Teachers eligible for $6K

Teachers who owe student loans could receive up to $6,000 a year to help pay them off, thanks to the Teacher Loan Repayment Program at the New Mexico Higher Education Department.

“My loans were taken out prior to 1998, when a lot of the scholarship and forgiveness programs were enacted, so all these years I have been paying on them. When this opportunity came up, it really helped me,” said Heather Nevarez, a graduate of New Mexico State University who teaches math in

Las Cruces Public Schools.

“Now I can retire without student loan debt,” she said.

Eligible recipients must make a two-year commitment to teaching to receive the award, which can be renewed for additional two-year cycles. A preference will be given to teachers who graduate from a New Mexico college or university. Minority teachers are especially encouraged to apply.

“There are a variety of state scholarship and financial aid programs that have become available to educators in recent years, but there are some who entered the profession prior to these opportunities being available,” said Stephanie Rodriguez, New Mexico Higher Education Department Secretary. “With the Teacher Loan Repayment Program, these teachers can have their debt reduced or even eliminated.”

Eligible teachers must be U.S. citizens, New Mexico residents for 12 or more consecutive months, hold a New Mexico teaching license, and have taught at least three years in the state.

They must also teach in a highneed position, which include bilingual education; early childhood education; special education; science, technology, engineering or math (STEM); career technical education (CTE); teaching in a low-performing school serving economically disadvantaged populations.

“This administration has done so much to improve the educator ecosystem, and gives classroom teachers the respect and support they deserve,” said Ryan Stewart, secretary of the New Mexico Public Education Department. “This loan repayment program is another way we are encouraging the best and brightest teachers to serve in high-needs areas while paying down their student loans.”

The NMHED also oversees the Grow Your Own Teachers and Teacher Preparation Affordability Scholarships, and the Teacher Loan-for-Service Program, which also provide financial assistance to current and aspiring teachers.

The Teacher Loan Repayment Program, which was established by the Legislature in 2013, supports around 300 teachers per year, and is currently accepting new applications and renewals for the upcoming year. The application closes on Aug. 1 at 5 p.m.

To apply, visit