Timeline
In March 2008, New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson signed a bill establishing the first legislatively-created public arts school in the State’s history—New Mexico School for the Arts. The Public Education Commission of New Mexico [PEC] approved the School’s charter application on September 13, 2008. Click here for charter school application and the charter school approval process.
Throughout 2008 and the first quarter of 2009, substantial progress has been made in the establishment of the New Mexico School for the Arts [NMSA].
2008
Creation and approval of the policies for the School, and its nonprofit partner—School for the Arts-NM reflecting how the public/private partnership will operate as one seamless organization.
Completion of draft budgets, architectural outline of space requirements, and understanding of faculty needs.
Establishment of partnership with New Mexico Department of Cultural Affairs to utilize museums and cultural heritage sites whenever possible and establish a long-term relationship.
2009
May 2009
Production of Master Classes led by world-renowned professional artists in dance, theater, music and the visual arts held in Albuquerque.
June 2009
Production of Master Classes led by world-renowned professional artists in dance, theater, music and the visual arts held in Santa Fe.
May – June 2009
Receptions and input sessions held with Master Teachers, students and parents to access interest and discipline preferences for weeklong Summer Intensives.
July and August 2009
Production of weeklong Summer Intensives with professional artists in disciplines to be determined by student interest and input.
July 2009
Principal for the School is hired after the completion of a local and national search.
Santa Fe location for the School’s campus is finalized.
End of October 2009
Curriculum, admissions criteria and audition requirements posted on the website.
2010
Winter and Spring 2010
Auditions are held for prospective incoming students.
Fall 2010
School opens for its first year.