The new school year means lots of homework for New Mexico's children, but help is available -- and it's only a phone call away.

Dial-A-Teacher is a program available to students and parents statewide. It's a simple, free service for help with any and all homework questions.

"The way the curriculum is these days, it's very complex with a lot of jargon, and it's very difficult for parents to help their kids," said program director Kristin Johansson.

Johansson said math and science are becoming more and more difficult subjects, but with Dial-A-Teacher, students struggling or just needing a point in the right direction can call and get the help they need.

"A tutor on the other line will pick up and you can ask them all the questions you want," she said.

The program has been around since 1991 and the teachers are compensated for their time by the American Federation of Teachers' Teacher Leadership Foundation.

"It's all run by teachers," said Johansson. "It's teachers that are our union members who are dedicated to the community and helping our kids. They're the ones who make this possible."

Word of the program has quickly spread beyond New Mexico's borders.

"We've had people from colleges across the country call us and get help with their calculus homework," said Johansson. "It's been really successful."

The program starts up again after Labor Day.

Dial-A-Teacher Information

After Labor Day, call 344-3571 or 1-800-94STUDY for tutoring help. The phones will be staffed Mondays through Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

You can also email albuqtefed@questoffice.net for more information.