Superintendent's News

What do you love about your job?

Since we started the week with Valentine's Day, I thought I'd pose the question while reflecting on what I love most about being your superintendent.

Admittedly, most people don't love every aspect of their job, me included. But we can all find joy in the work we do, which in turn can help improve our lives and the lives of those around us. 

There is much to love about being an educator, whatever your role. Helping our students grow intellectually, socially, and emotionally has to top the list. No matter how chaotic or tedious the task at hand, when it leads to the success and wellbeing of others, especially young people, it is worth the effort.

As educators, we foster passion, fuel curiosity, transform lives. And I'm not talking about just in the classroom. Our words, gestures, and deeds also have great power in hallways and offices, on playgrounds and courts, in emails and phone calls. Wield them well, and you can set a positive course for the future. You have to love the ability to make that kind of change!

For many of you, the day starts early and often ends late. But the work is rarely dull. Sometimes I wish the job was a little more routine because the challenges we face can be so incredibly difficult. The profession is ever-changing, and the learning curve is steep, but the sense of accomplishment at each pinnacle is rewarding.

We can't do this kind of work alone, and luckily we don't have to. We work alongside some very good people in Albuquerque Public Schools. People who care. From my decades in schools, I know, without question, that public education attracts altruistic people who desire to share their talents to create a better world. As superintendent, I love spending time with my colleagues. I also love meeting with our students, their families, our neighbors. Their diverse backgrounds, needs, and expectations lend to a global perspective.  

Together we solve problems and make decisions. Take the pandemic, for instance. Or the budget crisis or the cyberattack or inequities in education or unfinished learning. As we address each of these issues, our district becomes leaner and more efficient, and our schools provide more educational opportunities and positive outcomes for all students.

It's good to reflect on what we love about our jobs. It makes the day fulfilling, the work rewarding. As a native of this city, I love serving as the superintendent of Albuquerque Public Schools, and I love that you have given me the honor.