ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) – New Mexico’s two senators are among those pushing to protect education reforms and provisions aimed at benefiting tribes and Native American students.

Two key congressional committees are working on a final agreement that blends House and Senate versions of a bill that will update the nation’s education law.

Sens. Tom Udall and Martin Heinrich were among a group of lawmakers who sent a letter to committee leaders this week.

The lawmakers said Native American students have become some of the nation’s most disadvantaged and vulnerable children.

They say requiring consultation with tribes, states and school districts and strengthening tribal self-determination could help close the achievement gap and better prepare Native American students for college or careers.

They also called for support of those schools that teach in Native languages.