News from the Superintendent: November 23, 2009

November 22, 2009

Good morning.

The APS Board of Education approved the question Friday that will appear on the ballot for the APS School Improvements Election, scheduled for Feb. 2, 2010. Voters will be asked to approve a $617 million mill levy and bond package for much-needed school construction projects—with no tax increase involved.

APS has built 11 schools over the past four years. Now that overcrowding is no longer the issue it once was, passing this bond will allow us to focus on upgrading some of our older school buildings. The average age of an APS school building is 42.5 years. We are also looking at upgrades in technology around the district. I’ll remind you again, but I encourage you to mark your calendar and get out and vote.

Congratulations to Tamara Dunham of Van Buren Middle School in receiving a 2009 Milken Educator Award. Believe me, this is a rare and prestigious recognition. In my 35 years in education, she is only the fourth teacher in a district I’ve worked in to receive this award. Ms. Dunham truly deserves the accolades she’s getting.

The APS United/United Way campaign is going into overtime. We have a great chance to exceed last year’s totals, and if you want to play a part, contact the APS Education Foundation at 881-0841 to get a pledge form. They’ll take it to you. The deadline is Dec. 10, and please remember that when you give, you help our kids toward a better education and a better life.

And while we’re on the subject, congratulations to Manzano High School, which gave more than $11,000 to the campaign this year. That’s an incredible total, and one we should celebrate. As the final totals are posted in January, the Foundation will let every school how much it gave to the campaign.

If you are in town next weekend, you might want to check out the city of Albuquerque’s 2009 ‘Twinkle Light’ Parade at 5 p.m., Nov. 28, downtown. It runs on Central from 3rd Street to the BioPark. APS marching bands, cheerleaders, mariachis, Native American dancers and an elementary jump rope team are participating. Also, you’ll see the 2009 Selfless Seniors and a few other familiar faces, like Board of Education members, our police chief and me. Thank you to Rich Ford, Target, Hastings and The Quarters for their support of this event.

Finally, I would like to wish all of you and your families a very Happy Thanksgiving. My family is coming to Albuquerque this year, and I’m always proud to show off my new community. I hope you have some time to slow down and spend some quality time with your loved ones.

Have a great week and a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

Winston Brooks
Superintendent