Programs and Services
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Early Childhood
Coaching and professional learning for PreK Educators across New Mexico’s mixed delivery system.
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Structured Literacy
Science-based reading instruction with coaching, training, and implementation support for K–5 schools.
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Special Education
IEP guidance, diagnostics, and related services including SLP, OT, PT, psychology, social work, and billing support.
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Universal Design for Learning
Flexible, inclusive teaching practices with training, coaching, and collaboration to ensure all students thrive.
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School Based Mental Health
In-person counseling, behavioral support, and coordinated care to promote student well-being and academic success.
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Transition & Career Pathways
Career readiness, work experiences, and self-advocacy support for students with disabilities, ages 14–21.
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District & Program Support
Data-Driven Planning, Grant Management and Program Implementation
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Event Coordination
Expertly planned and executed events that bring New Mexico’s educational initiatives to life through thoughtful coordination, design, and on-site support.
Early Childhood
Empowering children and educators through Practice-Based Coaching (PBC) and Professional Learning.
About the Program
The Early Childhood program at CREC, funded by the NM Early Childhood Education and Care Department, supports preschool educators statewide through Practice-Based Coaching (PBC). With a total of 51 coaches, including coordinators, the program reaches classrooms in NM PreK, Special Education 619 IDEA, Title I, and Head Start, helping educators strengthen teaching practices and create high-quality learning environments.
What We Offer
Practice-Based Coaching (PBC)
One-on-one coaching for preschool educators statewide using a goal → observe → reflect cycle.
Professional Learning
Structured Literacy, LETRS-EC, and Early Literacy Strategies in Action with multiple cohorts.
Support Across Settings
Serving PreK, SPED 619 IDEA, Title I, and Head Start classrooms.
Collaborative Planning
Collaborative goal-setting, action planning, focused observation, and feedback aligned to program and classroom priorities.
Who This Program Serves
Our program supports more than 900 preschool educators across New Mexico, reaching school-based and community-based classrooms including NM PreK, Special Education 619 IDEA, Title I, and Head Start.
Educator Voice
I'm thankful for my coach who not only guided me, but also created a safe space where I could grow in my teaching practices. This growth has directly impacted myself and my students. – Susan Wenning-Blomquist
Professional Learning
Planning your year? The ECECD has published the 2025–2026 guide (EN/ES) for licensed preschool administrators, teachers/long-term subs, and educational assistants. This guide outlines all professional learning requirements. Some trainings are provided directly by CREC and are listed below. Other trainings are offered by partner organizations, with full details available in the guide.
You can manage your professional learning through your Registrant Access Module (RAM) account, which provides access to your current registrations, past registrations, certificates, and lets you update your account information.
(Year 2) LETRS-EC: Online Modules
📅 View LETRS-EC cohort dates
- Cohort 01 — Tue–Fri, Oct 14–17, 9:00 a.m.–noon. Online Register
- Cohort 02 — Mon–Thu, Oct 20–23, noon–3:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 03 (with stipend) — Sat, Oct 25; Nov 8 & 22; Dec 6, 9:00 a.m.–noon. Online Register
- Cohort 04 — Wed–Thu, Nov 5–6, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. In-person Register
- Cohort 05 — Mon, Nov 10; Dec 1; Jan 12; Feb 2, 3:00–6:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 06 — Mon–Thu, Nov 17–20, 1:00–4:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 07 — Wed, Dec 3 & Dec 10, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. In-person Register
(Year 2) Introduction to Structured Literacy
Optional but not mandatory
Choose one cohort (multiple dates/times Aug–Dec).
📅 View individual cohort dates
- Cohort 01 — Wed, Aug 27, 11:00 a.m.–noon. Online Register
- Cohort 02 — Wed, Sep 3, 3:00–4:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 03 — Fri, Sep 12, 9:00–10:00 a.m. Online Register
- Cohort 04 — Tue, Sep 16, 1:00–2:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 05 — Mon, Sep 22, 4:00–5:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 06 — Thu, Oct 16, 5:00–6:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 07 — Fri, Oct 24, 9:00–10:00 a.m. Online Register
- Cohort 08 — Mon, Oct 27, 4:00–5:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 09 — Tue, Nov 4, 12:00–1:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 10 — Thu, Nov 13, 8:00–9:00 a.m. Online Register
- Cohort 11 — Fri, Dec 5, 11:00 a.m.–noon. Online Register
- Cohort 12 — Wed, Dec 10, 10:00–11:00 a.m. Online Register
(Year 1) Introduction to Structured Literacy
Prerequisite for Oral Language Connection and Phonological Awareness Connection trainings
Choose one cohort (multiple dates/times Aug–Dec).
📅 View individual cohort dates
- Cohort 01 — Wed, Aug 27, 11:00 a.m.–noon. Online Register
- Cohort 02 — Wed, Sep 3, 3:00–4:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 03 — Fri, Sep 12, 9:00–10:00 a.m. Online Register
- Cohort 04 — Tue, Sep 16, 1:00–2:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 05 — Mon, Sep 22, 4:00–5:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 06 — Thu, Oct 16, 5:00–6:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 07 — Fri, Oct 24, 9:00–10:00 a.m. Online Register
- Cohort 08 — Mon, Oct 27, 4:00–5:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 09 — Tue, Nov 4, 12:00–1:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 10 — Thu, Nov 13, 8:00–9:00 a.m. Online Register
- Cohort 11 — Fri, Dec 5, 11:00 a.m.–noon. Online Register
- Cohort 12 — Wed, Dec 10, 10:00–11:00 a.m. Online Register
(Year 1) Early Literacy Strategies in Action
The Oral Language Connection to Early Literacy & The Phonological Awareness Connection to Early Literacy (online and some in-person options).
Both The Oral Language Connection to Early Literacy and The Phonological Awareness Connection to Early Literacy are Prerequisites for LETRS training
📅 View The Oral Language Connection to Early Literacy cohort dates
- Cohort 01 — Wed, Sep 10, 10:00–11:30 a.m. (Day 1); Sep 17 & 24, 10:30–11:30 a.m. Online Register
- Cohort 02 — Fri, Sep 26, 9:00 a.m.–noon. In-person (Albuquerque) Register
- Cohort 03 — Tue, Oct 14, 21 & 28, 4:00–5:30 p.m. (Day 1), then 4:00–5:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 04 — Mon, Nov 3, 9:00 a.m.–noon. In-person (Las Cruces) Register
- Cohort 05 — Wed, Nov 12, 19 & Dec 3, 1:00–2:30 p.m. (Day 1), then 1:30–2:30 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 06 — Thu, Nov 13, 20 & Dec 4, 9:30–11:00 a.m. (Day 1), then 10:00–11:00 a.m. Online Register
- Cohort 07 — Thu, Dec 11, 9:00 a.m.–noon. In-person (Albuquerque) Register
- Cohort 08 — Mon, Dec 15, 9:00 a.m.–noon. Online Register
📅 View The Phonological Awareness Connection to Early Literacy cohort dates
- Cohort 01 — Wed, Sep 10, noon–1:30 p.m. (Day 1); Sep 17 & 24, noon–1:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 02 — Fri, Sep 26, 1:00–4:00 p.m. In-person (Albuquerque) Register
- Cohort 03 — Wed, Oct 15, 22 & 29, 4:00–5:30 p.m. (Day 1), then 4:00–5:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 04 — Mon, Nov 3, 1:00–4:00 p.m. In-person (Las Cruces) Register
- Cohort 05 — Wed, Nov 12, 19 & Dec 3, 3:00–4:30 p.m. (Day 1), then 3:00–4:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 06 — Fri, Nov 14, 21 & Dec 5, 9:30–11:00 a.m. (Day 1), then 10:00–11:00 a.m. Online Register
- Cohort 07 — Thu, Dec 11, 1:00–4:00 p.m. In-person (Albuquerque) Register
- Cohort 08 — Mon, Dec 15, 1:00–4:00 p.m. Online Register
(Year 2) Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling-Early Childhood (LETRS-EC)
📅 View individual cohort dates
- Cohort 01 — Tue–Fri, Oct 14–17, 9:00 a.m.–noon. Online Register
- Cohort 02 — Mon–Thu, Oct 20–23, noon–3:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 03 (with stipend) — Sat, Oct 25; Nov 8 & 22; Dec 6, 9:00 a.m.–noon. Online Register
- Cohort 04 — Wed–Thu, Nov 5–6, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. In-person Register
- Cohort 05 — Mon, Nov 10; Dec 1; Jan 12; Feb 2, 3:00–6:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 06 — Mon–Thu, Nov 17–20, 1:00–4:00 p.m. Online Register
- Cohort 07 — Wed, Dec 3 & Dec 10, 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m. In-person Register
Early Literacy Strategies in Action: Read Alouds
📅 View cohort dates
Early Literacy Strategies in Action: Becoming a Writer
📅 View cohort dates
Early Literacy Strategies in Action: Alphabet Knowledge
📅 View cohort dates
Pyramid Calming Kit Training: Training for Preschool Teachers
📅 View cohort dates
Practice with Pyramid: A Hands-On Approach
Prevent, Teach, and Reinforce for Families
Ongoing enrollment. Online Register here
Prevent, Teach, and Reinforce: Young Children
Ongoing enrollment. Online Register here
Reducing Implicit Bias
Ongoing enrollment. Online Register here
Transition Bootcamp
Ongoing enrollment. Online Register here
Trauma-Informed Care and the Pyramid Model
Ongoing enrollment. Online Register here
Wellness: Taking Care of Yourself
Ongoing enrollment. Online Register here
Helpful Resources
Structured Literacy
Science-based literacy instruction, coaching, and schoolwide implementation support.
About the Program
The Structured Literacy Initiative partners with New Mexico schools to implement evidence-based reading instruction rooted in the science of reading. Funded by the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED), the program provides schools with expert literacy coaches and grant funding to ensure classroom-ready support and sustainable implementation.
Literacy Support Schools
These schools receive an assigned literacy coach who visits regularly, helps establish systems for schoolwide implementation, and delivers targeted professional learning as needed. They also receive grant funds to purchase science-based materials, provide staff training, and secure other resources to strengthen literacy instruction.
Model Schools
These schools demonstrate full implementation of structured literacy practices and systems-level transformation, ensuring every learner has equitable access to all components of literacy.
Schools apply annually to participate and may be designated as a Literacy Support School or a Model School based on readiness, need, and coach availability.
What We Offer
Literacy Coaching
On-site and virtual coaching for K–5 educators to plan, teach, and refine structured literacy practices.
Professional Development
Targeted training in the science of reading; such as phonemic awareness, phonics, encoding, language comprehension, assessment use, and evidence-based reading strategies, deep data dives, backward lesson planning and goal setting.
Implementation Support
Guidance on scheduling, materials, intervention, progress monitoring, and data-informed instructional decisions.
Who This Program Serves
- Kindergarten - 5th Grade Educators who are LETRS trained
- Classroom teachers delivering reading instruction
- Reading Interventionists & Instructional Coaches
- District & School Leaders supporting literacy implementation
Educator Voice
“My Coach has consistently addressed all my inquiries and provided invaluable guidance in teaching my students how to read. As of now, I find her coaching approach to be highly effective, and I have no inclination to make any changes.” – NM Teacher
Helpful Resources
Special Education
Special Education technical assistance and services that strengthen support for students, families, and schools.
About the Program
The Central Region Educational Cooperative (CREC) partners with districts and state-supported programs to provide guidance on special education practices and requirements. Our team supports schools in implementing effective systems such as Student Assistance Teams (SAT), Multi-Layered Systems of Support (MLSS), and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS).
By working directly with educators and administrators, we help ensure compliance while promoting equitable, evidence-based strategies that meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities.
What We Offer
IEP Support & Compliance
Guidance and assistance for IEP development, implementation, and legal compliance.
Related Services
Speech, occupational, and physical therapy services, along with diagnostic, mental health, and billing support.
Professional Development
Workshops and trainings on IDEA, FAPE, MLSS, PBIS, SAT, disability-specific needs, and best practices in special education.
Who This Program Serves
- Special Education Teachers & Staff
- School & District Administrators
- Related Service Providers
Helpful Resources
- NMPED Office of Special Education
- NMPED Office of Special Education — Technical Manuals
- NMPED Licensure
- New Mexico Regulation & Licensing (Related Service Providers)
Universal Design for Learning
Empowering New Mexico educators to design flexible, inclusive learning environments that give all students equitable access and opportunities to thrive.
About the Program
The NM UDL program supports educators in moving beyond theory into classroom practice. By joining the project, teachers and leaders gain support to embed UDL principles into daily instruction- reducing barriers, fostering engagement, and cultivating expert learners. This work is grounded in research and aligned with efforts to ensure equitable access for all students in New Mexico.
What We Offer
Professional Learning
Workshops and coaching to support the integration of UDL into instruction and leadership practices.
Implementation Support
Guidance for planning, adjusting, and sustaining UDL at the classroom, school, and district level.
Statewide Collaboration
Opportunities for educators to share practices, resources, and success stories across New Mexico.
Who This Program Serves
- Pre K–12 Classroom Teachers and Students
- School and District Leaders
- Instructional Coaches and Support Staff
- Educators seeking to design more flexible and engaging instruction for all learners
Helpful Resources
School-Based Mental Health
Promoting student well-being and resilience through accessible school-centered mental health and behavioral support services.
About the Program
Our School Based Mental Health Program provides free, in-person mental health and behavioral support services to students attending schools in the Belen, Estancia, Jemez Valley, Magdalena, Mountainair, Quemado and Vaughn school districts
What We Offer
Comprehensive Mental Health Services
A team of licensed, qualified professionals provides in-person, evidence-based mental health and behavioral support services to PreK–12 students in the seven districts served.
Student Success & Well-Being
The program supports the health, well-being, and academic success of students through accessible and comprehensive care on school campuses.
Collaborative, Coordinated Care
The SBMH Help Team works with students, families, staff, administrators, and community partners to ensure services are collaborative and care is coordinated.
Who This Program Serves
- Students PreK–12th grade
- Teachers (with classroom behavioral consultation and support)
- Student teens, school staff, and administrators (with Mental Health First Aid training)
- Parents and families
Educator Voice
The CREC social workers have supported students through individual counseling, small group interventions, crisis response and collaboration with families and staff. They’ve helped improve attendance, reduce disciplinary issues, and strengthen students’ coping and problem-solving skills—results that directly benefit our school climate and student achievement. –Tanyia Montoya, Belen Middle School Principal
Transition & Career Pathways
Empowering students with disabilities to achieve postsecondary success through personalized Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS).
About the Program
CREC’s Vocational Transition Specialists (VTS) work directly with students with disabilities to prepare them for life after high school. Through both in-person and virtual support, VTS provide employment readiness training, real-world work experiences, and connections to postsecondary education or training. They also guide students in building self-advocacy skills and confidence. Specialists often meet with students on-site at schools and adapt services to meet the needs of individual learners and groups.
What We Offer
Pre-Employment Transition Services
Job exploration counseling, work readiness training, work-based learning experiences, postsecondary education counseling, and self-advocacy instruction.
Career Pathway Development
Career exploration aligned with student strengths, assistance with building partnerships, personalized work placements and accommodations, communication skills development, resume building, interview skills, and on-the-job skills development.
Family & Agency Collaboration
Support for schools in engaging families and coordinating with community agencies for smoother transitions beyond school.
Who This Program Serves
- Students with disabilities, ages 14–21, who are enrolled in school.
- Families of students with disabilities preparing for postsecondary transitions.
- Schools and community partners working alongside Vocational Transition Specialists to deliver services.
District & Program Support
Partnering with schools and districts to strengthen educational programs, systems, and leadership.
About the Program
CREC provides comprehensive support through data-driven planning, grant management, and program implementation. Our services include assistance with collecting and using data for improvement and compliance, guidance on aligning programs with funding and managing grants from start to finish, and hands-on help with launching and overseeing educational initiatives through strategic, logistical, and fiscal support.
What We Offer
Data-Driven Planning
Support with data collection, analysis, and use for continuous improvement and compliance reportingfor our partners.
Grant Management
Comprehensive grant management services include, but are not limited to: strategic planning, customized application development, system design and implementation, applicant support, review processes, applicant notifications, award distribution, compliance and fiscal management.
Program Implementation
Logistical assistance with launching, managing, and monitoring initiatives includes, but is not limited to: consulting, recruitment, participant selection processes, participant support, event coordination, purchasing and distribution, subcontracts, communication, graphics, reporting, data collection, analysis and reporting, compliance and fiscal management.
Who This Program Serves
- New Mexico Students
- New Mexico School Districts and Schools
- State Agencies
- Government Agencies
- Community Partners
- Higher Educations Institutions
Event Coordination
Delivering seamless, memorable events through strategic planning, coordination, and creative design from concept to completion.
About the Program
At CREC, we provide full-spectrum event management solutions tailored to each partner’s unique goals and audience. From strategic planning and vendor coordination to on-site execution and post-event wrap-up, our team manages every detail to ensure a successful experience. Whether it’s a small retreat or a large conference, we focus on precision, communication, and professionalism at every step.
What We Offer
Planning & Coordination
Strategic planning, venue and vendor coordination, and registration management from concept through logistics. Includes event design, budgeting, stakeholder communication, RSVPs, vendor contracts, catering, and technical support.
Program Development & On-Site Management
Comprehensive program and on-site support including agenda design, speaker coordination, day-of execution, vendor setup, and real-time troubleshooting to ensure every event runs smoothly.
Branding & Post-Event Services
Complete event branding and communications—from signage and materials to post-event surveys, photo/video summaries, and lessons-learned reports—to capture results and celebrate success.
Who This Program Serves
- New Mexico Students
- New Mexico School Districts and Schools
- State Agencies
- Government Agencies
- Community Partners
- Higher Education Institutions
How to Access Support
Have questions or need assistance with one of our programs or services? Use our general contact form and we’ll connect you with the right specialist.
Contact Us