Millions slated for failing schools

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - More than $3 million is heading to New Mexico schools that have received a "D" or "F" under the new grading system.

Governor Susana Martinez made the announcement today at a statewide "New Mexico Kids First" workshop for school administrators and staff in Albuquerque.

The money will be divvied up between schools and districts in a variety of ways from professional development and training for teachers to programs that are working at individual schools.

Schools will be able to submit proposals for technology that they believe will instill positive change or maybe an instructional tool that can be replicated.

One of the programs schools can apply for is called the "School Turnaround Specialist Program" through the University of Virginia. Laguna/Acoma High School started the program last summer and saw a nearly 22 percent increase in math scores and 7 percent increase in reading.

The Turnaround program focuses on accountability and that requires administrators to get up from their desks and visit classrooms.

Superintendent Kilino Marquez of the Grants/Cibola County School District was surprised to find out he had a lot to learn about what really happens in the classroom, and he makes sure every administrator in the district is spending as much time in the classroom as possible.

Another example of how funds will be spent is $300, 000 to pay for a study of how "A" schools spend money on programs and compare that with lower-performing schools.