SENATE MEMORIAL 53

51st legislature - STATE OF NEW MEXICO - second session, 2014

INTRODUCED BY

Jacob R. Candelaria

A MEMORIAL

DECLARING FEBRUARY 15, 2014 "TAKE BACK OUR PUBLIC SCHOOLS DAY" IN THE SENATE.

     WHEREAS, New Mexico's parents, children, educators and communities have come together to "keep the promise" for New Mexico's future by improving access to the high-quality public education that New Mexico's communities deserve; and

     WHEREAS, all children deserve the promise of a bright future that is possible only with a great education; and

     WHEREAS, public education should be well-rounded and culturally relevant, with an emphasis on critical thinking and developmental skills; and

     WHEREAS, a well-rounded public education system must embrace and promote learning opportunities through art, music, science, reading, mathematics, bilingual education and electives; and

     WHEREAS, well-paid, highly qualified and experienced educators, who are focused on student-centered learning opportunities, are crucial to a successful public education system; and

     WHEREAS, children should arrive at school healthy, motivated and inspired and should have access to high-quality early education; and

     WHEREAS, children learn best in an environment that is compassionate and welcoming, and that promotes equity and collaboration among parents, educators and students; and

     WHEREAS, the goal of a high-quality public education system requires fully funded safe schools that provide community-based wraparound services, including mental health services, health care, meal programs that address the nutritional needs of students, technology, after-school programs and necessary school resources, such as libraries and supplies; and

     WHEREAS, the vision of a high-quality public education system encompasses well-maintained, inspiring classrooms and small class sizes to encourage and foster a strong student-educator relationship; and

     WHEREAS, the success of this vision must acknowledge poverty as a systemic issue and requires broad policy action and courageous leadership aimed at promoting fair employment with livable wages and increased access to vital services;

     NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that February 15, 2014 be declared "Take Back Our Public Schools Day" in the senate; and

     BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this memorial be transmitted to keep the promise for New Mexico's future.

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