The Application for LEAP 2021-2022 is available, apply now! 

Mission Statement

Leading Educators through Alternative Pathways (LEAP) is an intensive and innovative approach for a year-long alternative licensure program tailored to prepare teachers to be successful in New Mexico’s diverse classrooms. With the collaboration of stakeholders in education, LEAP was designed to be application-based, asking participants to immediately utilize strategies they learn, and is practitioner-focused, drawing heavily from teachers’ daily problems of practice. Thus, candidates will be required to work in a classroom setting as a teacher-of-record.

LEAP’s vision is that every teacher has foundational teaching skills, demonstrates special education best practices and that every teacher takes on the responsibility of applying research-based reading strategies. Curriculum will be standards-based, evidence-based, assessment-based, and student-based engaging candidates in an innovative approach to teacher preparation.

LEAP Curriculum and Supports

Instruction includes face-to-face and online modules (270 hours).

Candidates will be required to attend a pre-service summer institute in Albuquerque, NM, late July.

Monthly seminars in their designated region (Friday 2-6pm and Saturday 8-4pm/1 x month).

District mentor collaboration is required with candidate referrals. Additional LEAP mentor supports are available.

Candidates receive instruction in both areas and are able to test and apply for both a General AND Special Education License (candidate must be teacher-of-record to apply for each license).

Curriculum includes required reading coursework.

Program Costs

 Semester One July- December………. $1000

Semester Two January- June…………..$1000

(Includes: curriculum, instruction, feedback, mentoring and additional supports)

Application  Fee…………………………….$40

Estimated Book Cost…………………………………………….$350.00

Candidate Costs Associated with Travel for the Summer–Institute and Regional Monthly Training…..$ (lodging, meals, gas, etc.