Did You Know New Mexico Students Can Choose Humane Dissection Alternatives? Just Ask!
New Mexico students from Kindergarten to Grade 12 do not have to dissect animals in the classroom. Educators are required to provide an animal-friendly and environmentally friendly dissection alternative to old-fashioned and inhumane animal dissection.
In 2005, New Mexico Public Education Department (PED) adopted a policy requiring educators to provide alternatives for any student who opposes animal dissection for ethical, moral, cultural, or religious reasons.
Read the full text of the New Mexico State Board of Education Policy regarding dissection choice here.
Making The Switch Is Easy—Just Ask!
- Respectfully let the teacher or other school administrator know you and your student are requesting a dissection alternative in line with the New Mexico PED policy (sample email text below)
- If the teacher, the school, or the district has no planned dissection alternative, contact APNM so we can help ensure the student’s rights are preserved
Sample Email or Letter Text:
Dear [Teacher or Administrator’s Name],
My student, [Student Name], really enjoys [Class Name for example: Biology II] and is learning a lot.
Will there be an animal dissection element? [Student Name] wishes not to dissect animals and is exercising [her/his] right to an alternative as is allowed by the New Mexico PED policy.
Can you let me know the preferred alternative for students who oppose animal dissection and how [Student Name] can access this tool?
Thank you for all you do for the students.
[Your Name]
We’re Here To Help!
For additional resources, call APNM’s Cruelty Helpline 1/877-5HUMANE or email Gene Grant at gene@apnm.org
