Albuquerque Public Schools
Honoring Service, Sacrifice, and Community This Memorial Day
In her weekly message, Superintendent Durán Blakey reflects on the shared spirit of service that connects military families, educators, and all those who dedicate their lives to supporting others.
Service takes many forms. Some people choose careers centered on caring for and supporting children and families. Others choose military service. Both require commitment, compassion, and a willingness to give of yourself for the benefit of others.
As we head into Memorial Day weekend, I find myself thinking about that shared spirit of service and how deeply connected it is to life here in Albuquerque. This is a military town and, in many ways, a city shaped by people who dedicate themselves to helping others. We are proud of the servicemen and women assigned to Kirtland Air Force Base and grateful for the sacrifices military families make on behalf of all of us. Their dedication, along with the work of so many public servants across our city, helps strengthen our community and reminds us of the importance of looking out for one another.
Growing up in Albuquerque, I was surrounded by people who dedicated their lives to serving others — military families, teachers, nurses, faith leaders, and neighbors who stepped up for one another.
That same commitment is something I still see every day across APS. We are proud to serve military-connected students and families, along with the thousands of other families who place their trust in our schools each year. I appreciate the teachers, educational assistants, principals, counselors, bus drivers, custodians, food service workers, office staff, and countless other employees who show up every day to support students and families.
Memorial Day also reminds us that service sometimes comes with profound sacrifice. For many people in Albuquerque, the men and women we honor this weekend are not distant figures from history. They are former classmates, students, neighbors, friends, parents, coaches, and loved ones whose lives left a lasting impact on the people around them.
As we spend time with family and friends this weekend at graduation celebrations, cookouts, gatherings, and other traditions that bring people together, please also take time to reflect on and appreciate those who gave their lives in service to our country and the families who continue to carry that loss.
As another school year comes to a close, I am grateful for the care and commitment APS employees continue to show students and families every day. The work you do matters, and it helps strengthen our schools and community.
I hope you have a safe, restful, and meaningful Memorial Day weekend.