HOUSE MEMORIAL 49

48th legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2008

INTRODUCED BY

Don Tripp

A MEMORIAL

RECOGNIZING THE IMPORTANCE OF INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION AT ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY SCHOOLS AND AT HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS.<StartFT> <EndFT>

 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

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.

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