Albuquerque Public Schools
Community School Leaders Build Momentum
Annual institute equips APS Community School Impact Coordinators with leadership strategies to strengthen schools, families and communities.
Community School Impact Coordinators from across Albuquerque Public Schools spent a week together at their annual Institute, engaging in professional learning centered on strengthening leadership, building momentum for change, and deepening the impact of Community Schools.
This year's Institute focused on the power of narrative and the role it plays in leading meaningful change. One definition resonated throughout the day: "Leadership is about accepting responsibility for enabling others to achieve a shared purpose in the face of uncertainty." Through reflection and collaboration, coordinators are learning how their personal stories can inspire action and create stronger connections within their school communities.
One inspiring highlight came from the partnership between Helen Cordero Primary School and Edward Gonzales Elementary, where coordinators shared how connecting their Community School Councils across feeder schools has strengthened relationships, increased family engagement, and created a greater sense of belonging for students and families as they transition between schools.
The day also included powerful moments as coordinators courageously shared their Story of Self which is the personal experiences and values that shape why they do this work. Their vulnerability reminded everyone that each person carries a unique story that influences how they lead and serve others.
As the school year begins and the daily routines return, coordinators were encouraged to pause and reflect on their own Story of Self. From that foundation grows the Story of Us and ultimately the Story of Now, a shared narrative that inspires collective action and advances a common purpose for students, families, and communities.
The Community School Impact Coordinator Institute is made possible through the partnership of Bernalillo County Community School Innovation and Strategic Partnerships, alongside Albuquerque Public Schools Integrated Supports for Learning, with facilitation from Chloe Cawthon of Brand New Fruit and Catherine Wolfe Bornhorst of Born Ingenuity. Together, they are equipping coordinators with the tools, relationships, and inspiration to lead lasting change throughout our schools and communities.
About APS Community Schools
With almost 70 Community Schools across the district, APS and the ABC Community School Partnership are building a network of schools that serve as community hubs. By weaving together rigorous classroom instruction, expanded learning opportunities, integrated support systems, and the voices of families and students in decision-making, these schools create conditions where every child can learn, grow and thrive.