ReleasedTime.org Representing Released Time Bible Education: Off School Premises, On School Time State-By-State Analysis
Back to States List | Back to Main Site

 © 1999-2010 School Ministries, Inc.
101 Rice Bent Way #6 / Columbia, SC 29229 Phone: 803-772-5224
Released Time Laws and Guidelines for
New Mexico
Updated July 2009
Jump to:
SUMMARY for New Mexico
General Information The first step is to gather as much information as you can about New Mexico's Released Time statute, what, if anything, is being done with Released Time in the state, and how a Released Time program may address state educational objectives (e.g. self-esteem, values education). Determine who will make the decision whether to allow a program and make an appointment to see that person. If the principal refers you to the school board, you would be wise to meet individually with school board members before presenting the concept at a school board meeting. You will want to consider models from other states as New Mexico allows up to one hour each day for Released Time religious instruction.

Keep in mind that school officials are not required to approve a program. However, with a carefully crafted approach and with statutory recognition, you should expect success in gaining approval for the program.

 

Department of Education Website New Mexico Public Education Department

Website: http://www.ped.state.nm.us/

 

DETAILS for New Mexico
Statutes New Mexico compulsory attendance law requires that all children, ages 6-16 (inclusive), must "attend a public school, a private school, or a state institution." N.M. STAT. § 2-12-2

New Mexico, in addition, expressly allows Released Time in N.M. STAT. § 2-12-3. Any student, with the consent of his parents, may be excused from public school in order to participate in religious instruction. The student may not be excused for more than one hour each school day at a time period not in conflict with the academic program of the public school. All excuses are subject to the approval of the local school board. Religious instruction cannot be conducted on school property nor can the local school board or its employees assume responsibility for the instruction.

 

Regulations Each school board has the discretion to establish their own Released Time programs and guidelines.

 

Alabama   Alaska   Arizona   Arkansas   California   Colorado   Connecticut   Delaware   District of Columbia   Florida   Georgia   Hawaii   Idaho   Illinois   Indiana   Iowa   Kansas   Kentucky   Louisiana   Maine   Maryland   Massachusetts   Michigan   Minnesota   Mississippi   Missouri   Montana   Nebraska   Nevada   New Hampshire   New Jersey   New Mexico   New York   North Carolina   North Dakota   Ohio   Oklahoma   Oregon   Pennsylvania   Rhode Island   South Carolina   South Dakota   Tennessee   Texas   Utah   Vermont   Virginia   Washington   West Virginia   Wisconsin   Wyoming