School and District Leadership Technical Assistance and Program Evaluation Services
This grant from the New Mexico Public Education Department funds research-driven leadership and program evaluation to improve high school outcomes through innovative, student-centered strategies.
Funder: New Mexico Public Education Department
Due Dates: October 21, 2026: Proposal Due Date
Funding Amounts: Annual awards of $135,000–$175,000 per school (based on enrollment), for up to three years.
Summary: Competitive grant supporting high schools in New Mexico to implement innovative, multifaceted learning environments focused on at-risk student outcomes through career-connected pathways and student-centered supports.
Key Information: Only one application per high school site; rigorous data reporting and annual assessment required.
Description
The Innovation Zones (IZ) grant, administered by the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED), funds high schools across the state to develop and implement innovative learning ecosystems that prioritize improved outcomes for students most at risk of underperforming. The program emphasizes career and college readiness, equity, and student engagement through a three-year cohort model. Funded schools must implement seven core IZ Elements—including high-quality CTE programs of study, work-based learning, community capstone projects, dual credit opportunities, flexible scheduling, Next Step Plans, and integrated social-emotional learning—while aligning their efforts with one of NMPED’s strategic priorities (graduation rates, attendance, or academic proficiency).
