ABQ Times

A new initiative funded by the United States Department of Education's Office of Special Education Programs is set to enhance resources for early childhood educators and special education teachers in New Mexico's rural and tribal communities. The five-year grant will address the need for diverse professionals trained to work in these areas.

The Early Childhood Special Education Leaders in Social Emotional Learning project aims to recruit, retain, and graduate individuals who are knowledgeable about child welfare and educational needs while appreciating the strengths of tribal and rural populations. Assistant Professor Chelsea T. Morris, leading the project, emphasized the importance of equitable access to programs shaped by inclusive leaders. She is supported by Dr. Cathy Qi and Dr. David Atencio.

Jay Parkes, senior associate dean for student success at COEHS, described it as "an interdisciplinary approach" to addressing challenges faced by early childhood and special education leaders in New Mexico. The program is aligned with efforts to transform the state's education system following the Yazzie/Martinez lawsuit findings.

Key partners include Embracing Equity, the Early Childhood Network, and others. The initiative aims to provide a strong educational foundation for children with disabilities or those in rural areas.

Parkes noted a critical shortage of prepared educators for rural or tribal regions, emphasizing geographic challenges beyond major urban centers like Albuquerque.

Dr. Morris also leads other projects focused on early childhood education, funded by organizations such as the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and ECECD. These initiatives aim to foster state-level changes in mental health training and inclusive education pathways.

The grant will continue until summer 2029.