Albuquerque Public Schools
A Quarter-Century of Heart and Hope
Seven Bar Special Education EA Elizabeth Ours receives citywide honors, a schoolwide chorus of love, and an official proclamation declaring September 10 "Elizabeth Ours Day."
The morning sun over the Seven Bar Elementary amphitheater shone on a crowd of cheering children, colorful hand-drawn signs, and one extra-special honoree. On Sept. 10, students, staff and community members gathered for a joyous celebration honoring Special Education Educational Assistant Elizabeth Ours on her 90th birthday.
With 26 years of dedicated service at Albuquerque Public Schools—25 of them spent making magic at Seven Bar—Ms. Elizabeth stands as a cornerstone of resilience, grace and steady compassion. Beyond her essential daily work in the classroom, she has personally managed a nightly reading program for years, hand-selecting books for individual students to ignite a lifelong spark for reading. Her selfless spirit shines just as brightly at home, where she raised almost all of her grandchildren on her own and recently secured a permanent home to ensure her family’s lasting security.
In recognition of her legendary commitment to Albuquerque’s children, City Councilor Dan Lewis sponsored an official proclamation declaring September 10, 2026, as "Elizabeth Ours Day."
During the outdoor celebration, as students showered her with gifts and cards, Ms. Elizabeth took a moment to share some timeless wisdom with the crowd. Wiping away tears of joy, she recalled her favorite year as a student, pointing back to her own 4th-grade teacher.
“My 4th-grade teacher showed belief in me and inspired all of the students that they can do anything,” Ms. Elizabeth shared. “Which is part of the reason why I’m here today.”
The students erupted into cheers, serenading their beloved educator with a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday." Seven Bar Elementary and all of APS extend our deepest gratitude to Ms. Elizabeth for a quarter-century of unwavering devotion. Happy 90th Birthday to a true local hero!