April 18, 2003

SDE Sets 2003-2004 Unit Value at $2,977.23

(Santa Fe, NM)-The New Mexico State Department of Education (SDE) announced today that the 2003-2004 program unit value has been estimated at $2,977.23, an increase of $87.34 (or three percent) over last year. The unit value determines the amount of state funds provided for each New Mexico public school student for programs and services. The final determination of the unit value will be announced in January 2004.

The SDE's announcement pertains to funds appropriated for public schools by the 2003 Legislature. The estimate is based on units projected as a result of changes to the growth calculation, the addition of a fine arts program factor, the addition of a factor recognizing teachers certified by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards and the next implementation of full-day kindergarten.

"New Mexico's unit value ensures equity for all students and is the basis of our state's funding formula for public schools. The unit value allows us to address the individual needs of students and provide maximum opportunity," said Dr. Kathleen Forrer, the SDE's chief financial officer.