Albuquerque Public Schools
Seniors Celebrated at Rites of Passage Ceremony
Event honors Black student achievement, leadership and community impact.
Albuquerque Public Schools recently celebrated the accomplishments of graduating seniors during the annual Rites of Passage Graduation hosted by the Office of Equity and Engagement.
Held at the Berna Facio Professional Development Complex, the event brought together more than 250 students, parents, guardians, teachers, staff and community officials to recognize the achievements of students involved in Black Student Unions and APS’s African-American community.
APS Superintendent Gabriella Duran Blakey and Albuquerque District 6 City Councilor Nichole Rogers served as keynote speakers, encouraging students as they prepare for their next chapter.
A highlight of the celebration was the presentation of the Dr. Harold Bailey Award to College and Career High School student Jashya Vaughn-Littlepage. The award honors the legacy of Dr. Harold Bailey, a longtime educator, community leader and advocate for Black students in Albuquerque.
Dr. Bailey served as president of the NAACP Albuquerque Branch, directed the University of New Mexico Afro-American Studies Program and worked as an APS teacher. Throughout his life, he focused on improving opportunities for Black students and dismantling systemic barriers.
Jashya was selected for the honor because of her leadership within the Black Student Union and her dedication to serving both APS and the broader community.
The event celebrated not only academic success, but also leadership, resilience and the importance of community support as students move forward toward future opportunities.