Message from Paula Maes, APS Board of Education President

Public educators are the most optimistic people I know. They firmly believe that every child has a right to a public education. They believe in doing whatever it takes to teach a student skills that will make him or her successful. But it’s becoming increasingly difficult for them – and us as vanguards of public education – to maintain this optimism because of funding cuts, increased costs and political agendas that fail to support students.

Funding for early childhood education, educational technology and distance learning, and professional development for teachers and principals is more critical now than ever. Meanwhile, we need continued funding for programs, instructional materials, transportation services and ever-increasing fixed costs.

I celebrate the diversity our state offers, which also means we recognize the important role charter schools have in offering unique opportunities to students and families. As a charter school authorizer, the APS Board of Education supports important amendments to the Charter School Act that serve to strengthen the educational community for New Mexico’s students and their families.

I remain optimistic despite these challenges because, you – like us – want the best for our children. We want them to succeed and to reach their potential, a potential that is nourished through quality public education by quality educators. I believe we can do this together.

Paula Maes,
President, Board of Education