New Mexico education policy director resigns over remarks

By CEDAR ATTANASIO
Associated Press / Report for America

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A top education adviser serving the New Mexico Legislature has resigned over insensitive remarks she made about Native American students in 2019. Legislative Education Study Committee director Rachel Gudgel had apologized for the remarks and complied with disciplinary measures over the past year. That included a temporary suspension and professional coaching. But Native American lawmakers and advocacy groups continued to raise concerns. Gudgel resigned Wednesday, and her deputy was appointed by the committee to lead education policy research efforts for next year’s legislative session. About 10% of New Mexico’s students are Indigenous.