SANTA FE – Nearly 400 teachers will be receiving student loan forgiveness this year through the state’s Teacher Loan Repayment Program, part of New Mexico’s ongoing effort to build and strengthen the teacher pipeline.
The agency awarded funding to 387 new teachers, adding to the 529 teachers who were already receiving benefits through the loan forgiveness program. The program launched in 2013 as an effort to draw more teachers to New Mexico’s classrooms.
The program offers licensed New Mexico teachers up to $6,000 a year in student loan repayment in exchange for a two-year commitment to serve in a New Mexico school. It supports educators working in high-need schools and subject areas, including STEM, career technical education, bilingual and early childhood education, special education and schools serving students from low-income families.
“New Mexico teachers dedicate their careers to helping students reach their full potential—and they deserve the same support from us, said Higher Education Secretary Stephanie M. Rodriguez. Expanding this program means more educators can focus on teaching, not worrying about looming student debt. This is an investment in our teachers, our students and the future of New Mexico.”
The program is supported by $4.92 million appropriation for Fiscal Year 2026 and continues to grow in response to the state’s demand for qualified and dedicated teachers.
“By providing debt relief to nearly 400 dedicated educators working in classrooms across New Mexico, we are lifting a burden that too many have carried alone, said Secretary of Public Education, Mariana D. Padilla. This investment honors their commitment, strengthens our schools and reaffirms that when we support our teachers, we support every student’s future.”
Applications for the Teacher Loan Repayment Program open June 1 and end August 1. For more information about loan repayment programs in New Mexico, visit hed.nm.gov or call the state’s Financial Aid Help Line at 1-800-279-9777.