Severo Martinez

Affiliation

New Mexico Public Education Department

Biography

Severo Martinez, Senior Manager, NM Literacy and Humanities Bureau Severo Martinez serves as the Senior Manager of the Literacy and Humanities Bureau at the New Mexico Public Education Department (NMPED). In this role, he leads statewide efforts to strengthen literacy instruction, including the design and implementation of New Mexico’s Structured Literacy initiative, which ensures that all educators receive training grounded in the science of reading. Through this work, he coordinates professional learning opportunities, supports districts in adopting evidence-based practices, and aligns policy and classroom instruction to improve outcomes for all students. A lifelong educator, Severo began his career as a teacher in a Dual Language program in Albuquerque, where he experienced firsthand the power of culturally and linguistically responsive teaching to open doors for students. Coming from a family of educators, he has long understood the vital role teachers and parents play in shaping the future of communities. His passion lies in supporting educators, equipping them with the tools they need to succeed, and witnessing the transformative impact of strong instruction when students thrive and perform at their highest potential. At NMPED, Severo has worked across multiple divisions, including Assessment and School Improvement, before stepping into his current leadership role. Since 2018, he has directed the Literacy and Humanities Bureau, where he has expanded the state’s literacy vision, advanced professional learning, and strengthened policy alignment to ensure equitable access to high-quality instruction for every student in New Mexico.