Research and Surveys

At NMAEYC, we believe that meaningful change starts with knowledge. Our research and survey initiatives help us better understand the needs of New Mexico’s early childhood educators, families, and communities. By gathering data and listening directly to those we serve, we are able to identify challenges, highlight successes, and inform policies and programs that create lasting impact.

This section shares the results of our ongoing studies and surveys—tools that not only guide our work, but also contribute to a broader understanding of early childhood education in New Mexico. Through transparent reporting and community-focused research, we ensure that every voice helps shape stronger outcomes for our little learners and the professionals who support them.

Homewise Executive Summary and White Paper

The Childcare Facilities Toolbox: An Analysis of Gaps and Opportunities in New Mexico

Homewise’s mission is to help create successful homeowners and strengthen neighborhoods so that individuals and families can improve their long-term financial wellbeing and quality of life.

In alignment with this mission, Homewise partnered with NMAEYC staff and contractors to develop The Childcare Facilities Toolbox: An Analysis of Gaps and Opportunities in New Mexico. This collaborative white paper highlights critical challenges and opportunities in expanding childcare facilities across the state, with a focus on supporting communities, providers, and families.

Both the full white paper and the executive summary are available below.

Income of New Mexico’s Early Childhood Workforce and the Economic Challenges They Faced During COVID-19

NMAEYC, in partnership with UNM’s Center for Social Policy, released a paper examining the financial realities of New Mexico’s early childhood workforce during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Over the past decade, the state has dramatically expanded its investment in early childhood programs—funding reached nearly $380 million in 2020, a 200% increase over 11 years. Yet, despite these historic investments, wages for most childcare workers have not kept pace. When adjusted for inflation, hourly wages actually fell between 2017 and 2019, while center directors saw notable income growth.

Based on a survey of 970 early childhood professionals, the paper explores workforce salaries, financial well-being, and attitudes toward policy interventions. The findings shed light on the ongoing gap between funding increases and the economic security of the very professionals who provide care, underscoring the need for solutions that improve retention and attract new talent.

Download the full paper below to learn more.

Refundable Income Tax Credits

Early Childhood Education Provider Reflections

A Report for the New Mexico Association for the Education of Young Children
Prepared by Tamara Grybko

In 2018, The New Mexico Association for the Education of Young Children (NMAEYC) began work to investigate how a refundable income tax credit (RTC) might be of benefit to Early Childhood Education (ECE) workers in New Mexico. This work was supported with funding from the Brindle Foundation. One feature that distinguishes an RTC from a tax deduction is that these credits are fully refundable.
That is, even if the amount of the credit is greater than the amount of taxes owed, individuals still receive refunds. The intention of the RTC would be to increase wages for New Mexico’s ECE workforce while encouraging its members to pursue higher education. “A meaningful ongoing wage supplement through a refundable tax credit can incentivize professional development/higher education…. which will encourage higher levels of education and increase wages for this ECE workforce.”