Board approves half‑credit financial literacy, expands elective choice under HB171

The Albuquerque Public Schools Board of Education on Jan. 15 approved changes to the district graduation requirements that add a 0.5 personal financial literacy credit and preserve 1.5 discretionary elective credits as allowed by House Bill 171 (2024).

Deputy Superintendent Antonio Gonzalez, who led the presentation to the board, said the changes “ensure compliance with the new law while supporting the work of the district in goal 3,” and recommended adding the half‑credit to give students “essential personal financial skills.” Associate Superintendent Mark Garcia described HB171 as a state law passed in 2024 “to modernize the graduation requirements for New Mexico students” and said the district’s advisory committee — which included teachers, students, parents and business representatives — favored preserving student choice while introducing financial literacy.

Why it matters: The board’s action responds to broad public comment and a district survey that found…