Superintendent's News

Dear APS Community,

We can't control what's happening in the nation's Capitol or the reactions of people around us. These events are adding stress to an already stressful school year. There is nothing wrong with feeling fear, anxiety, even anger. However, we can model peace and resilience for our students. We must be real and honest, but also know that they are following our cue.

As educators and parents, we know our children are watching and learning from us. Our anger becomes our students' anger, and our calm becomes their calm. No matter what the world looks like, we can model peace to them.

That doesn't mean we shouldn't talk to our students about what's going on in our nation. Keeping in mind the age of the child, we can have honest conversations at home and in classrooms when appropriate, helping students to connect their education to real life. Our teachers also will be checking on the mental and emotional well-being of students as we move through the next few weeks.

Bottom line: We want our students to feel like they have a voice, but we also want them to feel safe and comfortable.

Albuquerque Public Schools supports free speech, peaceful demonstrations, and the exchange of ideas, but we condemn acts of violence and intimidation. We will continue to lead by the values of equity and civility, and we salute those elected officials and others who stand courageously in defense of our democracy. They serve as honorable role models for our students.   

These have been trying times for our community and our country. I am blessed to serve such a compassionate school district. I care about our students and am grateful for our staff and families. Take care of yourselves and of each other. 

Respectfully,

Scott Elder, APS Interim Superintendent