School Choice Week began in New Mexico and across America this Sunday, with the goal of raising awareness about the options that parents have for their children's education.

The Week will feature 253 events and activities across the Land of Enchantment State, including open house events at schools, school fairs, homeschool information sessions, and other celebrations. In addition, a celebration is planned on Friday, January 26 at the Albuquerque Convention Center and Civic Plaza.

Nationwide, 32,240 events and activities are being organized to raise awareness during National School Choice Week (Jan. 21-27, 2018), and nearly 7 million Americans are expected to participate. It will be the largest series of education-related events and activities in U.S. history.

The Week brings attention to the different education environments that are available for New Mexico’s more than 500,000 children. For example, families in New Mexico can choose from traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling. The state's public school open enrollment policy is one of the nation's broadest and most accommodatingThe state also offers tuition-free, public online schooling.

"These events will celebrate all the forms of school choice—both those present here in New Mexico, and those that have yet to come to our state. In all cases, these school choice options help motivate students in the classroom, bringing newfound enthusiasm that can translate into a lifelong love of learning," said Kelly Callahan of New Mexico Coalition for Charter Schools.

Governor Susana Martinez issued an official proclamation recognizing Jan. 21-27 as New Mexico School Choice Week. In addition, the cities of Deming, Milan, Bosque Farms, and Santa Clara have issued proclamations recognizing School Choice Week in their community.

Celebrated since 2011, National School Choice Week is an independent public awareness effort. The Week is nonpartisan and nonpolitical, and it is not related to any legislative advocacy campaign.

“School Choice Week in New Mexico provides a unique opportunity for parents to evaluate the K-12 education options for their children,” said Andrew Campanella, president of National School Choice Week. “We are grateful to the many schools, homeschool groups, community organizations and families working to raise awareness this week about opportunity in education, in a positive and inclusive way.”

To download a guide to school choice in New Mexico, or to learn more about featured events in the Land of Enchantment State, visit https://schoolchoiceweek.com/states/new-mexico.

For information on events planned near you, please send us an email with information about your coverage area to pressoffice@schoolchoiceweek.com.

National School Choice Week is an independent public awareness effort designed to shine a spotlight on effective education options for children. National School Choice Week celebrates all types of school options, including traditional public schools, public charter schools, public magnet schools, private schools, online academies, and homeschooling. Learn more at www.schoolchoiceweek.com or highlight school choice on social media using hashtag #schoolchoice.