Santa Fe Standard

At the December 19, 2024 meeting of the Santa Fe Public Schools (SFPS) Board of Education, the board approved the adoption of two locally designated graduation credits under House Bill 171 (HB 171). This bill was adopted by the New Mexico Legislature during its 2024 session. It prescribes a total of 22 credits for graduation, with two additional elective credits to be determined by each school district.

Superintendent Hilario “Larry” Chavez, along with Deputy Superintendent Vanessa Romero and Capital High School Principal Jaime Holladay, presented details about the new graduation requirements to the board and recommended two locally designated credits.

A significant change introduced by HB 171 is that Algebra 2 is no longer mandatory for graduation. However, SFPS will still offer it as an option. The updated requirements establish two pathways: incoming freshmen from the year 2025-26 onwards will follow new guidelines, while current high school students will adhere to existing credit requirements.

The decision on the two locally designated credits was made collaboratively with input from staff, high school principals, students, and families. Principal Holladay conducted a survey via Remind text messages and email to gather feedback from stakeholders.

The top recommendations were Seminar—a course focused on foundational skills for high school success—and Financial Literacy—a course providing essential life skills in personal finance management. Seminar is currently offered at three SFPS high schools and will launch at Santa Fe High School next year. Approved by the Public Education Department (PED) as an elective credit, it covers time management, study skills, goal setting, career exploration, and organizational skills. It targets ninth-grade students but can accommodate transfer students nearing graduation.

Financial Literacy is presently offered as a math credit but may also count as an elective credit. Its focus includes budgeting, saving, understanding credit and debt, investment basics, and personal financial planning. Aimed at juniors or seniors, it helps apply math skills in real-world contexts.

During discussions, board member Sarah Boses asked about potential future course changes and seminar timing. Superintendent Chavez confirmed ongoing evaluations would occur over time and emphasized individualization of seminars to meet diverse student needs.

Chavez noted that all sections of Financial Literacy are currently full with waiting lists. The motion to approve Seminar and Financial Literacy as locally designated graduation credits passed unanimously.