APS Rising: 2025-2026 Annual Report

One of the district’s most significant accomplishments this year was strengthening consistency and alignment across the district through the APS Rising Strategic Plan.

The Strategic Plan serves as the district's roadmap for achieving the Board of Education's Goals. Over the past year, APS sharpened its focus around a set of strategic initiatives designed to improve teaching and learning, ensuring schools and departments were working toward shared priorities and measurable results.

At the elementary level, APS is strengthening implementation of Transformational Opportunity Priority Schools (TOPS), supporting innovative staffing models, expanded learning opportunities and targeted interventions to help students succeed.

At the middle school level, APS advanced the Next Education Workforce initiative, redesigning how educators collaborate to personalize learning, strengthen relationships and better meet students' individual needs.

At the high school level, APS began laying the groundwork for the Academies of Albuquerque, a districtwide redesign effort that organizes schools into smaller, career-themed learning communities. Through Freshman Academies, industry partnerships and career pathway development, APS is creating stronger connections between rigorous academics, real-world experiences and postsecondary opportunities.

APS also deepened its investment in six districtwide promising practices: Genius Hour, high-quality professional learning, transformational coaches, community school coordinators, Student Success System resource teachers and high-dosage tutoring. Together, these initiatives support stronger instruction, increased student engagement and targeted support for students who need it most.

By aligning these efforts to the Board's Goals and Guardrails, APS created greater consistency across schools, strengthened accountability and built momentum toward higher levels of student achievement.

APS continued making progress toward the Board of Education's Goals and Guardrails during the 2025-2026 school year, meeting or exceeding targets in several key areas while maintaining a clear focus on areas needing additional attention.

Early literacy remains one of APS's brightest spots. First- and second-grade students exceeded district reading targets, continuing a positive trend that is helping build a stronger foundation for future learning.

APS also met all four elementary school targets related to perseverance, self-regulation, self-efficacy and social awareness. These results suggest younger students are developing many of the skills, habits and mindsets associated with long-term success. At the secondary level, however, student survey results indicate additional work is needed to ensure students feel connected, supported and engaged in their learning.

APS remained on track in college and career readiness as more students participated in Advanced Placement coursework and engaged in career-connected learning opportunities.

These results reflect not only student effort, but also improvements in the systems that support teaching and learning. More teachers are receiving advanced training in reading instruction through LETRS, high-quality instructional materials are being used more consistently across classrooms, and school leaders are receiving additional coaching and support through regular visits from assistant superintendents.

The district also continued strengthening opportunities for student, staff, family and community voice. More Community School Council meetings took place across APS, more parents served on instructional councils, and more students participated in principal advisory groups, helping ensure a broader range of perspectives informs district and school decision-making.

While APS celebrates this progress, important work remains ahead. Improving middle school math achievement continues to be a priority. The district is also focused on strengthening students' sense of belonging and engagement in middle and high school, expanding opportunities for students to earn bilingual seals and ensuring employees have the support, resources and professional learning needed to help students succeed.

The results demonstrate meaningful progress while also providing a clear roadmap for the work still to come.

APS continued its commitment to ensuring every student has access to the support, opportunities and educational experiences needed to succeed.

Throughout the year, the district focused on strengthening outcomes for African American students and student groups identified in the Yazzie/Martinez ruling, including Native American students, English learners, students with disabilities and economically disadvantaged students.

The district continued deepening partnerships with tribal leaders, pueblos and Native communities while expanding opportunities through Indian Education programs that support student achievement, cultural identity and college and career readiness.

APS also continued efforts to better support African American students by listening to students and families, recognizing student achievements and strengthening connections with community leaders and mentors. These efforts help students see themselves reflected in their schools, build a stronger sense of belonging and understand the many possibilities available to them for college, careers and life beyond graduation.

APS also strengthened supports for newcomer and refugee students through the International High School, which provides a welcoming learning environment designed to help students build language skills, earn credits and successfully transition into life in the United States.

At the same time, APS continued efforts to increase inclusive educational opportunities for students with disabilities, helping more students learn alongside their peers in neighborhood schools while receiving the services and supports they need to succeed.

The district also supported school-based initiatives such as Words Matter, which encourages respectful dialogue, understanding and relationship-building when conflicts arise. These efforts reflect APS's belief that students learn best when they feel safe, valued and connected to their school community.

While challenges remain, APS continues working to remove barriers to learning and ensure every student has access to a high-quality educational experience, regardless of background, language, ability or circumstance.

APS continued expanding Genius Hour opportunities in elementary schools, giving more students the chance to take ownership of their learning by exploring topics, questions and projects that spark their curiosity.

Genius Hour encourages students to investigate real-world problems, pursue personal interests and develop solutions through research, creativity and collaboration. The approach helps students build critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills while fostering greater engagement in learning.

As one of the district's six promising practices, Genius Hour supports APS's commitment to deeper, personalized learning. Students are encouraged to make connections between what they are learning in the classroom and the interests, experiences and goals that make them unique.

Teachers across the district have reported high levels of student engagement as learners take a more active role in the educational process. From designing projects and conducting research to presenting their work to classmates and families, students are developing both academic skills and the confidence to share their ideas.

By expanding Genius Hour, APS is helping create learning environments where curiosity is valued, creativity is encouraged and students have meaningful opportunities to discover their passions while building the skills they will need for future success.

This year, APS expanded WEB (Where Everybody Belongs) to all middle schools, ensuring more students have support as they navigate the transition from elementary to middle school.

WEB is a nationally recognized transition program that pairs incoming sixth graders with trained eighth-grade student leaders who serve as mentors, role models and guides throughout the school year. Through orientation activities, peer connections and ongoing support, students are welcomed into their new school communities from day one.

The transition to middle school can be challenging academically, socially and emotionally. By expanding WEB districtwide, APS is helping students build confidence, develop meaningful relationships and strengthen their sense of belonging during a critical stage of their educational journey.

The expansion also supports the district's broader efforts to strengthen student engagement, connection and well-being, helping ensure every student feels seen, supported and valued as they move through APS.

APS took an important step toward transforming the high school experience by expanding Freshman Academies from three trailblazer high schools to nine high schools for the 2026-2027 school year.

Freshman Academies are the first phase of the Academies of Albuquerque, a districtwide effort to better connect students' interests, strengths and future goals to their educational experience.

The model is designed to help ninth-grade students successfully navigate the transition to high school by creating smaller learning communities where teachers work together to support a common group of students. The approach helps students build stronger relationships with peers and staff, receive more coordinated support and develop a greater sense of belonging during a critical year in their academic journey.

Lessons learned from the three trailblazer schools helped shape the expansion effort, allowing APS to refine implementation, strengthen staff training and build a foundation for future growth.

As Freshman Academies continue to expand, they will serve as the entry point to the Academies of Albuquerque, helping students explore career pathways, connect classroom learning to future opportunities and begin planning for life after high school.

Nearly 5,000 APS seniors graduated during the 2025-2026 school year, marking another year of progress for the district.

The graduation rate continued its upward trend, reflecting the hard work of students, families, educators and school leaders across Albuquerque Public Schools.

Among the year's most significant accomplishments, both Highland High School and Rio Grande High School exited school improvement status after demonstrating sustained gains in graduation rates and student achievement. Their success reflects what is possible when students receive the support, opportunities and encouragement needed to stay on track to graduate.

While APS celebrates this progress, the district remains committed to helping even more students earn a diploma and leave high school prepared for whatever path they choose next.

Community Schools continued to play an important role in supporting students and families across APS. What began with just five schools in 2007 has grown to 69 schools, making APS one of the nation's leaders in the Community Schools movement.

At APS, Community Schools are more than a program. They are an important part of the district's strategy for improving student outcomes by strengthening family engagement, connecting students to resources and building strong partnerships with community organizations.

This year, APS continued investing in Community School Impact Coordinators, one of the district's six promising practices outlined in the APS Rising Strategic Plan. Coordinators help connect families to services, build partnerships, support attendance and engagement efforts, and ensure students have access to the resources they need to succeed.

Community Schools also strengthened opportunities for family and community voice. More than 700 Community School Council meetings took place during the year, giving families, students and community members regular opportunities to share feedback, identify needs and help shape decisions at both the school and district level.

APS also expanded its Ambassador initiative, with Community School coordinators serving as both Good News Ambassadors and information conduits. Coordinators helped elevate student success stories, school events and innovative programs while also gathering meaningful feedback from families and community members. The result was stronger two-way communication and deeper connections between schools and the communities they serve.

As APS continues implementing its Board Goals and Guardrails, Community Schools remain a key strategy for helping students arrive at school ready to learn, strengthening family partnerships and ensuring every student has access to the support needed to thrive.

School safety remained a top priority for APS, and the district continued making progress through a comprehensive approach that combines prevention, intervention, mental health supports, campus security and law enforcement partnerships.

One encouraging sign is that APS saw fewer guns brought onto campuses compared with previous years. District leaders believe that increased awareness, clear consequences and continued emphasis on the "See Something, Say Something" campaign are helping students and families recognize the importance of reporting safety concerns before they become crises. APS also partnered with Crime Stoppers to launch a school-based reporting program, giving students another way to anonymously share information about potential safety threats.

APS also continued investing in multiple layers of protection. More than $60 million has been invested in campus security improvements, including secure entrances, fencing, upgraded cameras, card access systems and classroom door locks that can be secured from the inside during emergencies. Staff across the district also carry Centegix crisis alert badges, allowing them to quickly summon help from anywhere on campus.

At the same time, APS expanded efforts focused on prevention and student well-being. The district continued implementing its Culture of Care initiative, helping schools strengthen relationships, improve behavior supports and create environments where students feel safe, supported and connected. Every one of our elementary schools has a redirector – specially trained educational assistants who work with students exhibiting inappropriate behavior to help them understand why they’re acting out and change their behavior. The Integrated Support Team provides immediate assistance to students experiencing crises and connects families with resources and ongoing support.

School safety depends on more than physical security measures. It requires strong relationships, trusted adults, responsive support systems and a shared commitment from students, families, staff and community partners. APS remains committed to continually strengthening each of those layers to ensure schools remain safe places to learn, grow and succeed.

This year, APS launched the Find Your Spark campaign to help students and families better understand the many unique opportunities available across the district.

From dual language programs and International Baccalaureate schools to career pathways, fine arts, athletics, career technical education and specialized learning opportunities, APS offers a wide range of options designed to help students discover their interests and build on their strengths.

The campaign highlighted schools, programs and student success stories through videos, social media, community outreach, advertising and school events. It also introduced a new online hub that makes it easier for families to explore programs and find the educational experiences that best fit their child's interests and goals.

More than a school choice campaign, Find Your Spark reflects a broader belief that students are more engaged and successful when they can see themselves in their learning. By helping students connect their passions to future opportunities, APS is encouraging them to explore new possibilities and imagine what comes next.

The campaign will continue to evolve as APS expands opportunities for students and works to ensure every family understands the many pathways available throughout the district.

A key part of Superintendent Gabriella Durán Blakey's leadership approach is staying connected to the people APS serves every day.

Throughout the year, she regularly visited schools across the district, spending time in classrooms, meeting with students and staff, attending school performances, athletic events, celebrations and community gatherings. These visits provided opportunities to see innovative teaching and learning in action, celebrate student success and hear directly from those closest to the work.

The superintendent also maintained regular communication through five advisory councils representing students, families, teachers, principals, and business leaders. These groups provide valuable feedback, helping inform district priorities and decision-making.

Beyond APS, Dr. Durán Blakey continued strengthening partnerships with local, state and community leaders. She worked closely with the City of Albuquerque, Bernalillo County, state agencies, higher education institutions, business partners and nonprofit organizations to advance initiatives that support students and families.

She also represented APS in conversations with lawmakers both locally and at the state level, advocating for policies and resources that benefit public education. Regular collaboration with employee groups and labor partners remained a priority, helping ensure staff perspectives are considered as the district addresses challenges and opportunities.

In addition, Dr. Durán Blakey shared APS's work and vision with civic organizations, business groups and community partners throughout the year while serving on several local and statewide boards and committees.

These efforts reflect a simple belief: strong schools require strong relationships. By listening, learning and collaborating with others, APS is building the partnerships needed to support students and strengthen public education across our community.

The 2025-2026 school year brought state and national recognition to APS students, educators and schools. Here are just a few examples:

• Barcelona Elementary Principal Rae Lynn Dooley was named Educator of the Year by the Albuquerque Hispano Chamber of Commerce, recognizing her 18 years of equity-driven leadership and commitment to student success.
• Petroglyph Elementary School received an APS Turquoise Ribbon School designation after being selected for national Blue Ribbon School recognition. When the federal Blue Ribbon program was canceled before awards could be announced, APS created the Turquoise Ribbon distinction to ensure schools received recognition for earning one of education's highest honors. Blue Ribbon Schools are recognized for exceptional academic achievement and success in closing achievement gaps among student groups.
• APS was recognized as a Trusted Partner by the local construction industry for its collaboration, leadership and commitment to workforce development and career education opportunities for students.
• APS earned the New Mexico Music Education Association's Outstanding District Award, recognizing the district's long-standing commitment to music education. Two APS educators also received statewide honors for excellence in music instruction.
• APS magnet schools and educators earned national recognition at the National Magnet Schools Conference, continuing a tradition of excellence that has made APS one of the nation's leading magnet school districts.
• Inez Elementary School was named a National Magnet School of Excellence, one of the highest honors awarded by Magnet Schools of America.
• Cleveland Middle School became the first APS middle school authorized as an International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, expanding internationally recognized learning opportunities for students.
• Volcano Vista High School made state history by winning its fifth consecutive Class 5A boys basketball championship.
• Eisenhower Middle School won the state concert band championship, continuing APS's tradition of excellence in the performing arts.
• La Cueva High School student Hadas Frish won the New Mexico Poetry Out Loud championship and represented the state at the national competition in Washington, D.C.
• Several APS students were named National Merit Scholarship Winners, placing them among the highest-achieving students in the nation academically.
• More than 40 APS students earned top honors at the Educators Rising New Mexico State Conference and qualified for national competition, showcasing the next generation of educators.
• APS students earned top honors in the state Spanish Spelling Bee and Destination Imagination competition, demonstrating excellence in language, creativity and problem-solving.
• Atrisco Heritage Academy students were selected for a prestigious statewide leadership internship program, providing hands-on experience in state government and public service.
• Desert Ridge Middle School art teacher Nicole Trujillo received national recognition for excellence in arts education and her commitment to student creativity.
• Career Enrichment Center and Early College Academy celebrated milestone anniversaries while continuing to provide innovative college and career pathways for students.
• More than 400 APS graduates earned the New Mexico State Seal of Bilingualism-Biliteracy, including the recipients earning seals in Diné and Russian.

These accomplishments represent only a small sample of the outstanding work taking place across Albuquerque Public Schools. Every day, APS students and staff continue to demonstrate excellence in academics, athletics, fine arts, leadership, innovation and service.