NMSU College of Education
The College of Education held an inaugural Challenge Coin Welcome Ceremony for the freshmen class. Students are invited to return the second year to receive a second coin, the third year for the third coin; and most importantly to graduate and receive the fourth coin. We want to make an impression on the importance of their educational adventure from the very beginning. We want to grow teachers in New Mexico. The Grow Your Own Teacher and Teacher Preparation Affordability scholarship supports aspiring teachers. Whether they are enrolled in a teacher preparation program, working as an educational assistant, or recently have been inspired to teach after a career outside the education field, the scholarships provide up to $6,000 per year for up to 5 years for individuals who meet certain criteria.
The Early Childhood Research Institute signed a contract ($600,000) with a wonderful donor who has a love for early childhood education. Facilities has completed the estimate and construction will start soon on the ground floor of O’Donnell Hall. The Institute will elevate research and creativity, support and expand graduate programs, and amplify our outreach to state, national and global communities.
The NM legislature has generously given NMSU College of Ed funding to house a southern NM Autism Center. NM families have been waiting 2-3 years just for a diagnosis; therefore, this is a very important addition to Southern New Mexico. We have a funder who is generously helping the center be the best and gives us a naming opportunity.
The Electronic Caregiver Virtual Reality Lab is open now and reflects the partnership between the Arts and Sciences College and our College. It is a fascinating lab that has the latest in technological tools as well as sources for research.
We are hosing the 27th International Re-conceptualizing Early Childhood Education conference; we have almost 400 participants representing over 25 different countries. Previous conferences have been in New Zealand, Hong Kong, UK, and Canada; therefore we are honored to be the host this year.
Mathematically and Scientifically Connected Communities at the College of Education has partnered with the NM Legislature and NMPED to pilot a two-year Master’s program for currently licensed elementary teachers to become mathematics and science specialists across K–6. The program of study integrates and focuses on mathematical, scientific, and instructional competencies according to content knowledge for teaching, pedagogical knowledge for teaching students mathematics and science, which includes leadership skills.
You have heard of a smart home, but have you heard of a smart classroom? We have one in O’Donnell Hall! Room 130 has been remodeled and equipped with monitors, laptop connections, and adjustable TV stand wheeled-mounts. New multi-color chairs now frame the tables, and there are additional marker-board panels throughout the room.
The STEM Outreach Center is also blooming with good news. The center forms partnerships with school districts to leverage resources for improving math and science learning for students across the state. Outreach and/or research is woven within these programs to inform effectiveness and accessibility for students, particularly in rural and isolated areas. Our extensive experience and valued reputation allows us to continue reaching under-served populations. We are partnering with LCPS to expand the after-school programs offered across the districts and will be starting this grant in spring, 2020.
The Mental Health Clinic is getting a makeover in that we have new technology as well as remodeling that includes new artwork, new furniture, and new floor design. It is more pleasing to the eye as well as being a nice place for our CEP students to complete their practicums.
About the SUCCESS Partnership:
The SUCCESS Partnership is an education initiative founded in 2013. It is a diverse group of over 100 cross-sector organizations comprised of parents, education professionals, nonprofit organizations, businesses, regional partners and community leaders who are committed to providing education in Dona Ana County. The collaboration serves to achieve improved outcomes in education from prenatal to career readiness. The partnership is supported by the nonprofit organization, Ngage New Mexico.