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Ruling: New Mexico funding for public schools is inadequate

SANTA FE, N.M. (AP) — A state judge has ruled that New Mexico is violating the rights of at-risk students by failing to provide adequate funding for public schools.

District Judge Sarah Singleton's ruling Friday says insufficient funding leaves students "in an inadequate system" and means they'll stay there unless better programs are instituted.

Singleton's ruling on a lawsuit on behalf of students, parents and school districts doesn't specify how lawmakers and other state officials should address the issue.

However, Singleton gives the defendants until April 15 to act to ensure that schools have enough funding to properly prepare students for college and work.

While lawyers for the plaintiffs hailed the ruling, it's unclear whether state officials will appeal.

Department of Public Education spokeswoman Lida Alikhani didn't immediately respond to a request for comment Saturday.