REQUESTING THAT THE STATE DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC EDUCATION ENCOURAGE THE USE OF PHONICS IN READING IN GRADE ONE THROUGH GRADE FIVE IN THE PUBLIC SCHOOLS.

WHEREAS, it is of great importance that children in primary grades learn basic reading skills; and

WHEREAS, there is a great desire to improve the educational system in the state; and

WHEREAS, it is important to ensure that all students are taught to read by using systematic phonics instruction in grade one through grade five; and

WHEREAS, it is necessary to keep a record of a student's competencies to understand what is mastered by the student;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE STATE OF NEW MEXICO that the state department of public education encourage that students enrolled in grade one through grade five be taught using phonics in order to ensure that they learn to read and write proficiently; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that copies of this memorial be transmitted to the state department of public education and the legislative education study committee.