Albuquerque Public Schools
Atrisco Heritage Academy Interns Recognized for Homeless Student Advocacy
Eight students honored by state House for urging continued funding for programs that provide stability for McKinney-Vento students.
Eight current and former Atrisco Heritage Academy High School students were recognized by state lawmakers recently for advocating for students experiencing homelessness.
They are interns at the school’s Family Center, a space where students can access essential resources and support. They urged lawmakers to continue funding programs that ensure educational stability for McKinney-Vento students.
The interns recognized by the House of Representatives on Feb. 20 were:
- Bryanna Bowie
- Jade Romero
- Jacquelyn Valdez
- Sofia Villarreal
- Keylin Villa
- Brandon Gonzalez
- Valeria Gonzalez, an AHA graduate and UNM freshman
- and Andrea Villa, also an AHA graduate and UNM Freshman
The McKinney-Vento Act is a federal law designed to ensure students who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence have access to education and meaningful learning opportunities. It provides protections and resources to help students stay enrolled in school and connects them with support services. Albuquerque Public Schools currently has 2,712 McKinney-Vento students.
"Our students' advocacy efforts highlighted their hopes and dreams for their communities, emphasizing the need for additional resources—such as internships, transportation, and meaningful opportunities—to help students thrive academically,” said Cristal Wilson, director of the APS McKinney-Vento Program.