APS Statement on Situation in Afghanistan

Albuquerque Public Schools has more than 100 refugees from Afghanistan

• ترجمه اعلامیه به زبان دری (Statement Translated into Dari)
• ترجمه اعلامیه به زبان پشتو (Statement Translated into Pashto)

Dear APS Community, 

As the situation in Afghanistan is unfolding, our thoughts turn to our Afghan staff, students, and families in Albuquerque Public Schools. We can only imagine the fear and pain you must be going through since the Taliban’s takeover of your country. As one of our staff members from Afghanistan said, “It’s like we are physically here but mentally in Afghanistan.” We want you to know we see you, we care about you, and we support you.

APS has over 100 refugee students from Afghanistan, many of whom speak multiple languages such as Dari, Farsi, Pashto, Turkish, Hindi, or Urdu. Your rich linguistic and cultural heritage adds to the amazing cultural diversity already present in Albuquerque.

Some Afghan families came through the U.S. Special Immigrant Visa process because they were interpreters, translators, or otherwise assisted U.S. Armed Forces in Afghanistan. The sacrifices you have endured are extraordinary and we appreciate your service. Others came as refugees who oftentimes spent years if not decades in refugee camps in bordering countries. Some Afghan families may have come through other means. Regardless of how you came to Albuquerque, we are grateful you are here at APS. 

To our Afghan staff members, please don’t forget APS has resources through the Employee Assistance Program should you wish to use these services. 

To our teachers and staff working with Afghan youth, please stay updated on the events in Afghanistan and be aware of the emotional well-being of students. Check in with students to see how they are doing and refer them to counseling services if needed. Reach out to our Refugee & Newcomer Supports Program, where we have multilingual staff to support. Be aware of topics that may trigger students during this sensitive time. 

Please take care of yourselves and know we are here if you need support. 

Tashokor

.تشكر

Thank you