Free sessions in multiple cities June 19-23
New Mexico adults interested in earning their high school equivalency diploma are invited to join the New Mexico Higher Education Department for free informational sessions on the National External Diploma Program taking place throughout the state next week.
Sessions will take place Monday through Friday, June 19th through 23rd in the following cities:
- Monday, June 19: Las Cruces
Doña Ana Community College – 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Tuesday, June 20: Grants
New Mexico State University - Grants – 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Wednesday, June 21: Farmington
San Juan College – 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Thursday, June 22: Roswell
Eastern New Mexico University - Roswell – 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. - Friday, June 23: Albuquerque
Central New Mexico Community College – 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
A virtual session will also be announced. Those interested in attending are encouraged to register via this link: New Mexico NEDP Information Session Preregistration.
While New Mexico adults have historically had the option to pursue High School Equivalency credentials (HSEs) by passing the GED or HiSET exams, the NEDP program provides an option for New Mexicans to attain a high school equivalency diploma. The program also enables students to demonstrate skill mastery through skills assessments. As a hands-on learning program, NEDP assesses the skills of adults and out of school youth, and evaluates reading, writing, math, and workforce readiness skills as applied in the real world. Participants have the option to complete the program remotely, in person, or in a hybrid environment.
“We are proud to offer a competency-based, workforce-focused pathway to an adult diploma in New Mexico,” said Amber Gallup, Adult Education Director at the New Mexico Higher Education Department. The NEDP is competency-based and rigorous, but also offers flexibility for those who want or need to work at their own pace, online, or one-on-one with an advisor. The NEDP joins the GED and HiSET examinations as an inclusive third option for high school equivalency.”
Last year, New Mexico began recognizing adult diplomas awarded under the National External Diploma Program as valid secondary credentials and joined ten other states in offering the program. Ten adult education programs and community organizations now offer the NEDP option in New Mexico, and the Higher Education Department is inviting more partners to become providers. Any program or organization interested in becoming an NEDP program provider is invited to attend the sessions and learn more.
"The NEDP provides a necessary alternative pathway to a high school equivalency credential for adult learners. High stakes testing is not a realistic option for some learners, particularly those who suffer from severe test anxiety. The NEDP opens doors for these students who might otherwise decide to give up," said Jamie Trujillo, Executive Director of the New Mexico Adult Education Association.
According to national program statistics, 90 percent of NEDP graduates were either employed, attending college, or enrolled in a training program after completing the program.
Nearly 15 percent of New Mexico adults currently lack a high school diploma or equivalency. High school diplomas and equivalency credentials help New Mexicans meet minimum requirements for employment opportunities, admission to colleges, universities, and trade schools, and eligibility for military service. Last year, 1,885 New Mexico adults earned a high school equivalency credential, a number that is expected to increase as New Mexico emerges from the pandemic.
On average, those with a high school diploma or equivalency earn nearly $10,000 more annually than those without the credential and could experience a 53 percent increase in income over ten years compared to their counterparts.