• LEAP is an alternative licensure program for teachers throughout New Mexico. 
• The LEAP program is accredited.
• LEAP is staffed by career educators who serve as instructional coaches for new teachers across the state during the cohort (LEAP) year. 
• Throughout the program, you will be the full-time teacher of record in a classroom.
• You can enter the LEAP program by applying and interviewing.
• Your program starts in July. After a pre-service (induction to teaching), you will participate in the following 11 months of professional development. 
• You will participate in a cohort model with a 200-member statewide network of new teachers who are trained monthly (in methods, virtually in the evening) and in professional development (on Saturdays, once monthly, all day, mostly in person, in three regions) during your LEAP year.
• Upon completion of LEAP, you'll receive a transcript and Certificate of Completion, along with support for applying for your Level 1 teaching license in New Mexico.

You will be the teacher of record in a New Mexico classroom throughout the program, as LEAP isn’t affiliated with any college or university. 

Program Benefits: 

• One-on-one, monthly virtual coaching
• Earn one year toward retirement
• Receive a full salary and benefits (equivalent to other first-year teachers in New Mexico)
• Options for dual-licensure
• LEAP will pay for specific endorsements and certificates after you complete the program.

The LEAP framework focuses on high-quality instruction and community-building. It covers English Language Learning strategies, behavior theory, social-emotional learning, technology integration and more. 

The LEAP program includes many opportunities for hands-on learning in your classroom, and: 

• One-on-one coaching is a key feature of LEAP in New Mexico.
• Regional training occurs twice monthly in two to three locations statewide.
• LEAP celebrates completion with a two-day conference in Albuquerque each June.
• Ongoing professional development continues through collaboration.

LEAP impacts New Mexico schools through expert-led teacher preparation, in-person and virtual development and one-on-one coaching. As an alternative licensure program, LEAP collaborates with Cooperative Education Services and the New Mexico Public Education Department. It adapts each year to meet the evolving needs of the state's education system.