Gov. asks for $13.5 million for reading

Gov. Martinez 

Gov. Susana Martinez proposes to increase spending next year on programs to help New Mexico children learn to read. 

Martinez said Tuesday she'll recommend the Legislature provide $13.5 million to improve reading skills of students in kindergarten through the 3rd grade. 

That's an increase of $5 million over current spending on early reading initiatives. About $9.5 million will be requested for reading coaches and other services to help struggling students, $3 million for tests to identify students with reading problems and $1 million for professional development for educators to help students. T

The governor is expected to release her proposed state budget later this week.

Gov. asks for $13.5 million for reading