John, 

When I hear that New Mexico families are struggling, I step up to that plate to help, no matter what the task is. That's why I spent the day as a substitute teacher at Santa Fe's Salazar Elementary School last week. 

If you don't have children in kindergarten through 12th grade, it might sound strange to you that the Governor stepped in to help teach. But the truth is, the entire country is facing a teacher staffing shortage so severe that schools are shutting down for weeks at a time.

I'll do whatever it takes to keep our kids in school here in New Mexico, because they deserve the very best education. I served as a substitute as part of our new initiative that encourages the National Guard and state workers to sign up to become substitute teachers. 

To fix this teacher staffing shortage long-term, I'm also introducing legislation that would raise compensation for educators. In doing so, we'll attract the best teachers in the region and encourage more New Mexicans to follow this essential career path.

While I work to provide the best education for our state's next generation of leaders, I want to hear your insight. Please, tell me what you think about this issue before my poll closes at midnight tonight:

None of my work to strengthen our state's schools would be possible without your grassroots support. 

Thank you,

Michelle Lujan Grisham