meet the challenges of a global society; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be

transmitted to the secretaries of education and higher

education.