ELED Reading Program Receives Positive Review from NM's LESC

The New Mexico Legislative Education Study Committee (LESC) recently completed a desk audit of the COEHS Elementary Education Teacher Preparation Program’s three required reading courses. The audit found that the University of New Mexico’s required coursework demonstrates clear and consistent attention to structured literacy, with a strong sequential focus that supports evidence-based reading instruction.

The Elementary Education (ELED) program received proficient or exemplary ratings in the following areas:

Domain 1: Program Content – Alignment with the Science of Reading

Domain 2: Clinical Practice and Field Experiences

Domain 3: Faculty Expertise and Continuous Improvement

When compared with other Educator Preparation Programs (EPPs) across the state, ELED scored significantly higher in all evaluated domains.

This positive review reflects a multi-year, sustained, focused effort and leadership of Dr. Rosalia Pacheco, whose work has been instrumental in strengthening the program’s alignment with evidence-based literacy practices.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, please contact:

Waunita (Penny) Zink 
Coordinator for Elementary Education Licensure Programs
Department of Teacher Education, Educational Leadership & Policy (TEELP)
zink@unm.edu