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You are here: APS Home → About Us → Superintendent → News from the Superintendent → News from the Superintendent: October 20, 2009

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News from the Superintendent: October 20, 2009

October 19, 2009

Good morning.

I had hoped that by now we would have a clearer idea of what action the State Legislature would have taken on the state's budget and more specifically, K-12 Public Education; I am sorry to report that I don't have a clear sense of what is going to ultimately happen. A variety of scenarios are being floated around in Santa Fe, everything from no cuts to 1.5 percent, 2 percent, and some even higher.

At one point we had hoped that we could use SB9 and HB33 monies to help cover some general operating costs; however, that would require a change in current legislation, which is off the table for now. This leaves us with an even larger hole.

Let me assure you that we are working on a number of different ways to cut our budget, should that become a reality. Let me further assure you that I will do everything within my power to preserve jobs, your salaries and your benefits. The Albuquerque Board of Education has taken a formal position that there should be no cuts to Education. To that end we are working tirelessly. Let me thank Joseph Escobedo and Art Melendres for their work on the ground in Santa Fe, they are doing a fantastic job. Let me also thank a number of staff at City Centre for their support in providing information to Joseph and Art. Most importantly, let me thank all the employees for their show of support in Santa Fe this past weekend.

We are still moving forward on beneficial programs for students. Nex+gen Academy is hosting an open house from 6-8 p.m., Tuesday, for students interested in learning about the application process. This is the new science and technology magnet school under construction on Del Norte High’s campus. Students will be blogging, twittering, texting and doing all kinds of things I don’t fully understand.

The school is already making friends in the community by forming partnerships with local businesses and other agencies. The open house will be held at the New Mexico Museum of Natural History and Science, one of its partners.

Congratulations to the Join-a-School program, celebrating its 25th anniversary this week. The program boasts more than 1,000 partnerships with local businesses and organizations today. It started with 51 back in 1984. Schools know how valuable those partnerships have been and APS is grateful for the tremendous community support.

Have a great week.

Winston Brooks
Superintendent

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