Learn How to Become a Principal, Superintendent, or Other Administrator in New Mexico with a Doctorate or Master’s in Educational Leadership

New Mexico’s public education system is on the mend.

Mired for years by poor student outcomes, New Mexico has long struggled to create a PreK-12 school system that didn’t land the state somewhere near the bottom of any list that ranked public school education in the U.S. Criticized for its quality of education, graduation rates, achievement gaps between races, and much more, the Land of Enchantment has been anything but when it comes to its public education system.

But complacency here has been replaced with fortitude, and the state’s think tank, Think New Mexico, is making serious inroads and experiencing impressive gains. In short, Think New Mexico, which essentially serves as the state’s roadmap to success, has become an outstanding example of education reformation in action.

In the last few years alone, Think New Mexico has been the brains behind the state’s PreK expansion… its full-day kindergarten program… increased funding for principal pay and training… and funding measures to kickstart teacher residency programs. Their legislative agenda is full and showing no signs of slowing down, which is music to the ears of the state’s PreK-12 student population and to dedicated, motivated educators like you. In fact, there may be no better time than now to move forward with your career and, like Think New Mexico, turn your plans into action.

A move into a principal or superintendent role is in your sights, which means you’ll need to earn a master’s, educational specialist, or doctoral degree in education and administration. This next step in your career will allow you to continue to work for the same public school system where you first became a teacher while also allowing you to assume top-tier roles, earn a bigger paycheck, and effect positive change in new and different ways.

How to Become a Principal or Superintendent in New Mexico – School- and District-level Educational Leadership

To become a principal or superintendent in New Mexico, you’ll need to earn an Educational Administrator (PreK-12) License through the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED).

But first you’ll need to hold a current Level 2 or Level 3A Teacher License or a Level 2 or 3 Instructional Support Provider License.

Once you meet this requirement, you can begin taking the steps to become a principal or superintendent in New Mexico.

Step 1. Earn a Minimum of a Master’s Degree and Complete an Educational Administration Program

To become a principal or superintendent in New Mexico, you must earn a minimum of a master’s degree and complete an Educational Administration Program of at least 18 graduate hours. The program must also include an apprenticeship or internship of at least 180 clock hours.

Fortunately, there are many master’s, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees available that include the coursework and practical requirements necessary for licensure. And many of these programs are offered in partially or fully online formats to accommodate the needs of busy, working educators like you.

These programs are often designed as: