Open/Switch Enrollment for APS Employees is October 1 through 16
Albuquerque Public Schools
Political Campaigning at APS
Political campaigning and sign guidelines for political candidates and their supporters.
These guidelines are intended to safeguard our students, ensure a conducive learning environment, and prevent the harassment of parents, while still providing candidates their right to campaign. The policy and guidelines are:
Frequently Asked Questions
For Candidates and Supporters
What can I distribute on campus?
Candidates and their representatives may distribute campaign materials near, but not on school property. That means that you can stand just outside the property line. A sidewalk next to a school fence, for example, would be a legitimate location for distributing campaign material, but a school parking lot would not.On Election Day, state law prohibits campaigning within 100 feet of the polling locations. State law allows candidates to place campaign signs on school property — at the precinct locations only — as long as they are more than 100 feet away from the polling location. The Election Inspectors are responsible for overseeing this rule and are very familiar with what is acceptable and what is not acceptable. APS principals and district employees will not get involved.
Where can I campaign for myself or my favorite political candidate?
You may campaign near, but not on school property. You may greet parents and employees at school ground entrances and exits but may not follow them onto school property or to the school parking lot.
What about after school hours?
These rules apply whenever school is in session or there is a school-sponsored event.
I’m a parent. Can I wear a political t-shirt when I drop my child off at school?
Citizens can wear promotional buttons and clothing supporting candidates within APS school buildings. However, they are not allowed to campaign. Meeting with a teacher, picking up or dropping off a student, etc., while wearing something supporting a candidate, is not to be interpreted as campaigning.
Where can I post signs?
Candidates may not place campaign promotional signs on any school property, except on Election Day.
Can I reserve APS facilities for my political event?
Yes. To use the online scheduling tool, visit Facility Rentals for information and availability.
For APS Employees
Can I wear my favorite candidate’s t-shirt or button to work?
Staff is permitted to wear buttons or clothing that supports a candidate while they are working or during school hours.
Can I use my APS email to promote my favorite candidate?
No. According to the Technology Acceptable Use Policy, promotion of one candidate or position over another is not allowed.
Can we post election information on school marquees?
Yes, you can put the election date and ask people to vote on a school marquee. However, you cannot tell them or suggest to them HOW to vote.
Can I have a bumper sticker on a car in a school parking lot?
Yes.
This page was last updated on:
July 16, 2010.