Small Schools Need Your Help
House Bill 147 is a bill that has the potential to save small schools across New Mexico. The bill offers reasonable conditions that would provide adequate funding for small schools in New Mexico, yet despite this, the bill has been given no attention at the state level. In order for this bill to be heard, it has to be ruled germane, otherwise, the bill is considered irrelevant and undeserving of a congressional hearing. HB 147 has not been considered germane, and will never be germane if it does not receive outspoken public support.
Why HB 147 Is Important to Small Schools Like Jefferson Montessori Academy
Charter schools like Jefferson Montessori Academy offer a more comprehensive and adaptable education system to students who struggle with public schools. Charter schools are smaller than public schools with a larger staff, meaning that students receive more individual attention than they would at significantly larger public schools with relatively smaller staffs. Charter schools also benefit from reduced instances of bullying and violent outbursts, as the small student population allows educators to handle conflicts more handily and creating a welcoming and familial environment. Lastly, charter schools like Jefferson Montessori Academy are cost-efficient and readily accessible to low-income families.
How You Can Help
1. Address your email to ryan.stewart@state.nm.us and stephanie.rodriguez3@state.nm.us.
2. In the subject line, write House Bill 147, or HB 147.
3. Write what you would like to see HB147 become germane in order to get a fair hearing. Last year, devastating cuts were made to small school size adjustments were enacted, meaning charter schools would be unable to generate enough profit to maintain operations while providing adequate education for students. HB147 still recognizes a reduction in small school size but allows schools like ours to sustain programming for students.
4. Then, go into specifics of the impact this has on your school. Include the full amount of the cut and what will happen to the staff at your school and services to students if HB147 is not enacted.
5. To conclude, ask the Governor and Secretary Stewart to give a message to HB147 to provide fair hearings on this issue.
We can not stress enough how important it is that you write this email as soon as possible. The livelihoods of our teachers and the futures of our children stand to be jeopardized. We’ll have directions up on our Facebook page for the general public to get involved today.
