Activity Director
OVERVIEW OF THE 40-Hour Basic Course for
Activity Directors & Continuing Education Policy
The 36-Hour Basic Course was approved in 1989 by the New Mexico Department of Health (DOH) as the only state-approved training course for Activity Directors at the time. The course was extended to 40-hours in 1997. In April, 1998, a revised curriculum for the course was approved once again by DOH.
Upon approval of the course in 1989, the DOH asked for the establishment of a continuing education requirement as part of the course curriculum. NMHCA instituted the policy that ACTIVITY DIRECTORS WHO COMPLETE THE BASIC COURSE ARE REQUIRED TO OBTAIN 15-HOURS OF CONTINUING EDUCATION CREDIT PER YEAR TO MAINTAIN THEIR QUALIFICATION. The policy was approved by the DOH and has been effective since 1989.
In New Mexico, Activity Directors are neither officially licensed nor certified. By completing the Basic Course, Activity Directors become QUALIFIED.
To ensure compliance, Activity Directors should follow the steps outlined below every year:
v Obtain 15-hours of continuing education annually.
v Once completed, fill out the Activity Director Request for Confirmation of Continuing Education (15-Hour Letter) form.
v Attach the form to copies of certificates of completion for the courses taken.
v Mail the form and copies of the certificates to NMHCA no later than the May 31 each year.
As part of the state approved program, continuing education hours must be accrued annually. Failure to obtain and submit your continuing education hours will result in the loss of your qualification as an Activity Director.
How do I get 15-hours of continuing education credit each year?
Courses offered by NMHCA that are appropriate for Activity Directors are automatically approved. Whether or not a course is approved for Activity Directors is stated on the educational brochures/flyers.
NMHCA offers statewide meetings each year:
v Annual Convention & Trade Show (August) Albuquerque
v Leadership Symposium (February or March) Santa Fe
Throughout the year, NMHCA offers a variety of stand-alone workshops and seminars on topics of current concern.
Information on our educational offerings is included on our website and in Bulletin announcements. Your administrator may add you to the distribution list.
What if I want to take a course not offered by NMHCA?
Courses not offered by NMHCA or not submitted for prior approval by the sponsor must be submitted for approval by the individual wanting to count them as part of the 15-hour requirement.
An application packet should be completed, accompanying documents attached and review fees submitted.
Download forms here
15-Hour Re-qualification Letter |
Individual Continuing Education Review Form |
